Ithaca, NY-- Ithaca's Winter Recess teachers fest, the nation's first and only communitywide celebration of state educators, returns for its fourth season, Feb. 12-21.

More than 6,000 teachers and family members are expected to attend this winter's edition, up from 4,300 in 2009. 

Winter Recess offers teachers a chance to relax and refresh among friends in a community built on education. The event coincides with the annual Presidents Week school recess.

"The school break is shorter this year because of the academic calendar, but we don't think it will hurt attendance," said Fred Bonn, director of the Ithaca/Tompkins Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Fewer families will be traveling south for the week so we expect to see more people looking for fun, quick getaways close to home."

Winter Recess celebrates teachers with special events, activities and deals throughout the community. Last February's edition included more than 75 events and offered deals from than 100 area businesses. Most events are free and open to the public, though discount deals are restricted to teachers and their families. 

Business and organizations can participate in Winter Recess 2010 by creating a special activity, event or retail incentive for teachers during the weeklong festival. All participants are promoted on the Winter Recess website, IthacaLovesTeachers.com, and included in the printed festival program. There is no charge to participate.

To get involved contact the Ithaca/Tompkins Convention & Visitors Bureau at (607) 272-1313, or info@visitithaca.com.

2010 Highlights:

Dance troupe Galumpha
Comedy Central's Greg Behrendt
Children's classic Strega Nona live on stage
Mardi Gras on the Cayuga Wine Trail
Downtown Chili Cookoff
Lodging discounts throughout town
And much more....