Celebrate the season at Downtown On Ice, the Electric City’s coolest winter tradition! This free, family-friendly festival transforms over 30 blocks of Downtown Scranton into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with ice sculptures, live ice-carving demonstrations, exciting entertainment, interactive activities, and endless photo‑worthy moments—complete with a fresh new theme each year!
2026 FESTIVAL THEME
Discover this year's theme, “Toys: A City of Ice, A World of Play,” as Downtown Scranton transforms into a playful winter world of toy‑inspired ice sculptures. Explore the festival route to find classic characters, nostalgic games, and whimsical frozen creations around every corner — a highlight of Scranton’s signature winter festival.
Get ready for the coolest moments of the weekend—here’s what’s lighting up Downtown On Ice.
50+ Ice Sculptures in Downtown Scranton
Stroll 30 blocks of Downtown Scranton to explore themed ice sculptures handcrafted by master carvers. Don’t forget to check the event map so you don’t miss a single display!
Live Ice Carving Demonstrations
Experience the excitement of live ice carving as master sculptors from Sculpted Ice Works turn massive blocks of ice into dazzling works of art all weekend long. The first carving kicks off Friday at 5:30 PM outside The Marketplace at Steamtown, with more demonstrations happening throughout the weekend—check the full event schedule to catch them all!
Digital Sculpture Scavenger Hunt
Dive into the Ice Festival’s digital scavenger hunt as you explore more than 50 ice sculptures scattered throughout downtown Scranton, scanning each one to earn FrostBites and climb the leaderboard. Rack up points for a chance to win exclusive prizes — including festival merch and a $300 Downtown Scranton shopping spree!
Kids & Family Activities on Courthouse Square
Courthouse Square bursts with family‑friendly energy all weekend long, featuring everything from lively performances and character drop‑ins to story time sessions, face painting, balloon‑twisting fun, and other interactive winter activities. It’s the place where kids can explore, imagine, and jump into the festival spirit.
Live Music & Entertainment
Downtown On Ice fills the weekend with nonstop performances, from local musicians and dancers to roaming entertainers who bring energy to every block of the festival. With shows happening on Courthouse Square and pop‑ups throughout downtown, there’s always something to catch — just be sure to check the entertainment schedule so you don’t miss your favorites.
Chills & Cheers Bar Crawl
Kick off Downtown On Ice with the Chills & Cheers Bar Crawl, a Friday‑night tour of Downtown Scranton’s favorite bars and restaurants, complete with icy drinks and winter vibes. Your ticket includes access to all participating locations from 5–10 PM on January 16, 2026, along with cover charges, drink specials, and fun festival extras like a light‑up necklace and stadium cup. Bar Crawl Registration runs from 5–7 PM at the Hilton Scranton.
Dine & Shop Local in Downtown Scranton
Take a break from the ice and explore the local businesses that bring Downtown Scranton to life. From one‑of‑a‑kind boutiques to inviting cafés and lively pubs, you’ll find countless ways to shop, sip, and savor your way through the festival—while supporting the small businesses that make the downtown district thrive.
6:00 PM – Welcome kickoff featuring BTOS Wooden Soldiers, Dani Long Leggs & Boston
7:30–9:30 PM – Lite Brite DJ Glow Party with EJ the DJ
Saturday, January 17
10:00–10:45 AM – Howard Gardner Band
11:00–11:30 AM – Sherry’s Royalettes
11:30 AM–12:00 PM – Boston
12:30–1:00 PM – Dani Long Legs
1:00–1:30 PM – Abington Heights Civic League
1:30–2:00 PM – Scranton High School Show Choir
2:00–2:30 PM – Double “R” Twirlettes
2:30–3:00 PM – Rob the Juggler
3:30–4:00 PM – Family Feud: Battle of the Badges
5:00–7:00 PM – Dixieland Band
There will be limited on-street parking in and around Downtown Scranton. Downtown Scranton provides five Central Parking Garages within close proximity to Courthouse Square.
We recommend confirming operating hours and getting up-to-date info directly with the venue prior to your visit.
