Every President’s Day weekend in Jim Thorpe, thousands of visitors descend on the adorable, coal town to celebrate their annual Winterfest. It’s one of the best times of year to enjoy this hidden, beautiful gem in the southern Pocono Mountains and celebrate winter. Yes, winter.

The entire town, from the residents to the shops and cafes, are all happy to join in the celebration. There’s so much to do in town, and so much to see. Park the car, make your way to the center of town and let the wintertime fun begin.

Explore by foot, carriage or train.

Start your visit at the gazebo in Josiah White Park just in front of the train station. Enjoy warm and tasty treats from local vendors and check out the iconic ice throne. Then, take in some of the live entertainment before embarking on a leisurely walk or horse-drawn carriage ride through town.

Crystal View Carriage Rides will take you on a magical tour through the quaint streets of Jim Thorpe. See all of downtown’s quintessential beauty by wagon ride. Or, hop on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a 70-minute roundtrip excursion with stunning views of the gorge and surrounding winterscape.

On Saturday, February 17th, join Stacey Valdez of Fairy Moon Yoga for the 2nd Annual Yoga class.  Then, stop by Josiah White Park for local music and live ice carving demonstrations.

Also on Sunday, enjoy more live music in Josiah White Park and the faux snow display. And don’t forget to bring the little ones by the Winter Wonderland at the Mauch Chunk Ballroom all weekend for family fun, including vendors, games, baked goods and more.

Grab a Mug and See the Sights

A great way to explore the town on foot and see many of the shops, businesses and restaurants in the main historic district along Broadway and Race streets is by taking part in the annual Mug Walk.

How it works is simple. Preorder a commemorative Winterfest Mug (which also comes with a recyclable bag from the Jim Thorpe Olive Oil Co.) and choose your route – either the Fire Trail or Ice Trail. You’ll stop in shops and restaurants and receive small treats and trinkets. This is where the bag comes in handy. While this is not a drinking/alcohol event, some stops are for 21+, so keep that in mind if you are visiting with younger children.

*Please note – The 2024 Mug Walk is currently sold out.

Incredible art, history and live music abound.

Enjoy live entertainment all throughout the festive weekend. From local brass bands to performances by nationally renowned recording artists, there’s no shortage of great music. Check out the weekend lineup at the famous Mauch Chunk Opera House, as well as other live music at spots around town.

If your artistic tastes turn more toward the visual, you have to check out the whimsical Stabin Museum. Stay for a bite or a drink at the hip Café Arielle.

Of course, if you want the full Jim Thorpe experience, you have to check out the historic sites. Take a tour of the opulent and possibly haunted Harry Packer Mansion. Stroll through the grounds and gardens and get a lovely hilltop view of downtown. You can also visit the Mauch Chunk Museum for an engaging look into the town’s storied past. And don’t leave without stopping by Saint Mark’s & Saint John’s Episcopal Church. This 19^th Century architectural gem is truly a sight to behold.

Shopping is never a bad idea.

Dodge the cold weather at Winterfest by ducking into the many shops and boutiques along Broadway. Find it all from books and records, to toys, vintage clothing, antiques and more. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, there’s even an old-fashioned candy store. Treat yourself or commemorate your visit with a souvenir.

Good Food = Good Mood

Start your day with gourmet donuts and coffee or a budget-friendly homestyle breakfast. Then, on to the walking, sightseeing and shopping. In between, you’ll need a break. Pick up a quick pint and a sandwich for lunch at one of the welcoming pubs. And after you’ve taken in all of the sights and sounds, head to one of Jim Thorpe’s acclaimed restaurants for an unforgettable dinner. Throughout the day, be on the lookout for participating restaurants with Fire and Ice themed drink and food specials.

Make your way to Jim Thorpe’s 31st Annual Winterfest Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 16-18.

Don’t miss all the family fun and festivities in one of America’s favorite small towns. Parking is available in the County Parking Lot behind the train station on Susquehanna Street. There is also limited meter parking throughout town.

Traffic entering Jim Thorpe during festival weekends can get congested at times. Be sure to plan accordingly. And if you truly want to beat the rush, maybe you should make a weekend out of it.