Traditional Plymouth Ice Festival returns next month
Downtown Plymouth is expecting more than 100,000 guests next month when the 2026 Plymouth Ice Festival returns Friday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 1.
The traditional event attracts families, visitors and those who appreciate the rt of ice sculpture from across the state. More than 150 professionally carved sculptures will be on display in downtown Kellogg Park and on sidewalks throughout the downtown area. Nationally recognized and award-winning carvers will demonstrate their skills throughout the weekend, offering a front-row view of the intricate process involved in creating the works of art in ice.
“Every year we work to elevate this festival and create something memorable for our community,” said James Gietzen, director of the festival “The Ice Festival is more than an event—it’s a tradition that brings people together, supports our downtown businesses and showcases the incredible talent of our ice artists. We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable year.”
In addition to the frozen artworks on display, Gietzen said, this year visitors can participate in Ice Festival Bingo at participating downtown businesses for a change to win prizes. The Ice Throne, a family favorite photo opportunity, will return along with the popular family petting farm where children of all ages can experience close encounters with horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, alpacas, a calf and pony rides. Gietzen said this is one of the most popular family events particularly since the animals are domesticated, family raised and exceptionally well cared for by owners.
The historic Penn Theatre will have movies all weekend with a $5 admission charge and Crazy Craig Family Comedy Juggling Variety Show will have high energy, family friendly performances throughout the weekend in the park and throughout downtown.
The popular live carving demonstrations and competitions, which attract huge crowds will take place in Kellogg Park where carvers start with a 350 pound block of ice and create a finished sculpture in record time. As has become a tradition, the popular outdoor ice bar will be carved on the patio at E.G. Nick’s on Forest Street and nightly live music will again take place in a huge, heated tent behind the restaurant, Gietzen said.
The Hot Spot, a warming station, will again be presented by Ehlers Heating and Cooling and HomeCraft Real Estate will also host a warming station. Ehlers will offer food, drinks, face painting, vendors, and a restroom, open all hours of the festival. HomeCraft Warming Station will provide warm beverages, treats for children and a cozy indoor space, Gietzen said.
“This event is one of the biggest annual drivers of winter foot traffic,” Gietzen added. “Our downtown is filled with incredible local businesses and we’re proud that the festival helps showcase them to thousands of visitors.”
As always, admission to the festival is free although local civic groups usually charge a fee for parking which is used to fund local scholarships and public programs in the community.
“This really is a community effort and event,” Gietzen said. “We celebrate the winter season and offer families an event that showcases the real spirit of Plymouth and the surrounding area. The popularity of the festival increases every year and we try to add new attractions, bring back community favorites and feature the world-class artistry of the ice sculptors.”
