Hundreds attended last year's WinterFest. See more photos here.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — WinterFest returns this Saturday with cool activities and hot chowder.

The 16th annual festival will be held Feb. 23 from 10 to 3 in and around the downtown and along the north side of Main Street. Organizers say the street will be turned into a "winter wonderland" this year with snow, ice sculpting and eating.

"WinterFest is adding a couple of new twists this year," said Veronica Bosley, director of tourism and community Events. "We are shutting down the north side of Main Street and city crews are trucking in snow to make an activity area right on the street. We are also hosting a community campfire, where people will be able to stop in and warm up, and maybe even roast a marshmallow or two."

(The recent rain and threat of a snowstorm on Saturday night has canceled plans to bring snow to the Main Street. It was a great idea, maybe next year?)

Large blocks of ice will be delivered early in the morning to various downtown locations and people will be able to watch throughout the day as talented artists and business owners transform the frozen water into unique pieces of art.

The WinterFest Chowder Competition is one of the staples of this winter celebration. From noon to 2, the public is invited to sample the cream of the chowder crop as area restaurants compete for the title of Best Chowder in the Berkshires.

A panel of local "celebrity" judges (including again a representative from iBerkshires) will choose their favorite and, of course, participants are welcome to vote for their preferred chowders to decide the People's Choice Award.

WinterFest offers activities for all ages. Hoosac Bank will run horse-drawn wagon rides downtown from 1 to 3 , and the First Baptist Church will have hot chocolate and indoor children’s activities. Local Girl Scout Troops will also be selling cookies.
 
The festival wraps up with a free skating dance party at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink from 7 to 9 p.m. with a DJ, food, fun and more.

More events and activities are still being added; maps and schedules will be available the day of the event. For more information, contact Bosley at tourism@northadams-ma.gov or 413-664-6180.
 
WinterFest is sponsored by Adams Community Bank and Berkshire Bank.