Colorado’s Quirkiest Festival Kicks Off Friday in Nederland

Every year in March, frostifarians from across the country flock to the tiny mountain town of Nederland, Colorado to be a part of the legendary Frozen Dead Guy Days – a quirky, three-day festival featuring live music from over twenty different bands, local beer and food, and tons of free-to-watch events. The frost-themed fest pays homage to the Frozen Dead Guy himself, Grandpa Bredo Morstøl, whose body was preserved by his grandson after his 1989 death, and now hangs suspended over dry ice in a garden shed, high in the hills above the town. Long story, read it here. So, how exactly does Nederland keep the spirit of everyone's favorite frozen dead guy alive?

The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 9, with a night of frozen pageantry to follow. Put on your snazziest snow attire and make your way down the carpet into the Blue Ball where you can celebrate with spirits at the ice bar, a Grandpa Bredo look-alike contest, live music, and take in the crowning of the Ice Queen. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Nederland becomes alive again on Saturday with Grandpa's Mall Crawl, the costumed Polar Plunge, and at noon, First Street will fill with spectators, as the Parade of Hearses proceed through the heart of town. Coffin racing begins at 2 p.m.

There's more wintry fun to be had on Sunday, as festival goers can take part in cold-themed competitions, such as Snowy Human Foosball. Also, be sure to check out the ice carving station, where artists will be creating intricate sculptures out of giant blocks of ice. In addition to everything mentioned above, on Saturday and Sunday, there will be Brain Freeze contests, Ice Turkey Bowling, frozen t-shirt contests, The Newly Dead Game, pancake breakfasts, and showings of a documentary about the one and only, Grandpa Bredo too.  As a rotation of local bands take the stage during the weekend, chow down on crispy bacon and get refreshed with craft beer and bourbon samples being served up at the The Bacon, Bourbon and Brews Tent. Don't forget to stop by Grandpa's Gift Shop where you can pick up a souvenir to remember your unique experience.