We are smack bang in the middle of winter and spring is showing no signs of being just around the corner. I am definitely a summer person who would gladly hibernate until the cold weather passes. For those of you who prefer to channel your inner Jack Frost, check out
Springvale's annual Snow Fest, held this year on Sunday 28th July on Balmoral Avenue in Springvale from noon until 7pm.
Every year Springvale is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with real snow all the way from Mount Buller. Food stalls featuring cuisine from around the world are a highlight of the event and reflect the diversity of Springvale's communities. There will be activities for the kids, carnival rides, music and performances, and the event will end with a bang in the form of a dazzling fireworks display.

Who doesn't love snow play?
Family fun is the order of the day at this festival. Children can have fun playing in one of the two snow areas which will earn you points in the parenting department. They will also be able to watch live ice sculpting and have a photoshoot with real husky dogs. Snow Princesses are available for meet and greet sessions and be sure to check out the Dreaming Space Snow Dome which will play host to a variety of shows and workshops. The Spectacular Fire Show Duo (5.30pm) sounds like it's one not to miss, as do the Magic Show (1.15pm) and the Funky Monkey Family Band (3.45pm). Roving performers will keep everyone entertained including Sunny the Snow Patrolman, Rollerskating Snow Flake and Frozen Silt Walker. There will also be a line up of local performing groups on the main stage. For the full program of events,
click here.

Be entertained by community groups on the main stage
Entry to the festival is free although some activities may incur a small cost. The carnival rides range from $2 to $6 per ticket and don't forget your dinner money; there's a huge range of vendors including Street Eats, Tasti Sweet Corn, Thi Chien Dang, Twista Bros and Twisty Taters. With that said I might just be persuaded to don my coat and head out into the snow.