The Ice Festival in Downtown Dartmouth is the coolest way to spend your weekend!
It started yesterday and it’s going all the way through Sunday!
It’s a FREE, family-friendly celebration of winter, art, and community in the heart of Dartmouth. From live ice carving to music, games, curling and more—there’s something for every age and interest. Best of all, it’s free to attend!
I know how important these festivals are to our community and we’re thrilled to support this incredible festival, and others that bring people together and fill Dartmouth—Cole Harbour with vibrant activities and joy.
Here’s the run down:
SATURDAY – Saturday, Jan 31 (Noon – 4 PM)
Portland Street (closed from Alderney to Victoria) — the street turns into a winter playground!
What’s happening:
Live Ice Carving — Watch talented carvers create amazing sculptures right on Portland Street and at the Nova Scotia Power Illuminated Sculpture Garden by the waterfront.
Portland Street Stage — Music and performances at Portland & Prince Street — dance in the street!
Breaking Circus: Realms of Winter — at Alderney Landing Theatre (Noon – 4PM). A magical, interactive circus adventure for all ages!
Street Games & Activities — fun activities set up by Big Entertainment Inflatable Inc. near Victoria Road.
Street Curling — Try out inflatable street curling on the Dartmouth Waterfront!
Stages by O’Regan’s Igloo Concert — Live music at Ferry Terminal Park (12 – 3 PM) featuring local performers.
Igloo DJ Party — DJ tunes in the 40-ft igloo (7 – 9 PM).
Completed Ice Sculptures — Already carved pieces are out for viewing across downtown (Portland Street, King’s Wharf, Dartmouth Waterfront, East Coast Credit Union at 155 Ochterloney).
Farmers Market @ Alderney Landing — Inside from 8 AM – 1 PM with vendors & music.
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SUNDAY – Sunday, Feb 1 (Noon – 4 PM)
Fun continues with great activities for families and festival fans alike.
What’s happening:
Breaking Circus: Realms of Winter — Back at Alderney Landing Theatre (Noon – 4 PM).
The “I Am Experience” with Keonté Beals — Alderney Gate Library (1 – 3 PM): inspiring storytelling, music, and uplifting moments for all ages.
Back to the Sea Pop-Up — Interactive ocean fun at Ferry Terminal Park (Noon – 3 PM).
Stages by O’Regan’s Igloo Concert — Live music at Ferry Terminal Park (1 – 3 PM).
Street Curling — Still on the Dartmouth Waterfront (Noon – 4 PM).
Ice Sculptures on Display — By Sunday, all sculptures are complete — perfect for photos and exploring at your own pace at Portland Street, Dartmouth Waterfront, King’s Wharf, and more.
Artisan Market @ Alderney Landing — Indigenous and local artisan goods (11 AM – 3 PM).
Bundle up and come make some winter memories!
For full details and updates:
https://www.downtowndartmouth.ca/icefestival
