The origins of SnowFest date back to 1936. The entire nation was caught in a record-breaking heat wave. Construction workers at a new park in Two Rivers were digging in a pile of dirt and discovered buried snow. A HUGE PILE OF SNOW! The Associated Press heard about it and sent the story across the nation. Two Rivers was officially the “Coolest Spot in Wisconsin.” City leaders decided to promote this historic event, and in July of 1937, the first Two Rivers SnowFest was celebrated.

Various groups including the Lions, Optimists, Kiwanis, and finally the Jaycees, helped to make the festival a reality. For many years a Snow Queen was crowned.

 Below is Snow Queen Lorraine Luebke in a photo submitted by Pearl Koch.

The city came alive with signs and pins to be worn and sold.

Courtesy Jennifer Ann/Friends of Two Rivers SnowFest

Courtesy Shane Reno/Friends of Two Rivers SnowFest

It was also a time to celebrate with bands, parades, and carnivals. Oftentimes, children participated in the parades and girls dreamed of being future Snow Queens.

Photo courtesy of Tammy Marie

SnowFest was an integral part of Two Rivers history for most of the years through the 1990s, at which time it faded away.

In 2018, The Friends of Two Rivers SnowFest, led by brothers, Tony and Jeff Sachse, was formed with the intent to bring SnowFest back to Two Rivers after a long hiatus of 21 years. The goal was to improve the quality of life in Two Rivers and the surrounding area, while also supporting other local service organizations.

Many adults and their families remember the event and have been supporters of its return, and we’ve enjoyed introducing it to new generations as well. Through a variety of music, kid’s entertainment, games, food and drink, inflatables, parade and vendor/crafters fair, we are working to make SnowFest a truly family-friendly event for all ages to enjoy.