World Ice Art Championships

Festival Location: Fairbanks, AK, USA

Festival State: Alaskan Festivals

Festival Type(s): Art Festivals, Winter Festivals, Snow Festivals | Snow Events

By: © Nelson Taylor 2009

Every March, Fairbanks is the place to be for anyone involved or interested in the world of ice carving. Sculptors can compete in one of three events, the first two being invitation only. The Single Block Classic consists of forty two-person teams each work their magic on a block of ice measuring 5'x8'x3' and weighing about 7800 pounds. Recent standouts include dragons and pirate ships. For the Multi-Block Competition, twenty four-person teams each attack twelve blocks of ice measuring 4'x4'x3' and weighing 3000 pounds. For this event, sculptors are provided heavy equipment to move the massive blocks of ice. Examples include a dog team and sled and native dancers joined by a dancing bear.

The final event, the Fairbanks Open, is reserved for anyone over the age of 16 who is interested in trying their hand at ice carving. But to be eligible, contestants must complete an ice sculpting class. Day passes for the public are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (55+), $2 for children 6-12 years old, and it is free for kids under the age of 5. Hint: nighttime is the right time to view the sculptures as colored lights bring the shimmering statues to life. As Chairman Dick Brickley likes to say, "Have an ice day!"