ESTES PARK — The distinctive festival that emerged from tales of a Norwegian man’s cryogenically preserved body in a high-country Tuff-Shed is set to return this month for its second installment in Estes Park following its move from the original location in Nederland.
After the festival’s successful debut in Estes Park last spring, the organizers have gathered valuable insights and are determined to address any unforeseen issues before the upcoming event scheduled for March 14-17.
“Last year, we welcomed over 6,000 attendees, marking a remarkable turnout for the inaugural event in Estes,” mentioned Kara Franker, CEO of Visit Estes Park. “The sight of everyone arriving right when the gates opened was astonishing. While it was a fantastic sight, it did pose some challenges with queues. We have taken note of this and are introducing more entry points and streamlining the ID check process.”
In 2018, the Platte River Board of Directors introduced a Resource Diversification Policy, signaling a new direction for Platte River’s energy supply.
Franker anticipates a similar or even larger turnout this year, given the event’s extension to four days and the inclusion of the newly unveiled International Cryonics Museum at the renowned Stanley Hotel. The museum now shelters the cryogenically preserved remains of Bredo Morstoel, the grandfather of Trygve Bauge, renowned for initiating the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge at Boulder Reservoir.
Despite Morstoel’s demise in 1989, his family preserved his body with the hope of future scientific advancements that could potentially revive him or replicate his genetic makeup. Initially housed in a Tuff-Shed above Nederland with regular deliveries of dry ice, Morstoel has been transferred to a new chamber at the museum with the aid of the Alcor Life Extension Foundation based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Visitors can now observe the cryo chamber containing Morstoel or even take photographs within a similar setting.
Franker’s primary concern this year revolves around the weather conditions. While snow is predicted a few days before the event, she remains hopeful that Saturday will offer favorable weather.
The festival, known for its playful take on death’s icy grip, will kick off on Thursday, March 14, with a frozen ball drop to launch the festivities, followed by a zombie bar crawl.
Friday, March 15, will showcase an “Icebreaker” event at Bond Park in downtown Estes Park, providing a sneak peek of the festival’s attractions before paid entry. Additionally, a new Frozen Sweets Stroll along Elkhorn Avenue will tempt guests with themed treats from various shops, accessible with a complimentary punch card from the park. Franker advises advance registration to assist vendors in adequate preparation.
Friday evening’s schedule includes a “brain freeze” music event at Lonigan’s Pub, a “Weekend at Bernie’s” beach party and bowling at Bull Pin Lanes, ice-carved cocktails from Dry Land Distillers, and the initiation of psychic readings at the historic Park Theater.
The highlight of Friday is the Blue Ball, a tradition from the festival’s Nederland era. This year, a VIP package has been introduced, offering early access to the festival on Saturday, exclusive museum visits to see Grandpa Bredo, and an overnight stay at the Stanley Hotel for ticket holders.
The festival’s main ticketed event unfolds on Saturday, March 16, at the Estes Park Events Complex, described by Franker as the festival’s focal point. Multiple stages will host music and entertainment, while outside, spectators can witness the exhilarating coffin races where teams compete amidst snow, mud, and obstacles.
Saturday night will feature a “Dead Leprechaun St. Paddy’s Party” at the Bull Pin and a “Thick ‘n’ Thawed Burr-Lesque Show” at Lonigan’s.
Sunday, March 17, kicks off with a “Bands and Bloodys Brunch” at various local restaurants, followed by themed activities at pubs and a midday Polar Plunge at Coffee on the Rocks, where participants in costumes brave the frigid waters of the Big Thompson River.
To ease transportation, Visit Estes Park has partnered with local companies to provide shuttles and ride-sharing options. Those choosing to park nearby should be aware that parking proceeds will support the Estes Park High School band.
“Our goal is to prolong the tourist season and draw visitors during this period,” Franker stressed. “Traditionally, this time of year experiences a lull, and we hope this event will once again stimulate our local economy.”