Photo credit Scott Dommin
VERMILION — Main Street Vermilion will host its annual Ice-A-Fair this Saturday, bringing ice sculptures, live demonstrations and family activities to downtown Vermilion.
Organizers say the event is celebrating its 17th year. Activities begin at 11 a.m. and will feature ice sculptures created by Elegant Ice Creations, along with scheduled carving demonstrations at several downtown locations.
“Ice A Fair brings our community together to celebrate winter in the heart of downtown Vermilion,” said Kate Repola, executive director of Main Street Vermilion. “Each year, our small town on a great lake transforms into a lively destination filled with ice sculptures, local businesses, and family-friendly fun.”
Start the day with Chocolate Fest
Before Ice-A-Fair begins, Ritter Public Library will host its annual Chocolate Fest from 9:30 a.m. to noon at 5680 Liberty Ave. The event is a fundraiser where visitors buy tickets and trade them for sample-size chocolate treats made by community bakers, with proceeds supporting the Friends of the library.
What’s happening
Ice sculptures and carving demonstrations are scheduled throughout the day.
The Welcome and Information Center at 685 Main St. will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with schedules, raffles and drawings. Free kids train rides will also run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., departing from 685 Main St.
Families can visit the Frozen Play Space at the corner of Grand and Liberty, featuring an ice slide, a Frozen Brontosaurus and games. Character visits with Pete the Penguin and Jolly the Snowman are also planned.
Hot chocolate stops
Free hot chocolate will be available at Friendship Park, provided by Kingston of Vermilion, and at Exchange Park, provided by Kiwanis Club of Vermilion.
Parking
Parking is available throughout downtown, including public areas near Victory Park, Main Street Beach and the library, but it can be limited during peak hours. Arriving early and planning for a short walk is recommended.
Fire & Ice finale
The day concludes at 6 p.m. at Exchange Park with the Fire & Ice finale, where a carved “chimney” of ice is set to music as a fire burns inside and the sculpture melts.
Ice-A-Fair is supported by Shores & Islands Ohio, the Lorain County Visitors Bureau, the Vermilion VFW and local sponsors.
More information and schedule updates are available at mainstreetvermilion.org and through Main Street Vermilion’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
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