NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Maggie Valley Ice Festival, an absolute highlight of the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend January 30 Feb 2, 2025 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds! Witness the magic unfold as skilled artists carve frozen blocks into breathtaking masterpieces during live ice carving demonstrations. Feel the thrill as you glide down the ice slide and showcase your skills in frosty games like cornhole and ice hockey.
Explore local vendor tents for the perfect souvenir while savoring delectable bites from food trucks. When you need a break, cozy up in the warming tent or enjoy delightful s’mores by the fire. Advance tickets are just $5.00 (plus taxes & fees), or snag them on the day for $8.00 (plus taxes & fees).
But that's not all – experience the winter wonderland in other exciting ways during the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend:
🎿 Canton’s Ice Rink: At Sorrell’s Street Park, open all weekend for those with skates (7 AM-10 PM). Skate rentals available Friday (4-8 PM) and Saturday & Sunday (12-4 PM). Free for Haywood County residents with valid ID or $5 or a canned food item per person (expired food not accepted).
❄️ Downtown Waynesville’s Ice Stroll: Chill out as Downtown Waynesville transforms into a winter wonderland with enchanting ice sculptures lining the streets. Local businesses will keep their doors open late, offering cozy treats to keep you fueled.
🎨 Metzger’s Burl Wood Gallery Winter Arts Show Festival: Indulge in Scandinavian delights at Metzger’s Burl Wood Gallery. Enjoy Nordic cookies, traditional dishes, and glogg while immersing yourself in live music from 1 PM to 4 PM on Friday and Saturday.
🐧 Penguins on the Pigeon: On Saturday, from 1 PM to 3 PM at Canton Rec Park, witness the release of adorable rubber penguins into the river, along with a hot chocolate bar and exciting yard games. Purchase your own penguin for $5 or five for $20, and don't miss the chance to win a thrilling 50/50 split!
🔥 Cataloochee Ski’s Torch Run: Join the mesmerizing torch run extravaganza on Saturday at 10:30 PM at Cataloochee Ski Area. Watch the stunning spectacle from the lodge deck or slopeside, and catch it live on the aerial view webcam.
🏃 Frosty 5K at HCC: Participate in a free, family-friendly Frosty 5K walk or run on Sunday, from 10 AM to 12 PM on the Dahlia Ridge Trail at Haywood Community College. Enjoy surprises along the trail and enhance your winter exercise with hot chocolate and exciting activities.
✨ Clyde’s Winter Lights: All weekend long, drive through Clyde to witness the captivating winter lights along Carolina Blvd, creating a magical atmosphere with snowmen and delicate snowflakes.
🚶♀️ Winter Hikes with Haywood County Rec: On Saturday join Haywood County Recreation for invigorating Ice Fest Weekend Winter hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hikes range from 3-6 miles, offering stunning views and chances to see ice formations.
Don't miss this spectacular family-friendly celebration of winter's magic in the NC Smokies!