A massive winter playground is about to take over a small Ontario town near Toronto, with the return of a highly anticipated “Fire and Ice” transformation in the heart of cottage country.
If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Canadian winter bucket list item, look no further than Bracebridge. Every January, this charming Muskoka town undergoes an epic makeover for the Fire and Ice Festival, trading its main street traffic lights for inner tubes and its pavement for 75 truckloads of fresh snow.
The festival’s signature “fire and ice” theme comes to life across three distinct zones. In Memorial Park, guests can find a scenic skating trail that winds through the snowy landscape. After a few laps, you can try your hand at axe throwing, take the kids snowshoeing, or catch the Great Canadian Lumberjack Show at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., or 4 p.m.
Professional ice sculpting demonstrations will also be happening throughout the afternoon, alongside an interactive drum circle and a cozy Biergarten hosted by Bracebridge Hall.
For the adrenaline seekers, the Midtown area plays host to the event’s most iconic attraction: the Downtown Tube Run. Spanning approximately 200 feet, this massive snow slide lets you zip right down the main street. If you’re heading up early, you can even kick off your morning with a pancake breakfast.
The festivities continue Downtown, where you can roast marshmallows, indulge in fresh maple taffy, or even catch a show by the Muskoka Drag Royalty at Griffin Gastro Pub. Families will love the mini-curling and carnival games, while those needing a break from the cold can retreat to an 80s-inspired ski lodge.
As the sun sets, the heat kicks up along Taylor Road. Professional fire artist “The Fire Guy” will be putting on dazzling performances throughout the day, leading up to the grand finale: a spectacular fireworks display at the Silver Bridge at 6 p.m.
The Fire and Ice Festival runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are priced at just $8 if you snag them through the new Downtown Bracebridge app by January 23, while general admission after that is $10 (kids 5 and under are free).
To see the full schedule of events, visit their website here!