The Legend of Snowmy Kromer
After a fresh snowfall, you're bound to see snowmen popping up in yards across the Northwoods. But in Minocqua, we take snowman building to a whole new level!
Standing an impressive 30 feet tall with a 16-foot waist, Snowmy Kromer is no ordinary snowman. This larger-than-life winter celebrity has become a beloved Minocqua tradition, welcoming visitors with a little extra Northwoods charm. These days, you'll find Snowmy making his seasonal appearance at Torpy Park in downtown Minocqua, where he's ready to pose for photos and spread some winter cheer.
A Snowman with a One-of-a-Kind Hat
Snowmy Kromer gets his name from the iconic Stormy Kromer cap perched atop his head. While these classic caps are a familiar sight around the Northwoods during chilly winter days, Snowmy's is anything but ordinary!
His custom-made, size 96 Stormy Kromer cap is one of only two ever created. The oversized hat was specially designed by Stormy Kromer Mercantile CEO Bob Jacquart, giving Snowmy a signature look that's as unique as he is.
A Minocqua Tradition Decades in the Making
The story of Minocqua's famous snowman dates back to the 1960s, when local residents would gather to build a giant snowman by hand in downtown Minocqua each winter. It was a community tradition that brought a little extra magic to the snowy season.
After spending several decades in hibernation, Snowmy made his grand return in 2015 outside what is now the Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau. His comeback was a fun way to celebrate the area's history, welcome winter visitors, and bring back a cherished Northwoods tradition.
And Snowmy didn't stay a local secret for long! That same year, photos of the towering snowman went viral on social media, spreading a little Minocqua winter magic around the world.
Today, Snowmy continues to be a favorite winter attraction for visitors and locals alike.
Where Can You Find Snowmy Kromer?
Snowmy has a new winter hangout! Instead of his former spot outside the Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau along Highway 51, Snowmy now makes his seasonal home at Torpy Park in downtown Minocqua.
Of course, like any true winter celebrity, Snowmy's appearances depend on Mother Nature. Building a 30-foot snowman takes plenty of snow, and some winters simply don't deliver enough of the white stuff to bring him to life.
But when the snow piles up, keep your eyes peeled! You never know when Snowmy might make his grand return.
If you're lucky enough to catch him during your winter visit, snap a photo and share it with us using #SnowmyinMinocqua!
Whether you're visiting for snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing, or simply enjoying a snowy Northwoods getaway, Snowmy Kromer is one Minocqua winter tradition worth seeing.
