Snowfest brings winter fun to Cresco

HOWARD COUNTY - Snowfest, arguably the biggest winter event of the year in the area, returned once again thanks to the hard work and creativity of the Cresco Driftrunners. While Mother Nature didn’t cooperate this year, the popular winter celebration still delivered a full weekend of fun, food, fundraising, and fellowship—proving that Snowfest is about much more than just snow.

   Snowfest took place January 22-25 but due to the lack of snowfall, the annual torchlight parade was canceled. Nearly the rest of the entire Snowfest schedule moved forward with a few modifications. Instead of snowmobiles which normally is the main focus of the event, many of the planned ride events were completed by vehicle or side-by-side, allowing participants to enjoy the routes safely while still supporting local businesses and Snowfest traditions.

   “Unfortunately, we had to cancel the torchlight parade,” said Driftrunners member Brandon Plaht. “We just couldn’t make it work this year.”

   Snowfest kicked off on Thursday, January 22, 2026, with the Vokaty Early Bird Adventure. Riders departed from Sweeney’s Lounge in Cresco and made stops in Kendallville, Burr Oak, Bluffton, and Ridgeway, officially launching the weekend’s festivities.