For one weekend every February, the Carlisle Ice Art Fest makes Downtown Carlisle the coolest place to be in the Cumberland Valley. Discover everything you need to know to enjoy this community celebration without being left in the cold.
What is Carlisle Ice Art Fest?
Now in its 10th year, the Carlisle Ice Art Fest brings over 100 dazzling ice sculptures to town in an icy spectacle that celebrates local businesses and gives the community a reason to enjoy the winter weather. With live ice carving demonstrations, an ice bar, special merchant events, and horse-drawn carriage rides, this winter festival is fun for the whole family. Sculptures are uncovered at 5 pm on Friday, and festivities continue until 3 pm on Sunday.
Where to Park
The Carlisle Ice Art Fest takes place in Downtown Carlisle. Many sculptures are located in front of businesses along both High and Hannover Streets. Several sculptures can also be found in the Square and at the Cumberland Historical Society Pocket Park, and there is more to see at smaller businesses on several side streets.
Street parking throughout the downtown area is free during the festival. Municipal lots offer free weekend parking. You may also park in the cash-only garage on 35 W Pomfret Street, which costs $0.75 per hour, with a $6 maximum.
Locations
- Pomfret Street Lot, located at 67 W. Pomfret Street
- E. Louther Street North, located at 51 E. Louther Street
- E. Louther Street South, located at 36 E. Louther Street
- Pomfret Street Parking Garage, located at 35 W. Pomfret Street
Where to Eat
Downtown Carlisle features more than two dozen delicious restaurants serving cuisines from around the world. Many offer food and drink specials, specialty cocktails, live music and extended hours during the festival.
Getting a drink from the ice bar at 1794 The Whiskey Rebellion is a can’t-miss part of every Ice Fest. Then head inside for elevated colonial-style food and more than 50 types of whiskey.
Step out of the cold and enjoy lunch or dinner at spots such as Market Cross Pub and Brewery, Pitt Street Station, George's Pizza, Cafe Bruges, and more. For some of the best wings in town, head to North Hanover Grill. If you’re looking for Sunday brunch, you can’t go wrong at Hungry Run Distillery.
Best Photo Spots
No visit to the Carlisle Ice Art Fest would be complete without a photo on the iconic UPMC Ice Throne in the Square.
You can’t go wrong taking photos with any of the other 100+ ice sculptures. Each business sponsor had input into the subject of their sculpture and no two are alike, making this ice art a true reflection of our community. You’ll find mythical creatures, wild animals, pop culture figures, logos, winter scenes and so much more. Some sculptures even have face holes to help you take the perfect picture.
If you’re in a hurry and want to maximize your photo time, several sculptures can be found in proximity in the Pocket Park and the Square.
For a different vantage point (and a cool selfie), take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the festival.
NOTE: A detailed map will be posted closer to the date of the event.
More Can’t-Miss Activities
The Carlisle Ice Art Festival kicks off at 5 pm Friday with an unveiling ceremony. See all the sculptures before they begin to melt!
Live ice carving demonstrations take place at 11 am and 1 pm on Saturday at the Old Courthouse. Watch in awe as a block of ice becomes a masterpiece.
Every year, Marjorie’s Gems and Jewelry raffles off a diamond ring in their Diamond Dig. Stop by the shop early to get a ticket before they’re gone, and come back on Sunday for the big drawing.
Final Reminders
Be sure to bundle up so you can fully enjoy the festival! While there are plenty of merchants who’d love to have you step out of the cold, expect to spend lots of time outside. Check the weather in advance and bring a hat and gloves so you don’t turn into an icicle yourself while viewing the ice sculptures.
Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip to Carlisle
If you’re new to the Cumberland Valley, we’ve put together an itinerary for a weekend getaway to the Ice Art Fest, complete with lodging and dining recommendations. We also have information on Carlisle shops you can visit during the festival, which sell everything from antiques to art to apparel, plus other things to do in this historic small town.
