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Linking Wenatchee to Winterfest

January 13, 2026

Take Route 21 to Lake Chelan’s Winterfest

As winter settles in, Lake Chelan Winterfest returns this January 2026, bringing together ice, fire, music, food, and unforgettable community spirit. Whether you’re into live ice sculpting, beach bonfires, fireworks, or local wine tastings, Winterfest has something magical for everyone — and you don’t even need to drive to get there. Hop on Link Transit’s Route 21 and make the journey part of the adventure!

 What Is Lake Chelan Winterfest?

Lake Chelan Winterfest is the ultimate winter celebration in North Central Washington. Spread across two action-packed weekends in January, the festival blends ice and fire elements with live entertainment and community gatherings. From ice carving demonstrations and Washington’s largest beach bonfire to fireworks lighting up the winter night and local wine events like the Wine Walk and Bubble Brunch, this festival delivers a cool experience — literally and figuratively.

The festivities take place in downtown Chelan and Manson, offering something fun for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike. Pick up a button or ticket to enjoy special events, or grab an all-access pass to make the most of both weekends.

 Why Take the Link?

Driving to Winterfest can be challenging with winter roads and busy festival weekends. Instead, Link Transit’s Route 21 makes it easy to enjoy the festival without the stress of parking or traffic. This scenic bus route runs daily and hourly between Wenatchee and Manson, with stops at Chelan City Hall and Manson Bay Park that put you right in the heart of the festival.

Here’s what makes Route 21 a great choice:

  • Frequent departures: With buses running roughly every hour throughout the day into the evening, you can plan a flexible itinerary that fits your festival schedule.
  • Convenient stops: Route 21 runs from Wenatchee through Entiat and Chelan, ending in Manson — perfect for exploring multiple downtowns or using a Park-and-Ride.
  • Comfortable and always FREE: Sit back, enjoy the view, and skip the hassle of winter driving (and sometimes busy, icy parking lots!) on a clean, reliable Link bus.

Tips for Riding Route 21 to Winterfest

  • Plan ahead: Check the latest Route 21 schedule before you go so you know when the next bus is coming. Download the MyStop or Transit app to have a real-time schedule in your pocket.
  • Know your stops: If you’re headed straight to Winterfest activities, aim for Chelan City Hall (Johnson Ave) or Manson Bay Park — both are right around the corner from the fun.
  • Pack for winter: Even if you’re just walking a short block from the bus, layer up! Winterfest take place outdoors where it’s chilly but festive.
  • Enjoy the ride: The route traverses beautiful river and lake views!

Take the Link to Make the Most of Your Winterfest Weekend

Taking the bus means you can skip finding a parking spot. Instead, you can step right out of the doors and into everything Winterfest has to offer. Warm up with a wine tasting, watch artists transform blocks of ice into stunning figures, dance to live music, and gather around the bonfire with friends old and new. Whether it’s your first Winterfest or an annual tradition, Route 21 makes the journey part of the fun.

Ready to ride, celebrate, and make winter memories? Take the Link to Winterfest 2026!