Celebrate winter with Bloor-Yorkville, at the 11th Annual Icefest, taking place on Saturday, February 20 and Sunday, February 21.
Inspired by Heart Month and the Valentine’s Day season, this year’s “Expressions of Love” theme will transform the neighbourhood into a magical showcase of 20,000 lbs. of crystal clear ice, sculpted into iconic expressions of amour. Open to the public each day between Noon – 5 pm, the Village of Yorkville Park and Cumberland Streetwill be the hub of Icefest attractions. Patrons can expect to be dazzled by ice creations, which will include an iconic LOVE sculpture, a giant tribute to world peace, an abstract couple embracing, a winter-themed heart, and a depiction of the ultimate love story – Romeo and Juliet. Be sure to drop by this year’s Photo Op and snap a picture of you and your loved ones in front of the 10 Foot Eiffel Tower ice sculpture, located in the centre of the Village of Yorkville Park. Attendees are encouraged to include #Icefest16 @BloorYorkville on their social media posts.
With the help of participating partners and sponsors, Bloor-Yorkville will be raising funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation in recognition of February being Heart Month. For a small donation, children can look forward to Ice Kiddie Cubes with a surprise toy inside, and all visitors can indulge at the Maple Taffy Station, with proceeds going back to Icefest’s charitable partner.
On Saturday, February 20, the 16th Annual Sassafraz Ice Carving Competition will start at noon. Visitors are invited to the Village of Yorkville Park to see the action, as blocks of ice are transformed into original ice sculptures, crafted on site by 10 of the most talented ice carvers in Ontario. Patrons can enter to win prizes, by casting their vote for their favourite ice sculpture between 2 pm – 5 pm. The People’s Choice Sculpture will be announced at 5:15 pm that day. Two ice carving demonstrations will also take place Sunday, February 21.
Icefest is presented by the Bloor-Yorkville BIA with support from Gold sponsor Hudson’s Bay Centre and Silver sponsors Manulife Centre, Holt Renfrew Centre, TD and The Colonnade. This is an all ages family friendly, FREE EVENT, all you have to bring is warm clothes, a hearty winter spirit, and maybe a camera to capture the moments in ice forever!