NORTH WOODSTOCK, N.H. – The annual Ice Castles event has returned, captivating visitors across New Hampshire and several other states with its stunning architectural displays crafted from ice.
These mesmerizing attractions showcase towers, tunnels, archways, and caves, all constructed by meticulously growing and arranging thousands of icicles, enhanced by a delicate mist from sprinklers.
Since its inception in 2011, Ice Castles has seen remarkable expansion. This year, it operates in Utah, Minnesota, two locations in Colorado, and New Hampshire, where visitors can also enjoy a snow tubing hill and an ice bar. Following a milder winter last year, the organizers expressed excitement over the cold conditions allowing for an earlier opening this season.
“It’s one of the biggest ice castles we’ve ever built,” said a company representative. “We’re looking at approximately 25 million pounds of ice spread over two acres.”
As a winter storm brought cold and wet snow to parts of the South, visitors donned warm clothing to explore the intricate pathways of the New Hampshire ice castle.
One visitor from Massachusetts shared her excitement about this unique experience. “I’ve never seen anything like this before. Honestly, I didn’t think it was gonna be this big,” she remarked.
Another visitor made headlines as her partner proposed during their enchanting visit. “It’s a beautiful place,” the fiancé expressed, delighted by the outcome of his proposal.
During the day, the ice structures sparkle with a soft blue glow. As night falls, an array of lights embedded within the ice illuminate the landscape in shades of pink, purple, and green.
“Once you enter into an ice castle, you’re transitioning into something that’s totally immersive and unlike anything most guests have ever seen,” the representative noted. “I think it inspires people.”
Join the crowds and witness this winter wonderland, where magic takes shape in ice!
