Who says all mountain getaways have to be hiking boots, hot cocoa, and roaring fireplaces? Here in Estes Park, we aim to please by doing things a bit differently and you’re in for a one of a kind, thrilling surprise. Pack your sense of humor, fearless spirit, and bundle up as we get ready for the most unique festival you’ve ever heard of – ‘Frozen Dead Guy Days’!
So you can navigate the festival like a pro, below we cover:
- All about the festival and its chilling history
- Who the “The Frozen Dead Guy” is
- Frozen Dead Guy Days Field Guide
What is Frozen Dead Guy Days?
Frozen Dead Guy Days is an eccentric yet captivating annual festival held in honor of Bredo Morstoel, popularly known as “Grandpa Bredo” or “the Frozen Dead Guy”. Locals and tourists alike gather to show appreciation and celebrate in this quirky celebration of history and take part in the intriguing story.
Since 1989, Grandpa Bredo’s body, encapsulated in continuous cryogenic preservation, has served as a living testament to his Norwegian heritage and an intriguing narrative of time. His icy presence has eternally sculpted a chilling niche into Colorado’s vivacious cultural panorama, making the Frozen Dead Guy Days more than just a local event, but a vivid yearly commemoration and a notable attraction of Estes Park.
From tales that send a chill down your spine to bodies literally frozen in time, join us in welcoming the infamous, the quirky, the unforgettable, and the downright fun experience that is Frozen Dead Guy Days. Get ready for an icy wonder that promises a warm welcome.
Who is the 'Frozen Guy?'
In light-hearted lore, we know him as “Grandpa Bredo,” or “Frozen Dead Guy.” But this isn’t an urban myth or legend, he’s the real deal! He exists now as a genuine, frozen dead body, once preserved in a Tuff Shed in Nederland, Colorado, and now resting peacefully in Estes Park Colorado.
Bredo Morstoel was a Norwegian native born in 1900. His life journey took an unexpected turn when his passionate grandson, Trygve Bauge endeavored to preserve his body for eternity. After his grandfather’s death in 1989, Trygve brought Bredo’s body to the United States for the intriguing science of cryopreservation.
Trygve began his endeavor in San Leandro, California, where Bredo’s body was first stored in a state of icy animation at the Trans Time cryonics facility. His journey didn’t end there. Bredo moved again in 1993, this time to the quaint all-American town of Nederland, where Trygve and his mother planned to build their own cryonics haven.
When Trygve found himself deported for visa issues, Mother Aud held the fort, ensuring Uncle Bredo remained cool as a cucumber (quite literally) in a shack behind her house. The saga took a chilly twist when Aud was evicted for housing code violations.
Aud’s unique tale eventually caught the attention of the local residents and media, causing quite a storm. The town of Nederland responded by revising its laws to prohibit storing of non-living biological species. But owing to the media spotlight on Uncle Bredo, they made a sole exception for him. This peculiar turn of events led to Bredo being taken under the wing of local heroes such as Bo ‘The Iceman’ Shaffer and Brad Wickham who made sure that Uncle Bredo retained his icy slumber.
Despite the unusual circumstances, Uncle Bredo’s story and local enthusiasm struck a harmonious chord and has since drawn locals and tourists alike to celebrate the strange but heartwarming tale of a grandfather’s indefinite visit during the Frozen Dead Guy Days festival.
Bredo Morstoel, championed as an afterlife adventurer, has been frozen for nearly three decades. Initially, his preservation was celebrated in Nederland, Colorado due to Morstoel’s placement. This high-spirited event has found its new home and has enthusiastically relocated to Estes Park.
Why did Frozen Dead Guy Days move to Estes Park?
This necessary change got triggered after the festival outgrew its original location, drawing in 25,000 visitors in 2022 — a thrilling but overwhelming spectacle for a town whose population is just 1,500. The ensuing clean-up requirements and safety needs led to the town officials offering reluctant terms which included applying for a permit, increased fees, and the need to hire more security and contractors.
Rather than bowing to these restrictions, festival organizers made the bold decision to sell and move Frozen Dead Guy Days to Estes Park. With a population of 8,500 and proximal access to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers the necessary space and infrastructure to support this growing outdoor party.
The intention for the move is not just to house the festival, but to professionalize it and keep the party going for years to come. While some initial reactions to this location change may have resonated with disappointment, the town’s very own Stanley Hotel, one rumored to be haunted, and the inspiration for Stephen King’s iconic “The Shining,” offers its own intrigue and association with the dead that align perfectly with the eccentric vibe Frozen Dead Guy Days.
All about Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival
From March 15-17, St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the town of Estes Park transforms into a veritable wonderland for fans of the frozen. Get ready to get your chills and thrills because this festival truly has something for everyone! Be it the adrenaline pumping coffin races, festive parades, the exhilarating polar plunge or the stunning performances and events inspired by and paying homage to Grandpa Bredo, there’s no shortage of excitement. Whether you participate or merely spectate, you’re guaranteed to be immersed in a truly unique party as you take part in the living history of this unmatched celebration.
What makes this event even cooler? Adventure into the intriguing field of cryonics at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park. What is Cryonics? Cryonics occurs when rather than burying someone, the body is frozen at an extremely low temperature with the hopes that future science could potentially revive the individual. This science forms the backbone of the International Cryonics Museum, a must-see in Estes Park during your visit.
Unearth groundbreaking ventures, observe remarkable relics, and expose the frosty connection between cryonics and Grandpa Bredo Morstoel on the Frozen Dead Guy Tour or Ice House Tour. Located at the International Cryonics Museum, this tour promises a startling fusion of enigma and history. Distinguished as the setting for the chilling horror movie, The Shining, and amplified by the eerie presence of Grandpa Bredo, the atmosphere is guaranteed to serve an extra dose of wintry chill.
Schedule of Events
Join the early frozen festivities
We strongly encourage festival attendees to arrive early and truly immerse themselves in the enchanting Estes Park adventure. Prepare to dive into a thrilling spectacle with our brand-new Zombie Bar Crawl, be dazzled at the Frozen Ball Drop, and delight in the charmingly delicious Frozen Sweets Stroll – guaranteeing loads of laughter and unforgettable memories.
By arriving early, you will be able to avoid the hassle of battling peak travel times, finding parking spaces and navigating through the event. Instead, you can devote your day to savoring every unique experience the festival has to offer at your own leisurely pace. So, don’t rush – come early, and take your time to fully embrace this joyous celebration.
Your Frozen Dead Guy Days Field Guide
Navigate the festival like an expert, ensuring the best experience ever!
Sightseeing Recommendations
Explore and participate in numerous free events such as the Coffin Races, Polar Plunge, Ice Turkey Bowling, and Human Foosball to name just a few. Alcohol, food, and admission to the music tent are cost-incurring. To stay updated with the full schedule, refer to the FDGD official website. Remember to carry a camera!
Clothing Suggestions
It is advisable to dress in layers for the weather. Regular attire is acceptable and boots or comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Costumes are equally welcome with no constraints on creativity or uniqueness.
Transportation Options
Event parking will be available at the Events Complex with overflow parking at the Estes Park Visitor Center Parking Structure located at 691 N St Vrain Ave.
Shuttles are also available for transportation to, from, and in between all the chilling events around town.
View the full Estes Park parking map and Shuttle Service info here.
To avoid any parking headaches, it is suggested to keep your car parked at your lodging area and take a shuttle or bus to the event if possible. While there are a few Lyft and Uber drivers in the area- they are few in number, so be sure to book early.
Payment Preferences
Cards are accepted. However it is a mountain town and service can be limited in some locations. The ATM queues may be longer than the ones for food and beverages, so we advise having cash on hand before heading to the event. Having cash on hand is helpful for certain payments such as parking and bartender tips.
Food and Drink
A variety of local restaurants and delicious food trucks should suffice your culinary needs, but be prepared for a bit of a wait. Carry some snacks to satisfy any instantaneous hunger. Remember to carry water, although alcohol is available inside the venue. Drink responsibly and keep yourself hydrated, especially given the high altitude.
Pets at the event
While you may see the occasional pooch dressed in crossbones, unless it’s a service animal, pets are strongly discouraged due to potential altercations and crowd control issues.
Costumes, crowds, excitement, and noise levels can be very unsettling to furry friends. In the interest of everyone’s safety and comfort, it is best to leave your pet at home.
Considering Kids
It may be advisable to leave infants at home considering the challenging conditions such as navigating a stroller through the crowds and different event terrains.
While older children may also enjoy the event, adult supervision will be necessary, especially during times of larger crowds. Childcare during the event should be the parents’ decision based on their individual circumstances.
Tickets
Where to stay
This annual event is one of a kind and draws a big crowd. With daily activities that you won’t want to miss, be sure to book your rooms early.
Thaw the chill at Romantic RiverSong Inn
What better way to fully soak in the Frozen Dead Guy Days experience than by making Romantic RiverSong Bed and Breakfast your home for the duration of the festival? Our cozy lodgings are an ideal retreat for your eccentric getaway. After a day packed with frozen excitement at the festival, return to your private haven of tranquility & warmth at Romantic RiverSong Inn.
Frozen Dead Guy Days lets you embrace a part of life brimming with eccentricities, fun activities, laughs, and warm hearts amidst chill winds. So mark your calendars and come experience Estes Park becoming alive – or should we say, spiritedly undead!