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This week is the opening of the World Ice Art Park, where carvers from around the world gather to compete in single and multi-block competitions. Already some of the smaller sculptures for the kid’s park are in place: a dragon slide, castles in ice, mazes to wander through. In order to encourage kids in the three “E’s” (exercise, ethics and education), the multiple slides can garner a signed commendation from Governor Parnell if they complete 5,280 feet of slides.
Visitors can spend hours or days taking in the sights. Single block sculptors begin with a block of ice approximately 5’x3’x8’. My favorite is the multi-block because of the artists ability to create fanciful, glowing images of dragons and castles, bears and mermaids, ships and angels from two story blocks of ice. As you browse, be sure to keep track of your favorites so you can vote for the people’s choice.
Take advantage of the opportunity for a dog sled ride, or rest your legs and ride the ice park train (weekends, Noon to 8). You can even borrow a pair of skates and try out the Ice Puppy Pond Ice Rink. All that walking outdoors in the cold through 27 acres can build an appetite. Fortunately the warm-up booth offers concessions. The park is open daily, from February 24 through March 30, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.