This year marks the 17th annual Boardwalk Ice on Whyte Festival, which is scheduled to run from Thursday, January 23rd to Sunday, February 2nd. Ice on Whyte is widely considered to be one of the best winter and ice festivals in the country. It is also one of Canada’s three international ice carving competitions, the other two being Ice Magic in Lake Louise and Winterlude in Ottawa.

These ice-carving competitions involve teams of multiple artists who work together to transform a giant block of ice into a masterpiece. The level of detail that they are able to achieve is truly astounding. At Ice on White, the competition is held under a large tent to protect the sculptures and help control the temperature, making for a pleasant time strolling around.

Festivalgoers can try creating their own ice sculptures as well. There will be a “Big Chippers” station set up for adults at the festival’s Ice Bar, where you can make a small ice carving while enjoying a drink. Younger attendees can make their own ice sculpture at the “Little Chippers” carving station inside of an inflatable igloo.

The event will be taking place at Dr. Wilbert McIntyre Park on 104 Street NW in Old Strathcona. If you’re driving there, you will be able to find parking at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market on 103 Street NW. Tickets will be available at the door and cost just $7 for adults and $4 for children up to 13 years of age. Infants under two get in free!

Opening hours for Boardwalk Ice on Whyte will vary depending on the day, as follows:
January 23 & 24: 2 pm – 9:30 pm
January 25 & 26: 10 am – 9:30 pm
January 27: Closed
January 28 – 31: 5 pm – 9:30 pm
February 1 & 2: 10 am – 9:30 pm

During the last day of the festival, there will also be a “Stew Off” competition taking place from noon until 3 pm. Five local chefs will prepare delicious stews using local ingredients, and attendees will be able to vote for their favourite dish. It’s always a great way to warm up on a chilly day.

The Boardwalk Ice on Whyte Festival is organized by the Ice on Whyte Festival Society, a charitable organization that seeks to advance public art appreciation and increase tourism in Old Strathcona. The Ice on Whyte Festival Society also presents Boardwalk Sand on Whyte, a sand-carving competition held during the summer.

While you’re down in Old Strathcona for Boardwalk Ice on Whyte, it’s a great opportunity to take in the surrounding area. Old Strathcona is a popular arts and entertainment district with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. During the festival, many of the local businesses offer exclusive discounts of around 15-20% off their goods and services.

You don’t need to stay cooped up inside just because the temperatures are still below freezing. Bundle up and let the excitement of Boardwalk Ice on Whyte keep you warm as you check out the beautiful ice creations and try your hand at some ice carving as well.