30th Annual Winter Festival Returns To New Hope & Lambertville

The annual WinterFestival will return to New Hope and Lambertville later this month.

The 2026 event, which is organized by the nonprofit Twin Rivertown Projects Inc., raises money for several charities, including Fisherman’s Mark Social Services, the Delaware Valley Food Pantry, and the Bucks County Emergency Homeless Shelter.

“Lambertville – New Hope WinterFestival 2026 is shaping up to be another outstanding fundraising event, supporting people in need throughout our community,” said John Danaher, president of Twin Rivertown Projects Inc.

Danaher, who has co-produced the festival’s concert for 21 years, said that the volunteer-led effort is built on the idea that “collective action achieves far more than individual efforts.”

The festivities begin Friday, Jan. 30, with a performance by folk icon Tom Rush at the New Hope Winery. Rush, a Harvard-educated singer-songwriter, was a central figure in the 1960s folk revival and is credited with introducing audiences to legendary artists such as James Taylor and Joni Mitchell. Taylor told Rolling Stone that Rush was “not only one of my early heroes, but also one of my main influences.”

Rush joins a long lineage of notable performers who have played the festival, including John Oates and Micky Dolenz. The New Hope Winery, which seats 250, will offer theater and cabaret-style seating for the 8 p.m. show.

The weekend continues with two events at Triumph Brewing Company in New Hope, including the Dance Party on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and the Chili Cookoff on Sunday, Feb. 1, from noon to 3 p.m.

The cookoff features up to 30 local restaurants competing for “people’s choice” and “judge’s choice” titles.

Organizer Eric Green said the event is a highlight for the community because it combines local flavor with a charitable mission.

“The laughter, the love, and of course the incredible chili all come together to create an unforgettable event that supports our local food pantries and social services,” Green said.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can also view ice sculptures displayed at the main events and at various local businesses.

Tickets and additional information are available at winterfestival.net or by calling 267-987-7855.