The 8th Annual Shorewood Chill: Date, Schedule and Things to Do

If you live in the North Shore, you know that February can be the hardest month to keep the family active. The holiday buzz is gone, but the freeze is still here. Enter the Shorewood Chill, a grassroots winter festival that turns the bitter cold into a community celebration.

Returning for its 8th year on February 7, 2026, this event is a "best-kept secret" that has grown into a signature gathering. Best of all? It aligns perfectly with families looking for budget-friendly entertainment—almost everything is free.

Here is your complete guide to navigating the ice, the s’mores, and the parking at Lake Bluff Elementary this winter.

📅 Event Essentials: The "Need to Know"

• Event: 8th Annual Shorewood Chill

• Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

• Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Location: Lake Bluff Elementary School Ice Rink (1600 E. Lake Bluff Blvd., Shorewood)

• Admission: FREE

What is it?

The Chill was started in 2018 by a group of volunteer dads known as "The Lake Bluff Ice Captains." They wanted to celebrate Shorewood's skating tradition. Today, it’s a massive block party on ice, co-organized by the Village and the Shorewood Foundation, featuring skating, music, and food.

⛸️ Activities: More Than Just Skating

While the ice rink is the centerpiece, you don't need to be an Olympic skater to have fun. The event is designed to keep kids moving and parents happy.

• Free Ice Skating & Rentals: The warming house stocks over 80 pairs of rental skates (youth and adult sizes) completely for free.

• The Bonfire Zone: Grab a stick and roast s’mores at the fire pits (ingredients provided free).

• Entertainment: Expect live music from local artists, DJs from Sound By Design, and potential appearances by Roscoe (the Milwaukee Admirals mascot).

• Off-Ice Fun: If the kids tire of skating, there are scavenger hunts, field games, and snowshoe demos (weather permitting).

Food & Warming Up

You won't go hungry, but you should come prepared.

• On-Site Food: Local vendors rotate yearly, but past favorites have included Milwaukee Brat House, Benji’s Deli, and Colectivo Coffee.

  • Note: Bring cash! Not all vendors take cards.

• The Warming House: When the typical 16°F–31°F temps bite, head into the warming house. It’s also a good spot for nursing mothers or families needing a quiet break.

Nearby Dining (Walkable):

If you want a sit-down meal before or after, Oakland Avenue is a 10-minute walk (0.5 to 1 mile) away:

• For Toddlers: Little Sprouts Play Cafe (food + indoor play).

• For Comfort Food: Culver’s or Crave Cafe (burgers/fries).

• For Bakery: North Shore Boulangerie.

Parent Tips for Success

1. Parking Strategy

Lake Bluff is in a residential neighborhood. Street parking is free on weekends, but it fills up fast.

• Best Bet: Arrive right at 12:00 PM.

• Backup Lots: Village lots are free and walkable. Try the River Park Lot (3501 N Oakland) or Oakland North Lot (4450 N Oakland).

2. Gear Up

"There is no bad weather, only bad clothing."

• Kids: Snow pants are non-negotiable (they will sit on the ice).

• Feet: Thick wool socks are a must for skates. Consider packing toe warmers.

• Backpack: Bring water, extra gloves, and a bag for wet gear afterward.

3. Weather Contingencies

The Ice Captains are pros at pivoting. In 2025, warm weather melted the ice, but the party continued with field games.

• Check Before You Go: Call 414-963-6913, ext. 3 or check the @LakeBluffIceRink Facebook page for real-time updates.

Final Thoughts

The Shorewood Chill is unique because it isn't run by a big event company—it’s run by neighbors. It captures that specific "North Shore" spirit where community effort creates something magical for the kids.

Mark your calendar for February 7, 2026. Bundle up, bring some cash for a bratwurst, and enjoy one of the best free family days of the winter.