Kent residents gathered downtown this winter for a day of crafts, live music and other attractions as the city debuted its first “Snow Day!” event on Jan. 27.  

Attractions included cookie decorating at the Kent Health Department, putt-putt golf in Acorn Plaza and crafting pinecone gnomes at Mckay Bricker Framing. DeeAnn Pochedly, a Portage Parks volunteer, helped run the  gnome crafting event for the Snow Day.

“We are mostly fueled by volunteers; it’s a great organization,” Pochedly said.

Elegant Ice Creations brought three of its ice sculptures to display in Dan Smith Park. George Niemoeller, one of the sculptors whose work was on display, has worked at the ice sculpting company for the past 15 years. 

“That eagle that is behind you is probably my next favorite. I did it about a week ago,” Niemoller said. 

Along with ice sculptures and crafts, live music filled the streets of downtown Kent with a band called Grandpa Winnie. The band was made up of two guitarists and a drummer. The crowd roasted marshmallows and gathered at fire pits surrounding the venue.

Abigail Kress is a photographer. Contact her at [email protected].