All things retro are cool again, which means we’re super excited for Bloor-Yorkville Icefest: Awesome 80s! Paying homage to the decade of cult films, iconic pop stars, and bold artists, we’ll be transforming the Village of Yorkville Park and surrounding areas to represent the best of the 1980s. Glittering ice sculptures will depict everything from boom boxes, celebrity icons, artwork, and even the DeLorean from Back to the Future! This is our 15th year hosting Icefest, and we’re sure you’ll love this year’s programming, all of which is in support of the Heart & Stroke Foundation. This year’s event takes place on February 8th, from 12 pm – 8 pm, and February 9th, from 12 pm – 5pm. Everyone is welcome to this free, all-ages event.
You can expect high energy coming from our Icefest DJ Lounge, which will be playing a curated selection of throwback hits while decorated with iconic posters and bright colours. The lounge will also feature plush couches, high-top tables, a photo booth, and a cell phone charging station, so you can make yourself comfortable and enjoy the music. We’re also bringing back our Muskoka Warming Area, set among the trees in the Village of Yorkville Park. Surrounded by heat lamps and fleece blankets, this area lets you fearlessly embrace the winter season! New this year, we have a heated 80s-themed Arcade! For a $2 donation, guests can play a variety of throwback arcade games (fear not – this includes Pac Man).
Of course, no Icefest would be complete without the Sassafraz Ice Carving Competition! Starting at 12 pm on February 8th, this is a fun way to witness truly talented carvers design and create their own sculptures live on-site! Be sure to visit our Bloor-Yorkville BIA tent between 2 pm – 5 pm (after the competition is complete), where you can vote for your favourite sculpture; a vote lets you enter to win of our two prize packages. You can also pick up your guide to the Scavenger Hunt, which will lead you throughout the event in hopes of winning a $1000 cash prize. There will also be live ice-carving demonstrations taking place throughout the day on February 9th.
Our onsite vendors include Auntie Jo’s Kettle Corn, Beavertails, Davids Tea, INDIE88 Radio, Prince Edwards Fries, the ROM, Wine Rack, and Yorkville Crepes, each offering something unique throughout the weekend.
Below is a map of where you can find the ice sculptures throughout the area. You can also click here to download and print your own copy. If you’re driving to the event, be sure to check out our Bloor-Yorkville parking page! We hope to see you out celebrating the Awesome 80s with us!
You can find more information on our Bloor-Yorkville Icefest website and check out the Facebook Event Page here.
