Winter in Carmel gets a little more magical during the Festival of Ice 2026, when professional ice carvers transform giant blocks of ice into sparkling works of art you can watch take shape in real time. It’s part street festival, part live art show, and truly unique for a Midwest winter weekend. The “gallery” is outdoors, the art is temporary, and the whole community gets to vote for their favorite creations.
Festival of Ice takes place January 16–17, 2026 and is free and open to the public, with events happening in two spots: the Carmel Arts & Design District (Main Street) and The Ice at Carter Green.
What makes this weekend so cool (literally) is how interactive it is. On Friday, you can stroll Main Street and watch the carvers work up close. Come back Saturday to see even more carving, enjoy the chili cook-off, and cast your vote in the People’s Choice sculpture contest. The finished pieces glow and sparkle as the day goes on, making them perfect for photos and an easy winter outing that feels different from the usual cold-weather routine.
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Festival of Ice 2026 Schedule
Please note: the official schedule may change before January 16, 2026, so it’s smart to double-check details before you go.
Friday, January 16, 2026
Location: Carmel Arts & Design District (Main Street)
4:00–8:00 p.m.: Ice carving demonstrations on Main Street
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Location: The Ice at Carter Green
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.: Ice carving demonstrations
Noon–4:00 p.m.: People’s Choice sculpture voting
12:00–2:00 p.m.: Carmel Fire Department Firehouse Chili Cook-Off
11:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.: Ice skating, food & beverage, live DJ
5:00–6:00 p.m.: Carver award ceremony
Quick Tips for Families
- Bring a camera: The sculptures make great backdrops, especially as they catch the light.
- Layer up: You’ll be outside watching live carving (and possibly skating) for stretches of time.
- Vote and wander: People’s Choice voting makes it fun for kids to “pick a winner.”
Address: The Ice at Carter Green, 10 Carter Green, Carmel, IN 46032
For the most up-to-date info on the Festival of Ice and other events at The Ice at Carter Green (including any schedule changes), visit theiceatcartergreen.com/events.
