Second Annual Winter Resource Expo, Frost Fest Returns in October
Contributed by Kierre Childers & Taylor Raftery
The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, in collaboration with more than a dozen local businesses and nonprofits, will host the second annual Frost Fest: Winter Resource Expo on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Palmer Train Depot.
The free event connects community members with winter programs, events, and scholarship opportunities designed to encourage outdoor recreation.
Highlights include:
● Information tables with local organizations sharing resources on winter recreation, trails, and more.
● Interactive activities for all ages.
● Gear demos on ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking.
● Door prizes and giveaways from local businesses and nonprofits.
“Winter in the Mat-Su can feel long and challenging, but it’s also a season full of opportunity,” said Taylor Raftery with the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation. “Frost Fest is about bringing people together, making sure families know what resources are available, and celebrating the strength and creativity of our community.”
Revel Treks and Tours is coordinating the event in collaboration with the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation. For the most up-to-date vendor list and event details, please visit the event page on the Revel website.
About the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation
In 2024, the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation awarded more than $450,000 in grants to nine local organizations. In addition to its grantmaking program, the foundation works with land managers, including Alaska State Parks, to apply for, manage and match federal and foundation grants. These projects leverage community donations to generate million-dollar investments in the Mat-Su, such as the Curry Ridge Connector Project and the preservation of Independence Mine State Historical Park.
To date, the foundation has invested more than $2.35 million in grants across the Mat-Su Borough. Over the next five years, the foundation plans to invest an additional $2.5 million to develop sustainable trails and regional parks.