Issue link: http://frankenmuthcvb.uberflip.com/i/1410878
10 L ike many things, the holiday season looked a little different in 2020. It became a time of transition to work on ways to elevate the Christmas Experience in our City, despite the uncertain times. Frankenmuth is known internationally as a Christmas destination, mostly due to being the home to Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, of course. And while we couldn't host the traditional Holiday Celebration, several new traditions were born and expansion plans are now underway as part of the three-year plan. The spectacular new Christmas Tree with a music and light show held nightly was a highlight of the many additions. For 2021, we are excited to announce the addition of a Frankenmuth Ice Rink. Preliminary site plans for it to be located in Zehnder Park have been supported by the Frankenmuth Planning Commission. The Frankenmuth Chamber & CVB have been working for a number of months evaluating possible locations and logistical details. It is anticipated to be setup in mid-November and run until mid-February. There will be daily hours (which are extended on the weekends), a rental skate tent, and a nominal fee to skate. Not only will it be a wonderful attraction for those that love coming to Frankenmuth during the holidays, but it offers a great new recreational opportunity for our residents to enjoy our city in the winter as well. The Chamber & CVB is also excited to be partnering with the Frankenmuth Community Foundation on their new Legacy Ball, The Dachshund Derby event, where sponsors and attendees will have the opportunity to help raise money for the rink at an interactive dog race in September. Not to worry, the dogs are not real! Sponsorships and advertising packages for the rink have been developed and will be mailed soon to local businesses. If you don't receive one and are interested in supporting this event, please email ceo@frankenmuth. org. The Legacy Ball is taking on a new form as "The Derby" event, and will continue in the coming years. The event will move back to the traditional spring timeframe with a new partner and cause each year. There are many details still being finalized, but this exciting expansion is already fulfilling its mission of helping to spread the Christmas Experience over time and space as a more responsible way to accommodate large crowds and give people ways to enjoy the experiences all season long instead of only on the busiest weekend(s) of the year. The Frankenmuth Farmers Market has made the decision to move and elevate the ChristKindlMarkt to their home base at the Farmer's Market on the north end of town. The event is expected to be bigger than ever with unique vendor structures and activities for guests and residents to enjoy. They have a great vision and expansion plans that provides yet another reason for people to enjoy Frankenmuth longer or come back more often. Much more to come as we inch closer to Christmas 2021, but planning for the season has become a year- round effort for all those involved and it is sure to be even more spectacular this coming Christmas! Christmas Experience The Plans to Expand