Plan Your Trip to the World Ice Art Championships
While many places slump in winter, Alaska booms and blossoms. It’s one of those times of year that we really shine as a unique force in these 50 states. One festival of which we are extremely proud is the Ice Art Championship held in Fairbanks, Alaska. You’ll certainly want to bring your Fairbanks car rentals to catch this spectacle.
The Ice Park
The Ice Art Championship takes place in the Ice Park of Fairbanks. This park is open throughout the season with sculptures for viewing. You can buy a season pass or simply a day pass if you’re interested in seeing these gorgeous pieces of art.
Day passes are $15 per adult, and $8 per youth. A full list of admission prices can be found here. Group tours are available for booking if you’re traveling in a party of 10 or more.
Events at the Park
The big competitions that you’ll want to take your Fairbanks car rentals to check out begin in February.
The Single Block Competition runs from February 27 until March 1. The Awards and Lighting Ceremony will take place on March 2 at 7:00 pm. Throughout that time, you will be able to wander the grounds to view the sculptures. The exhibits will be formally and officially judged on the evening of March 1 after 9:30 p.m.
The Multi Block Competition is next, running from March 4 to March 9. Judging takes place on the evening of the 9 after 10:00 p.m. Until that time, you can examine the sculptures for yourself. Why not have fun with it? Judge for yourself and bet in your group who you think should win. Though you may have a tough time! These sculptures are always breathtaking.
The Annual Kids Ice Park will also be open during these periods. It runs from February 20 until March 26. The Kid’s Park is open from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day.
Ice sculpting classes at the Park
Have you ever wondered how the ice sculptors create their masterpieces? Now you can learn. The Ice Park offers ice-sculpting classes. The classes provide an opportunity to learn the techniques involved in sculpting in a safe environment with the guidance of an expert. They will provide the equipment and the space. You’ll want to dress warmly, with hat, gloves, and warm coat. They’ll provide the hot drinks, and full day classes will provide lunch.
Classes offered are the introductory and beginners’ courses for $80 and $140, respectively. Once you’ve completed the beginners’ course, you are eligible to register for the “Amateur Open” or “Youth Classic” competitions that take place during the World Ice Art Championship season.
Full information on the classes can be found here.
Dog sled rides
The Ice Park is a never-ending stream of winter thrill. Once you’ve seen the sculptures, head on out for one of their dog sledding rides. Rides range from 1 to 2 miles. They take you over the dog-mushing trail beside the Ice Park. If you’ve never been dog-mushing then this is the perfect time to try! You aren’t trapped into a long ride and can get a taste of it – perfect for helping you decide if you want a longer trip at a dog-sledding company.
You’ll likely find yourself bringing your Fairbanks car rentals back for more than just a day here! There’s so much to do and see that a few hours is not enough.
Reserve your Fairbanks car rentals from Avis today to guarantee a vehicle for the Ice Art Championships 2017.