People can celebrate the winter season at Mentor Chill Out on Jan. 18 at Mentor Civic Center Park The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and features a full day of activities for the whole family, according to a news release. The festivities kick off with the Half-K Donut Dash where participants must finish a donut and hot chocolate before crossing the finish line.  All participants will receive a medal. Pre-registration is recommended, the release stated. For the kids, activities will include sledding if weather permits, an all-ages outdoor ice-rink, and a 30-foot carnival slide – the Glacial Groove. Craft stations will be available for children to tap into their creativity while enjoying the sights and sounds of the winter wonderland with All About You Entertainment keeping the beat, according to the release. Artists at Elegant Ice Creations will present over a dozen ice sculptures and work throughout the day, carving intricate designs in front of festival goers. People also can take a break in the Chill Out Polar Pavilion for some treats, including hot chocolate and apple cider. Those 21 and older can enjoy shot flights and whiskey tastings featuring liquors from local distillery Seven Brothers, as well as the Chill Out’s signature Spiced Cinnamon Cider Swirl made of hot apple cider and cinnamon spiced rum, the release stated. Food trucks will be on hand to provide tasty meals for purchase throughout the day. Local chefs will also compete in the Chilly Cook Off from 1 to 2 p.m. Votes will be tallied at 2 p.m. and winners will be announced soon after with first place awards given for People’s Choice, Judge’s Choice, and Most Festive Display. This competition is open to all members of the community, including restaurants/bars, civic groups, and individuals. Space is limited to 12 participants and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Participants are asked to bring 2 to 3 gallons of chili as well as toppings, chips, and more to decorate their table in a festive atmosphere. This is an outdoor event so participants should be prepared for the weather. A canopy, table, chairs and electricity, as well as sample cups and spoons will be provided. Set up will begin at 11 a.m. and participants should be ready to serve by 12:45 p.m. A nearby drop-off point will be designated. For additional information or to register for the Chilly Cook Off, contact Dave Duricky at 440-974-5727 or [email protected]. The day will conclude with a fireworks display at 5:45 p.m. Mentor Chill Out will go on, snow or shine, and admission and most activities are free, according to the release. Mentor Civic Center Park is located at 8600 Munson Road. Learn more at www.mentorchillout.com.