News

8th Annual Ice Art Fest - February 2-4, 2024!
Tuesday, January 9, 2024 by Phil George

The 8th Annual Ice Art Fest, hosted by the Downtown Carlisle Association and sponsored by UPMC, will feature more sculptures than ever before. The coolest event of the year will take place February 2-3-4. A ribbon cutting ceremony in Veteran’s Courtyard will kick-off the event Friday, February 2 at 5pm. UPMC’s royal Ice Throne will be unveiled, along with more than 120 other unique sculptures throughout historic downtown Carlisle.

After the ceremony, guests can enjoy libations at the illustrious Ice Bar at the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion, or stroll the streets to see all the statuaries. Many downtown merchants will be offering extended hours with special activities, live music and much more. Photo opportunities can be found along the streets as well as in the pocket park of the Cumberland County Historical Society, between High and Pitt streets.

A live ice sculpture carving, sponsored by Members 1st, will take place on the town square on Saturday at 11am, in front of the old courthouse. And, don’t miss the opportunity to win a beautiful diamond ring, courtesy of Marjorie’s Gems and Jewelry, at 44 South Hanover Street. One hundred tickets will be sold at $20 each for their annual Diamond Dig. Chances to win a one carat total weight diamond ring, with a retail value of $2000, as well as other prizes, will go on sale Friday, February 2, and the winners will be chosen Sunday afternoon.

Benchfield Farms will be returning to offer horse and carriage rides throughout the weekend. Reservations are recommended but not required. To reserve your date and time, contact Traci at 717-448-8464 or email [email protected].

The Ice Art Fest couldn’t happen without the support of our generous sponsors: UPMC, M&T Bank, Members 1st FCU, the Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau, Fraternal Order of the Eagles #1299, Carlisle Moose Lodge 761, Koala Insulation of Central PA and all the other businesses that purchased blocks of ice this year.