Two never-miss winter events occur in Rockland the weekend of Jan. 24-26. First up will be the Samoset Resort’s popular ice bar, something you’ve got to see to believe. An entire bar with tables and chairs is carved from ice and set outside the Resort’s Enoteca Lounge. Imagine sitting there in your warmest winter clothes, enjoying a hot drink while admiring the moon shining on the nearby ocean. It’s breathtaking — literally! We were there for the Samoset’s first ice bar last year which drew 1,000 customers. This year, the bar is open Jan. 17-19 and 24-25. Bargain room rates are available for Mainers on both weekends.

The latter weekend would give you a tasty opportunity to attend Rockland’s annual Pies on Parade, scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 26, when more than three dozen inns, restaurants and shops offer savory and sweet pies. A trolley will cart you from place to place if you don’t want to walk. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $10 for kids, with proceeds going to the local food bank. You’ll never get a better excuse for such gluttony!

For more information go to www.samosetresort.com or call 1-800-341-1650.

You can call 596-6611 for tickets to Pies on Parade.