Shellharbour Winter Solstice, including ice skating, will be held at Shell Cove. Photo: Supplied.
A mini ice skating rink backdropped by Shellharbour Marina will be the centrepiece for transforming Shell Cove into a winter wonderland for the free Shellharbour Winter Solstice event from 20 to 22 June.
Supporting the three days of ice skating festivities will be a Friday night Eats and Beats event, Saturday live music, and even a festival just for dogs on Sunday.
Frasers Property Australia development director Mat Gulliver said the winter solstice weekend, which marked the shortest day of the year, would be a fun-filled, family celebration to encourage people to get out and enjoy The Waterfront, Shell Cove and what it had to offer residents, visitors – and their dogs.
Mat said Frasers Property and Shellharbour City Council were thrilled to host the winter festival, especially bringing the mini ice skating rink which would offer a new and unique experience as it operated throughout the weekend.
“The Waterfront, Shell Cove is becoming the focal point for regional celebrations it was always intended to be,” he said.
“With the backdrop of the marina, boardwalk, children’s play beach, water features, tavern, restaurants and other retail amenities, it’s a magical place for the community to gather for events.
“We hope everyone enjoys the festivities.”
It follows on from its most recent celebrations earlier this month of hosting KidsFest Shellharbour, which featured a lantern-making workshop and a lantern parade along the waterfront.
Mat said among the celebrations this weekend would be Woofstock on 22 June to allow those in the community to bring along their furry friends for activities and to tap into Illawarra pet-friendly services.
He said it would involve a morning of play and pampering for the furry and fabulous, featuring a variety of pet-specific businesses, services, and suppliers specialising in grooming, dog training, pet health and fashion.
There will also be a chance for photos, games, and prizes for best dressed dog.
While all The Waterfront, Shell Cove winter solstice activities are free, bookings are required for the 45-minute sessions for the ice skating rink.
Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver prior to the session and if children need assistance, parents or guardians must purchase a ticket and wear skates to enter the activation.
Double runners (skates) are available for toddlers but enclosed shoes must be worn with these and all skaters must bring their own socks.
Shellharbour Winter Solstice will be held from 20 to 22 June at The Waterfront, Shell Cove. Woofstock will be held Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm, and Eats + Beats will be held Friday afternoon from 4 pm with food, live music and entertainment.
The mini ice skating rink will operate Friday from 3 to 8:45 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 7:45 pm, and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Book free tickets for 45-minute sessions.
