Every year, the picturesque town of Estes Park, Colorado, comes alive with one of the quirkiest and most entertaining festivals in the country: the Frozen Dead Guy Days. This unique event, held in honor of a cryogenically frozen man named Grandpa Bredo, attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy a weekend filled with unusual activities, live music, and a festive atmosphere. Here’s everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind celebration.
The Story Behind the Festival
The origins of Frozen Dead Guy Days are as fascinating as the festival itself. The story begins with Bredo Morstoel, a Norwegian man who passed away in 1989. His grandson, Trygve Bauge, brought Bredo’s body to the United States and cryogenically preserved it in a Tuff Shed in Nederland, Colorado, with hopes of future reanimation. In 1994, the town discovered Grandpa Bredo’s frozen state, and despite various legal and logistical challenges, he remains cryogenically frozen to this day.
What started as a local curiosity has now evolved into an annual celebration of all things quirky and cold, with Estes Park playing host to this eccentric festival.
Festival Highlights and Activities
Frozen Dead Guy Days offers a wide array of activities that are both entertaining and bizarre. Here are some of the festival’s highlights:
1. Frozen Dead Guy Lookalike Contest
Participants dress up as Grandpa Bredo, complete with winter attire and icy accessories. The contest is judged on creativity, authenticity, and humor.
2. Coffin Races
Teams of six race custom-built coffins through an obstacle course. This event is one of the festival’s main attractions, drawing large crowds and plenty of laughter.
3. Polar Plunge
Brave souls take a dip in the freezing waters of a local pond. This chilling challenge is a test of endurance and a badge of honor for participants.
4. Ice Turkey Bowling
A fun twist on traditional bowling, where frozen turkeys serve as bowling balls, and participants aim to knock down pins made of plastic bottles.
5. Live Music and Entertainment
Multiple stages feature local and national bands, comedy acts, and other performances, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the weekend.
6. Costume Parade
Participants showcase their most creative and outlandish costumes in a parade that winds through the heart of Estes Park.
Food and Drink
No festival is complete without delicious food and beverages. Frozen Dead Guy Days features a variety of food trucks and vendors offering everything from hot cocoa and comfort food to local craft beers and specialty cocktails. Warm up with a hearty meal or toast to Grandpa Bredo with a cold brew.
Tips for Attending the Festival
- Dress Warmly: The festival takes place in early March, and the weather can be quite cold. Layer up with warm clothing, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots.
- Plan Ahead: With thousands of visitors attending, accommodations in Estes Park can fill up quickly. Book your lodging well in advance.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Between the festivities and cold weather, it’s essential to drink plenty of water and keep your energy levels up with snacks and meals.
- Bring Cash: While many vendors accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases and activities.
- Arrive Early: Popular events like the coffin races and polar plunge can draw large crowds. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot to watch the action.
Frozen Dead Guy Days is a celebration like no other, blending the bizarre, the humorous, and the festive into one unforgettable weekend. Whether you’re participating in the coffin races, taking the polar plunge, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, this festival offers a unique way to experience the charm and creativity of Estes Park. Mark your calendars, bundle up, and join in the fun at the next Frozen Dead Guy Days!
