Ice and Lights: A Festive Winter Wonderland in Downtown Ithaca, New York

As the temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, Downtown Ithaca is preparing for its highly anticipated annual event, Ice and Lights 2023. This exciting celebration promises two weekends of family fun, featuring stunning ice sculptures, festive holiday lights, and a range of activities and attractions.

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Ice and Lights 2023, organized by the Downtown Ithaca Alliance, will take place on December 1, 2, and 9. The festival will feature ice sculptures, a silent disco, a Chowder Cook-Off, and of course, the arrival of Santa Claus.

The highlight of Ice and Lights 2023 is without any doubt the ice sculptures that transform the streets of Downtown Ithaca into a winter wonderland. Talented artists will showcase their craftsmanship, sculpting intricate designs from blocks of ice. You and your family will be in awe of these frozen works of art, which range from animals and characters to elaborate structures.

In addition to the enchanting ice sculptures, you will be surrounded by sparkling lights illuminating the streets of Downtown Ithaca. The BEYOND light art installations will add a layer of artistic wonder, too.

Ice and Lights 2023 is a family-oriented event, offering something for everyone. On December 9th, your kids can look forward to Santa's Arrival in Downtown Ithaca. Live performances, a hot cocoa bar, and the presence of Sparky the Unicorn will delight your little ones.

Another exciting highlight of Ice and Lights 2023 is the annual Chowder Cook-Off, taking place on December 2nd. Local chefs will compete for the title of the best chowder, offering visitors a chance to sample a variety of delicious creations. Attendees can indulge in rich and creamy traditional and contemporary chowders.

In addition to the ice sculptures and culinary delights, Ice and Lights 2023  also offers a silent disco which is held on both weekends. Other offerings include craft beverage sampling, vendors showcasing their wares, and the Habitat for Humanity Holiday Cookie Walk, where you can stock up on delicious home-baked cookies while supporting a local cause.

The festival will take place at various locations in Downtown Ithaca, with specific event schedules and directions provided on the official Downtown Ithaca Alliance website. If you plan to go, bundle up warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your holiday spirit to make the most of this extraordinary winter event!