Unfazed by the cold and snow, visitors flocked to locations across Easthampton to celebrate Winterfest — an annual tradition.
“Just getting the community together to enjoy winter is great,” said Paula Garcia of Easthampton, following a horse-drawn wagon ride through the snowy wonderland.
The activities ranged from historical demonstrations and a nature hike to indoor crafting.
“It’s nice to get the kids out when there’s not much to do otherwise,” said Caroline Hart of Longmeadow.
One popular draw — the late 19th-century to early 20th-century ice harvesting demonstration — did not occur. The weight of the freshly fallen snow on Nashawannuck Pond depressed the ice and turned it to slush, local ice harvesters said.
“It’s like corn in July,” said Dennis Picard of Westfield. “You can say that’s when it’ll be ready, but the weather is the boss.”
July weather was exactly what some preferred, and Mill 180 Park’s celebration of summer spin-off event was the place to find it.