Get ready to embrace the chill in the most fun way possible.
Franklin Park Conservatory is debuting its Winter Ice Festival, and it’s shaping up to be the coolest event of the season. Running January 16 through 20, this festival has everything: live ice carving, skating, cocktails, and even a visit from some Frozen royalty.
Whether you’re looking for an adults-only night out or family-friendly winter fun, here’s why the Winter Ice Festival deserves a spot on your calendar.
Thursday Night: Cocktails, Carving, and Chill Vibes
It all kicks off with Cocktails at the Conservatory: Fire & Ice on January 16. From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., the Conservatory will transform into a glittering winter wonderland exclusively for the 21+ crowd.
You’ll get to sip on dessert wine and cocktails from local vendors while strolling through the stunning indoor exhibits and winter-lit grounds. But the highlight? A live ice-carving competition featuring the pros from Rock-on-Ice. Add in an ice-skating rink, and you’ve got the ultimate winter night out.
Fire and Ice Showdowns on Friday and Saturday
For two special evenings on January 17 and 18, the Conservatory is turning up the excitement with the Fire & Ice Special Engagement. From 5 to 9 p.m., grab your skates (or borrow some on-site) and hit the rink before settling in to watch an epic ice-carving throwdown from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Professional carvers will go head-to-head, transforming massive blocks of ice into jaw-dropping sculptures. The energy is electric, the competition is fierce, and the creations are nothing short of magical.
Tickets are required for these evenings, so make sure to snag yours early. This event is bound to sell out.
Weekend Fun for the Whole Family
The festival wraps up on January 19 and 20 with two days of family-friendly fun included with general admission.
On Saturday, catch a performance by the Frozen Sisters at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m., then stick around for a meet-and-greet with everyone’s favorite icy duo.
On Sunday and Monday, enjoy public ice skating from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s the perfect way to burn off some energy (and maybe warm up with some hot cocoa afterward). Plus, on Monday, celebrate Ohio Wildlife Day with hands-on animal crafts and a chance to meet Animal Ambassadors from the Ohio Wildlife Center at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Don’t Miss Out!
Whether you’re sipping cocktails under the twinkling lights, marveling at intricate ice sculptures, or lacing up your skates for a spin around the rink, the Winter Ice Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
For tickets and details, visit Franklin Park Conservatory’s website.
Featured image courtesy of Franklin Park Conservatory.
