Cassadaga Winter Festival A Huge Success

: The Cassadaga Winter Festival, held on Feb. 8 and 9, was declared a huge success by the Citizens for a Better Cassadaga. Submitted photos

The Cassadaga Winter Festival, held on Feb. 8 and 9, was declared a huge success by the Citizens for a Better Cassadaga. Submitted photos

CASSADAGA — The Cassadaga Winter Festival held on Feb. 8 and 9 had record attendance at every event.

The weather cooperated fully with about 8 inches of new fluffy snowfall throughout the weekend. The Frozen 50k had 69 runners with three runners taking part in all 10 loops around the Lower Lake: Milo Davis from New York City, Bradley Poole from Little Valley and Mark Desulniers from Lily Dale.

The Ice-SCREAM Dip had 10 “dippers” and at least 50 spectators.

About 40 people attended “For the Birds” presented by Melanie Smith from the Roger Tory Peterson Institute. Participants learned about Roger Tory Peterson and identified local birds with a BINGO game.

The hill at Cassadaga Country Club was covered with families sledding on Saturday afternoon. An estimated 150 people enjoyed winter’s favorite past-time with hot chocolate and cookies available in the clubhouse.

The Winter Ball, featuring Big Tone, attracted around 200 people who enjoyed complementary snacks, and dancing to oldies, classic rock, blues and some original tunes. The legion was decorated with snowflakes as the snow continued outside.

On Sunday, a pancake breakfast at Cassadaga Fire Hall was consumed by over 200 people. Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts were presenting service with smiles as the Cassadaga Food Pantry Crew and Scout parents labored in the kitchen. Later Sunday afternoon, Cassadaga Lakes Nature Park was the destination for 50 adventurers in boots, snowshoes, and cross-country skis.

A winter wonderland was found at this newly acquired Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy reserve. Participants were invited to take part in the development of the park, by signing up to volunteer or by making a donation.

Finally, a Survivors Gathering filled the Whiskey Hill Saloon to celebrate a successful Winter Festival.

The Citizens for a Better Cassadaga thanked the following: Wilson Endurance Sports, Red House for Youth, Cassadaga Fire Department, , Chautauqua County Water Emergency Team, Cassadaga Country Club, Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop 219, Cassadaga Food Pantry Crew, Lily Dale Assembly, Cassadaga Lakes Association, American Legion Post 1280, Alumni Pride Boys Basketball Boosters, Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy, the Village of Cassadaga and community volunteers.