Harrisburg prepares for annual Ice and Fire Festival with 68 ice sculptures

As the sun sets over Harrisburg, excitement fills the air for the upcoming Ice & Fire Festival, set to transform the city into a winter wonderland on March 1. The event promises a dazzling display of creativity and community spirit, featuring 68 stunning ice sculptures, including life-sized creations like an ice throne and a giant pelican, all crafted from an impressive 41,000 pounds of ice.

During a recent press conference, city officials and sponsors gathered to unveil the festival's highlights. Michelle Moyer, the Director of Communications, expressed gratitude to the sponsors, particularly M&T Bank, which returns as the title sponsor. Andy Hetrick, Senior VP at M&T, emphasized the bank's commitment to community engagement, stating, "We love to highlight all the fun, fabulous things that are happening in the city of Harrisburg."

The festival will kick off with the ice sculptures being illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere for attendees. In addition to the sculptures, visitors can participate in an ice sculpture scavenger hunt, where scanning QR codes at various installations could lead to exciting prizes donated by local businesses. Families can also enjoy a 30-foot-long ice slide, free for all ages, and an iceless ice skating rink, allowing everyone to glide across a synthetic surface that mimics real ice.

Entertainment will abound, with performances from local dance and music groups, as well as fire dancers from Skylark Circus Arts. For those seeking warmth, heated seating tents and fire pits will be available throughout the event.

Artisans will showcase their handcrafted goods along Second Street, while food trucks will offer a variety of culinary delights, from funnel cakes to pierogies. Local restaurants will also feature ice and fire-themed specials, ensuring that visitors can indulge in unique dining experiences.

The Ice & Fire Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of Harrisburg. As the city prepares for this winter spectacle, residents and visitors alike are invited to step out, explore, and enjoy the festivities that await.