Fort Collins’ Annual 2-Day Ice Sculpture Event in Old Town

Winter in Colorado brings all sorts of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to soaking in a hot spring and just relaxing by the fire with a warm beverage. Winter in Fort Collins brings an event that captivates people of all ages: Live ice carving in Old Town Square. If anything, you always want to get out to see the finished masterpiece, and grab a bite or drink in Downtown.

Live Ice Crafting Mesmerizes Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado

There's something about seeing a skilled artist turn an item into a work of art; whether it be chainsaw carving, snow sculpting, or ice sculpting. The details that they can put into their pieces can amaze, while they make it all look so easy. They make you want to try it for yourself, if only you had the tools and materials to practice with. Years and years of practice are on display each winter in Fort Collins with the DDA's annual 'Live Ice Carving' event.

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Established in 2022, the event invites people to Old Town Square to see the ice turned into something special each year. The 2026 event was set to feature Tom Barlow of Struckman Sculpture Ice out of Loveland, creating an ice castle over two sessions, February 6 and February 7; each carving session starting at 4:00 p.m.

A Bonus to the Live Ice Sculpting in Old Town Fort Collins

The yearly event is free to attend and gives the public a great opportunity to not only see art created from ice, but also to check out the great restaurants/bars in Downtown but also one more thing: It's a final chance to see the annual Holiday Lights throughout downtown before they're taken down.