Ice Jam 2014 will feature daylong entertainment to support the annual festival that includes a run and community-wide celebration. The Johnny Miles Festival pays tribute to the athletic feats of the famous runner and former resident of Sydney Mines.

“We very much look forward to seeing the individuals in the community and surrounding communities and anybody visiting the area to join us,” said Kim Rideout, the festival co-ordinator.

“This is an event that is meant to be a wonderful time for everybody to beat the winter blues.”

Ice Jam features 10 local acts and 10 consecutive hours of entertainment, beginning at 2 p.m. with the band Driven and concluding at midnight when Lit Up leaves the stage.

Rideout said each of the artists that takes the stage has donated their time and talents to the fundraiser.

“They realize the importance the festival offers to the community in the summer and it is certainly an opportunity as well for people to come out and hear them.”

Daylong activities for the 19-and-older event also include door prizes, a silent auction and food.

Ice Jam joins the annual haunted house in October as the other major fundraiser for the festival.

In 2013, A Nightmare on Regent Street at the Exhibition Grounds in North Sydney attracted an estimated 900 visitors.

Rideout said the festival receives some government funding and community donations but it would be tough to host it annually without the large amount of support the community gives to both fundraising events.

“In exchange for the community’s support, the festival society offers them entertainment events during the year.”

Rideout noted that Ice Jam will also be listed on the event schedule for celebrations to mark the 125th anniversary of the incorporation of Sydney Mines.

“It is the first one celebrated so far this year,” she said. “There will be more news on that as plans continue to grow from the remainder of the year.”