Winter on the Green
Event offers Chili Cook-Off, carnival, more for family, friends in Frankfort.
The Winter on the Green series in Frankfort marks a milestone in 2019. The free fun that attendees have made an annual tradition is back on Saturday afternoons from Jan. 12 to Feb. 9 at Breidert Green.
“This is our 25th annual Winter on the Green program so this is an exciting time for us just being that we’ve been around for this long,” said Sue Lynchey, event coordinator for the village of Frankfort.
“It’s just a popular event. It brings something unique each and every week and brings enjoyment for all ages. It also just gives families and friends a chance to be outside and beat the winter blues,” she said.
“When things slow down in January people are looking to do some fun activities and this just gives them that fun opportunity.”
Winter on the Green kicks off with Ice Fest, which is sponsored by the village of Frankfort, on Jan. 12. A professional demonstration by Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures is at 12:30 p.m. and trolley rides are available until 2 p.m.
“We have ice sculpture displays. We have an ice sculptor and heated trolley rides through historic downtown Frankfort. We also have cookies and hot cocoa. Those are served at each and every event,” Lynchey said.
Next up is Winter Carnival, which is co-sponsored by Frankfort Park District, on Jan. 19.
“That event features music, games, crafts and a visit from Frosty the Snowman so the kids usually have a great time dancing around with Frosty,” Lynchey said.
Winter on the Green continues Jan. 26 with Winter Sports, which is cosponsored by Frankfort Lions Club.
“Families come out and enjoy ice bowling, the snow sled run and the hockey game. It’s just a great time for the entire family,” Lynchey said.
Chili Cook-Off, which is co-sponsored by the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, is next on Feb. 2. Space is limited to compete and registration is due by Jan. 23. Judges evaluate aroma, color, consistency, bite, originality, flavor and heat.
“Things get heated at the fiery competition. Everyone likes to sample the free chili. It’s a great way to warm up,” she said. The competition awards prizes for amateur, professional and overall crowd pleaser.
Winter on the Green wraps up with Valentine’s Weekend on Feb. 9 when people can donate blood beginning at 10:30 a.m. and also see a winter camp out demonstration and cobbler made in Dutch ovens.
“You just bring your Valentine’s sweetheart or whoever to taste chocolate fondue and peach cobbler cooked on-site by co-sponsors the Tinley ParkFrankfort Rotary Club and Frankfort Boy Scout Troop 270. We also have Heartland Blood Centers available for donations,” Lynchey said.
“Everything is held outside on Breidert Green whether we have snow or not. It’s just gives everybody a chance to have fun.”
“We have many great events throughout the year. We highly recommend that you come in to check them out. We have something for everyone,” she said.
“Just to see the interaction and building the relationships with community members has been fun for me.”