Saybrook Point Inn takes on the cold with its annual Fire & Ice Festival on Saturday, Jan. 16, with festivities from noon to 5 p.m. that include entertainment, free champagne and sushi tastings, music and special kids’ fun.
A fully functioning frozen bar provides the ice element, while Fresh Salt’s Fire Bar provides the flames, says Saybrook Point spokesman Saverio Mancini.
“Hundreds of winter revelers showed up for the event last year. It was a party from the minute it started,” says Mancini. “People love the chance to get outside, regardless of the weather, and have some fun. We’re expecting an even bigger crowd this year.”
Visitors can sip free samples of Perrier-Jouet and Mumm Cordon Rouge and try freshly made sushi, while watching ice carving and champagne sabre ceremony demonstrations. (Sabrage is a technique for opening a champagne bottle with a saber.) Specialty drinks and chili, chowder and sliders will be available for purchase; food and beverage tickets are $1 each.
Children’s movies and face painting take place in the Inn’s Grand Ballroom, while a strolling magician performs inside and outdoors.
Connecticut band “Straight Up,” a funk and R&B band, will keep the energy going during the event, says Mancini.
“You’ll find the Millennials out by the bar and the families in the ballroom for the kids’ activities,” says Mancini.
Most activities are free. Horse-drawn carriage rides along the point will be offered throughout the afternoon (tickets are $3). Information and to make room reservations: 800-243-0212 and saybrook.com. Find more deals at courant.com/savvyshopper.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect an increase in price for the food tickets made by Old Saybrook Point Inn.
