Winterfest brings glamour, chaos, new romances, and old wounds in one of the season’s most emotional weeks on Beyond the Gates.

Dani and Vanessa’s friendship is tested as Vanessa embraces Joey’s world — only to wonder whether he’s ashamed of her when he refuses a public Winterfest date. Joey’s political games ignite a public clash with Smitty and Martin, drawing firm lines between the McBrides and the casino.

Vernon and Bill finally confront their shared history, while Ashley and Derek’s relationship reaches its painful breaking point. Dani and Bill’s renewed warmth raises eyebrows — especially for a spiraling Hayley, whose poisoning plot edges toward disaster.

Ted and Shanice share surprising sparks after getting trapped in an elevator, setting up a brewing triangle with an increasingly volatile Leslie. Meanwhile, Eva and Izaiah’s slow-burn connection deepens, pushing Kat further into self-destruction as Eva delivers a show-stopping debut at Winterfest.

Peaches’ worsening health forces unlikely alliances, the teens navigate real-life stakes and heartbreak, and Vernon sneaks off with Sharon in a moment that does not go unnoticed.

We break down every reveal, every fracture, and every icy Winterfest twist.

Plus: We rate the week on our roasted marshmallow scale!