The historic Alton Mill Arts Centre in Caledon is set to transform this weekend into a frosty wonderland for the annual Fire & Ice Winter Festival.
Scheduled for two days, this community-centric event promises a delightful mix of outdoor and indoor activities, offering an opportunity to revel in the joys of the Canadian winter alongside friends and family.
Organized on the picturesque grounds of Alton Mill, the festival is a unique blend of frosty outdoor fun and cozy indoor experiences, all while supporting local artisans, businesses, and vendors during the chilliest time of the year.
A key highlight of the event is the array of activities planned for 2024. Visitors can look forward to outdoor pond hockey and ice skating sessions (weather dependent) and a variety of children’s activities, including the much-loved “super snow slide.” Ice carving demonstrations and a spectacular fire sculpture by the renowned local artist Paul Morin are sure to captivate attendees.
The festival’s warmth extends to its culinary offerings, with Miller’s Meats food truck serving hot delicacies, complemented by a selection of warm beverages. The evening is set to sizzle at the Hot Stove Lounge, featuring the Hot Mic Comedy Show and a concert by Rag Maple, creating an ambiance perfect for socializing and relaxation.
The outdoor schedule for Saturday, January 27th, is packed with activities. The day begins with pond hockey and opening ceremonies, followed by ice skating, blacksmithing displays, a super snow slide for kids, and community-building activities like building a snölykta – a Swedish snow lantern. The evening culminates with Paul Morin’s fire sculpture, an artistic marvel accompanied by evocative music.
Indoor activities are equally engaging, offering a silent auction, open studios, vendor markets, and workshops ranging from candle-making to wet felted landscape creation. Art enthusiasts can enjoy live painting demos and acoustic guitar performances, adding to the festival’s creative flair.
Sunday’s schedule mirrors the previous day’s charm with skating, blacksmithing, and vendor markets, along with the unique opportunity for mini tarot card readings. The previous night’s fire sculpture remains on display, serving as a testament to the festival’s blend of art and nature.
In a gesture of community spirit, admission to the event is Pay-What-You-Can (PWYC) at the gate, with suggested donations to help sustain future festivals. Proceeds will benefit Headwaters Arts. For those seeking an exclusive experience, the Hot Stove Lounge on Saturday evening is a ticketed event.
Trip Planning — Fire & Ice Winter Festival
The Fire & Ice Winter Festival is a celebration of community, art, and the enduring spirit of the Canadian winter. It’s an invitation to step outside, breathe in the crisp air, and rediscover the magic of the season in a setting that’s both enchanting and heartwarming.
Where: Alton Mill Arts Centre, Amelia Street, Alton
When:
Saturday, January 27, 2024 | 12 Noon to 8 pm
Sunday, January 28, 2024 | 10 am to 5 pm
Saturday: Fire Sculpture 6:30 pm
Hot Stove Lounge & Hot Mics Comedy: 7:30 pm
How Much: By Donation