When January rolls around, most lakes in Ohio go quiet. But not Buckeye Lake. Here, winter kicks into high gear with one of the biggest cold-weather celebrations in the region: Buckeye Lake Winterfest. Held every year on the last Saturday of January, this spirited tradition brings the community—and thousands of visitors—out to celebrate with fire, ice, music, and, of course, one very important fish.
Benny the Bass: The Lake’s Own Weather Predictor
At the heart of Buckeye Lake Winterfest is a unique tradition: the prediction ceremony of Benny the Bass. It all begins before sunrise at the North Shore Boat Ramp, where locals gather in the cold to witness whether Benny “takes the bait.” If he bites, spring is supposedly on the way; if not, winter stays put for six more weeks. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it sets the tone for a day full of celebration.
Over the years, Benny has become a local legend. His likeness appears on shirts, mugs, and even tattoos. People cheer, take selfies, and toast to the unofficial start of Buckeye Lake’s event season—even if there’s still snow on the ground.
An All-Day, All-Lake Party
Winterfest doesn’t stop with Benny. After the morning kickoff, the entire lake community lights up with events, food, and entertainment. Over 40 local businesses get involved, each adding their own flair to the celebration. Restaurants serve up hot drinks and comfort food, bars open early with drink specials, and musicians perform inside and out.
Art galleries and local shops participate with themed displays, live demonstrations, and pop-up sales. Street performers, costumed characters, and fire pits dot the landscape, making it feel more like a winter carnival than a sleepy lake town.
Many spots host their own mini-events throughout the day: whiskey tastings, chili cook-offs, hot toddy specials, s’mores stations, and more. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure type of day, and the best plan is no plan at all—just wander and see what the lake has to offer.
Don’t Miss the Polar Plunge
One of the boldest and most talked-about traditions of Buckeye Lake Winterfest is the Polar Plunge. It’s exactly what it sounds like—dozens of brave souls leaping into the freezing lake in the dead of winter. But this isn’t just a daredevil stunt; it’s a fun, often hilarious event for a good cause, typically supporting local charities or community initiatives.
Held at Buckeye Lake Winery or another waterfront location, the plunge attracts a mix of first-timers, seasoned jumpers, and teams dressed in full costume. Past years have seen everything from superheroes and tutu-clad teams to full-on themed group outfits. There’s often a prize or shoutout for the best-dressed plungers, adding to the playful energy of the event.
The crowd is just as entertaining as the participants—bundled in layers, cheering loudly, and huddled around fire pits with hot drinks in hand. The emcee keeps the excitement high, music blares, and the air buzzes with anticipation as each jumper takes their turn.
And the splash? Icy, unforgettable, and met with cheers from everyone watching. Whether you’re plunging for the thrill or standing on shore laughing and filming every leap, the Polar Plunge is one of Winterfest’s high points—equal parts insane and inspiring.
Fireworks in the Freezing Air
After a day filled with lakefront festivities, live music, and hot toddies, Buckeye Lake closes out Winterfest with a bang—literally. The nighttime fireworks show is one of the most magical moments of the event. As the cold air sharpens and the crowd gathers near the shoreline, bursts of light explode in the sky and shimmer across the surface of the lake, sometimes frozen and glistening beneath the night.
It’s not just the display itself that creates the magic—it’s the atmosphere. Families huddle together under blankets, couples hold hands and sip from steaming mugs, and kids point skyward with wide eyes. You’ll hear laughter, cheers, and the occasional gasp as another round of color and sound fills the air.
Despite the temperatures, the fireworks draw out the entire community for one final shared experience. It’s a fitting close to a day that brings warmth to winter, reminding everyone that even in the coldest season, Buckeye Lake knows how to light it up.
So grab your coziest coat, something warm to drink, and make your way to the water’s edge. This winter tradition is worth every shiver.
What to Know Before You Go
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Dress Warmly: You’ll be outside most of the day, so layer up. Hats, gloves, and warm boots are a must.
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Parking Can Be Tight: Arrive early if you want a close spot, or plan to walk a bit. Some areas offer shuttles, so keep an eye out.
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Book Ahead: Local accommodations fill up fast for Winterfest weekend. If you plan to stay overnight, book your rental early.
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Bring Cash: While many places take cards, pop-up vendors and tips for performers are often cash-only.
A Celebration of Cold and Community
What makes Buckeye Lake Winterfest so special isn’t just the fireworks, the fish, or the music—it’s the sense of community. Even in the coldest part of the year, this little lake town manages to come together in a big way. Locals, lake house owners, and newcomers all rub shoulders, share laughs, and celebrate the weird, wonderful magic that is winter at Buckeye Lake.
Whether you’re here for the drinks, the dive, or Benny’s big moment, one thing’s for sure: Winterfest is the warmest cold-weather event you’ll ever attend.
