American Bus Association Names Zehnder's Snowfest One of North America's 100 Best Events for 2012

FRANKENMUTH, MI--(Marketwire - Oct 14, 2011) - Zehnder's Snowfest, the popular Michigan event that draws more than 200,000 visitors, has been named as one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2012 by the American Bus Association (ABA). Zehnder's Snowfest is included in the ABA Top 100 list that has been published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine.

ABA's Top 100 Events is judged by tourism professionals who review hundreds of U.S. and Canadian events nominated by state and provincial tourism offices and visitors bureaus. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria.

"This marks the second time that Snowfest has been named in the ABA top 100 list and we are just as proud and pleased as the first time, " said Zehnder's of Frankenmuth CEO and Chairman Al Zehnder. "Snowfest has not only become a major crowd pleaser for both groups and families, it has been a wonderful economic lift for the entire city of Frankenmuth." According to studies made by The George Washington University and Dunham Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from $5,000 to $11,000 in a local destination's economy with money spent on lodging, meals, shopping, souvenirs, taxes and other travel expenditures.

With the release of the American Bus Association's 2012 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA celebrates 30 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motor coach operators and the general public.

Frankenmuth is considered one of Michigan's top tourism destinations with its Bavarian theme and deep-rooted German heritage that is reflected in Main Street shops and restaurants. Visitors can mark their calendar for January 25-30, 2012 for the 21^st annual Zehnder's Snowfest, filled with international, national and statewide snow and ice sculpting competitions, family entertainment and special activities for kids.

For information on Snowfest events go to www.zehnders.com. Lodging packages are available at Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark located just one mile from downtown Frankenmuth and Snowfest activities. The award-winning Zehnder's Restaurant, known for its family-style chicken dinners, will be open during the entire event. For information on Zehnder's Restaurant, Z's Bakery, and Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark, call 800-863-7999