Additional Information

If the weather is challenging, WinteRush may be canceled. You may call the Recreation Hotline/Cancellation line at 207/756-8130 (a pre-recorded message will state if the festival – Downtown Showdown or WinteRush, has been canceled).

How do I get to the major locations?

Friday, February 11 – Downtown Showdown at Monument Square. Monument Square is located in the middle of downtown Portland, at intersections of Preble Street, Congress Street, Elm Street, Federal Street Ext.

Saturday, February 12 – WinteRush at Deering Oaks Park. Deering Oaks is a large park and is bordered by the following streets: State Street Ext., Park Avenue, Deering Avenue. From the turnpike (295), use exit 6A to gain access to State Street Ext.

Where can I park?

• For the Downtown Showdown, metered street parking can be found along a number of streets in downtown Portland. You can also park your car at one of the many parking garages located downtown. For a detailed list of parking garages and times of operation, visit the City of Portland’s website at http://www.portlandmaine.gov/parking/parking.asp#.
• For WinteRush at Deering Oaks, on-street parking is available along Deering Avenue, Park Avenue, State Street Ext., Marginal Way and near the University of Southern Maine.
• PLEASE NOTE that Deering Oaks Park itself, will be closed to vehicular traffic.

Is public transportation available to the event venues?

• The METRO bus service offers public transportation within the Greater Portland area. For more information on routes and fees, visit www.gpmetrobus.com.

Where are public restrooms?

• Public restrooms will be available at Monument Square area (for Downtown Showdown) and the Castle at Deering Oaks (for WinteRush).

Where can I stay in Portland if I am coming from out of town?

• There are a number of local hotels within walking distance of Deering Oaks Park. To get more information, got to www.visitportland.com.

Are there places to warm up or explore outside of WinteRush?

• Downtown Portland is filled with fun shops and restaurants for visitors looking to warm up, enjoy a hot beverage or explore the latest fare at one of the Old Port’s boutiques. The Portland Public Library and the Portland Museum of Art will also be open during the day for people looking to get out of the cold. For more information on what is available in the downtown, visit www.portlandmaine.com.

Will there be food?

At the Downtown Showdown, cafes and restaurants at Monument Square will be open. At WinteRush activities at Deering Oaks, hot cocoa and cider will be available at the Park.

Visitors can also enjoy the many restaurants in Downtown Portland. For more information about fun places to grab a bite, visit www.portlandmaine.com.

Are these events free?

• All these events and activities are open to the public and all are free of charge for spectators. Competitive events require a registration fee to participate (Downtown Showdown, PolarBear 5K Race, Freezin' for a Reason). See the schedule for Registration and Fee requirements.