25 Tips to Survive Snowfest
Zehnder’s Snowfest is celebrating its 34th year of winter fun in Frankenmuth, January 28th – February 1st, 2026.
It's time to shake that cabin fever and experience the fresh outdoors during Zehnder's magical Snowfest. The art of snow and ice carving is on display throughout Frankenmuth, dressing the town in frosted embellishments; and you are invited to join in the frozen fun.
Here is a list of 25 tips that will help as you attend Snowfest and make memories that will last a lifetime!
1. Try to arrive before 11 AM to find the best parking on the weekend and plan your route and desired parking before you leave.
2. Parking areas and alternate routes for Northbound 1-75 travelers should take Exit 136, go east past the first light to Dixie Highway, then continue to Dehmel Rd and turn left. Follow Dehmel Rd to Curtis Rd; turn right on Curtis Rd. Follow Curtis Rd to Flint St, then turn left and park at the Fortress Golf Course parking lot or the Boy Scout building lot.
Southbound 1-75 travelers should take Exit 144A (Dixie Highway) to Junction Rd or Curtis Rd. Turn left on either and follow eastward to Frankenmuth. Or, take M-46 East to M-83 South to Frankenmuth.
3. Shuttle transportation into town is available at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland West Entrance on Saturday (January 31st) starting at 11 AM and Sunday (February 1st) starting at 12 PM. Shuttle transportation is also available from Birch Run hotels to Flint St. near the Holiday Inn Express in Frankenmuth on Friday (January 30th) and Saturday (January 31st). For complete details, contact the Birch Run Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce.
4. The largest parking lots are available at the Frankenmuth River Place Shops, Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, and Heritage Park.
5. Make your dining reservations now! Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth does take dining reservations based on availability. You can make yours today by calling (800) 863-7999.
6. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance from Zehnder's and all of the activities going on for Snowfest. Across the street is the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, which also houses Michigan on Main Bar and Grill. Moving north on Main Street, you will find places like Tiffany's, Prost Wine Bar and Charcuterie, T.Dubs Pizzeria & Pub, and Frankenmuth Brewery. Make sure to check in with each restaurant for table availability.
7. There are sculptures all over town! Even heading up towards the north side of town will have sculptures on display. So, make sure to check out the shops all over Frankenmuth, and you might even find a keepsake souvenir to take home!
8. A great place to begin your tour of the snow sculptures (and possibly your Frankenmuth shopping spree) is at Frankenmuth River Place Shops, with the children's snow sculptures and the high school snow sculptures. Zehnder’s Restaurant and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant will also feature unique carvings and sculptures outside.
9. Before strolling through town, pick up your favorite snacks and treats from local eateries and shops. Both Zehnder's of Frankenmuth and Bavarian Inn Restaurant have markets beneath them with treats, drinks, and more.
10. There are plenty of other places to find a quick snack, too. Zac and Mac's Chocolate Haus, Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen, and Frankenmuth Taffy Kitchen are perfect spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. For more savory options, step into the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus, Kern's Sausages, or Willi's Smokehaus & Deli for a wide range of options.
11. If you love sweets, then come out on Wednesday, January 28th, for the “ABC” Baking Contest featuring recipes from Michigan Sugar in three categories: Apple Delights, Brownie Bonanza, and Cupcake Extravaganza.
12. Take a stroll over to the Professional Ice Exhibition located behind Tiffany's and Rau's Country Store, where you can watch a talented team of ice carvers work on creating a multi-block ice display.
13. If you are a beer lover, stop over to the Tap Room at Zehnder's, where specialty beers are on tap sponsored by J.P. O'Sullivan.
14. There are several different things to do throughout the festival. Many activities at Snowfest are absolutely free, including the Petting Zoo and Musical Carousel Rides.
15. Other activities are offered for a nominal fee, including pony rides and an entrance fee to the warming tent on Friday and Saturday after 6 PM. Children 12 and under have free access.
16. The warming tent is actually heated! Many first-timers show up at the tent ready to brave drafty walls and cold spots. Feel free to shed your coat and dance the night away with various musical entertainment. Keep your group warm with light refreshments and entertainment throughout the week!
17. Don’t forget to take a lap around the Frankenmuth Ice Rink! Located in Zehnder Park, this winter attraction will be open throughout the festival week. And a special thanks to partners such as Huntington National Bank.
18. There will be ice block carvings throughout town on display from Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland all the way to the north end of town by Huntington National Bank. Make sure to take a walk or drive and check them out.
19. On Saturday, the festivities end with a bang! Watch the Annual Fireworks Display from behind Zehnder’s.
20. Bring your camera for a chance to win! Each year, Zehnder’s hosts a Snowfest Photo Impressions contest. Upload your favorite festival photo to their Facebook contest page for your chance to win great prizes! Make sure to “Like” Zehnder’s Snowfest Facebook page, or follow them on X to get the latest updates and photos live from the festival!
21. Also, don’t forget to cheer on your favorite carvers and vote for your favorite sculptures! Public voting begins Friday, January 30th.
22. Those who want a leisurely stroll through the festival without the crowds should visit on Sunday, February 1st, in the evening, or Monday, February 2nd, 2026.
23. If snow and cold weather aren’t your thing, remember you can always come and visit many different shops, restaurants, and even the World's Largest Christmas store at Bronner’s CHRSITmas Wonderland while the rest of your party is walking around in the cold. Remember to stop by the Frankenmuth Visitor Center beforehand and pick up a 2026 Coupon Book, featuring deals and discounts at local stores, restaurants, and more!
24. Make sure you check out the Frankenmuth River Place Shops for the Shorty Creek Sled Dogs Snowfest Demonstrations. These take place on Friday, January 30th, through Sunday, February 1st at 1 PM.
25. For a festival map and a complete schedule of events, visit https://www.zehnders.com/snowfest/. *All outdoor activities are subject to change based on weather conditions*
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