Who says all the fun in the Great Smoky Mountains hibernates after the winter holidays? Not Haywood County, that’s who! Enjoy the coolest event of the year at the Visit Haywood Ice Fest Weekend 2026! Spread across 4 days and 5 mountain towns, Ice Fest packs a punch of can’t-miss winter fun.
Make your stay and play reservations now for January 29 through February 1, 2026. Bring the whole crew with you on this trip – there will be plenty of adventure for everyone. The Ice Fest Weekend guarantees the coolest party of the year and it is where you will want to be.
The festivities kick off with a Cool Jazz Concert a HART Theatre on Thursday. On Friday, there is the Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville. Don’t miss Saturday’s main event at the Ice Extravaganza in Maggie Valley, complete with mesmerizing live ice carving demonstrations, thrilling ice games, dazzling light features, and a variety of local vendors! Other highlights also include the ice-skating rink in Canton, and the Frosty 5K in Clyde.
Bundle up and prepare for an unforgettable getaway that will warm your heart despite the winter chill!
Signature Events to Spark Winter Joy
Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville
Friday, January 30 | 5-8 PM | Downtown Waynesville
Stroll through Downtown Waynesville’s winter wonderland where enchanting ice sculptures line the streets.
Businesses will stay open late, offering cozy treats and warm drinks. Check outthe brand-new “Chill Zone” serves up beverages “on the rocks” for the perfect end to your evening.
Click here for parking made easy!
Ice Extravaganza in Maggie Valley
Saturday, January 31 | 4-9 PM | Maggie Valley Festival Grounds
Marvel at the live ice carving demos by talented artists. See frozen blocks of ice transform into jaw-dropping works of art. Feel the rush as you slide down the ice slide. Test your skills in ice games like cornhole and ice hockey. Snow will be brought down from Cataloochee Ski Area, providing a perfect snowy playground for families to enjoy. Your favorite Frozen characters will also be making a return appearance, adding an extra touch of magic to the festivities. Looking for a souvenir to take home? Shop at local vendor tents while indulging in delicious bites from food trucks. And when you need a break, enjoy the warming tent or s’mores by the fire.
Get your advanced tickets here.
More Cool Activities Await!
Jam at the Cool Jazz concert at HART Theatre. Sweat at the Frosty 5K Sponsored by HCC and the Town of Clyde. Glide on Canton’s Ice Rink and more. There’s an adventure for everyone.
Don’t Miss a Single S’more!
The Ice Fest Calendar is your guide to everything Ice Fest. Plan your itinerary so you don’t miss a single snowflake of fun all weekend long. Gather the crew and come have some BIG COOL fun in the Great Smokies this winter!