Looking for something fun to do this winter? Explore the 2025 Cripple Creek Ice Festival from February 15th – 23rd and discover one of the most exciting events in the Pikes Peak Region. Every winter, the small town of Cripple Creek comes alive with a dazzling display of ice sculptures, attracting visitors from all over the region. Over the course of the week, you will see impressive carving from talented artists who compete head to head for a cash prize. All of the excitement happens right in front of Triple Crown Casinos, so make sure to book your stay and make the most of the 2025 Cripple Creek Ice Festival.
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains below the world-famous Pikes Peak, Cripple Creek is known for its rich history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. While the town has a population of just over 1,000 residents, it swells with thousands of visitors during the annual Ice Festival, making it a must-visit destination in the winter.
The 2025 Cripple Creek Ice Festival
The Cripple Creek Ice Festival is a winter wonderland of frozen artistry, where the streets are transformed into an outdoor gallery of breathtaking ice sculptures. This annual event draws some of the most talented ice artists from across the region, each eager to showcase their skills and creativity in this unique medium.
These sculptures range in size and complexity, from delicate, intricate figures with lace-like details to massive, awe-inspiring installations that tower over spectators. This year, artists were not given a theme, but they were encouraged to get as creative as they would like!
One of the main attractions of the festival is the live ice carving competition, where you can actively see teams working on their sculptures. This thrilling event pits artists against each other in a timed contest, where they transform ordinary blocks of ice into extraordinary masterpieces. Witness the energy and focus as these skilled artisans wield chainsaws, chisels, and even blowtorches, meticulously shaping and refining their creations. Once completed, the sculptures remain on display for the rest of the festive week!
The competition unfolds over both weekends, ensuring guests get the chance to see the best of the live-action carving. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique winter experience, the Cripple Creek Ice Festival offers a captivating blend of art, competition, and winter charm.
Interactive Ice Displays
What sets the Cripple Creek Ice Festival apart is its commitment to providing an interactive and immersive experience for visitors. Throughout the festival, you can find various interactive ice displays, including ice slides, ice mazes, and even an ice throne where you can channel your inner royalty for a photo opportunity. Don’t forget to bring your warmest winter attire because you’ll want to spend hours exploring and having fun in this icy wonderland.
Explore The Ice Castles
Looking for more frozen fun? The Cripple Creek Ice Festival in 2025 is complemented by the local Ice Castles! Made entirely from ice, the Ice Castles tower over Cripple Creek with spectacular columns of ice shaped into a one-of-a-kind frozen wonderland.
Explore a labyrinth of shimmering ice walls, marvel at the towering spires that reach towards the sky, and wander through tunnels that glow at night. It’s an immersive experience that will leave you in awe of the beauty of the ice. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the wonder of the Ice Castles during your visit to the Cripple Creek Ice Festival. It’s a winter wonderland adventure you won’t soon forget!
Visit Local Businesses
Walking through the streets of Cripple Creek while looking at the marvelous ice displays can be chilly work, so it’s a good thing that the Cripple Creek Ice Festival offers a wide array of delicious food and hot treats to keep you energized and warm. From hot cocoa to comfort food, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Check out the local booths to get a souvenir from the festival. Stop in one of many bars on Bennet Avenue, like McGills Pint & Platter, for alcoholic drinks like spiked cocoa and hot toddies. If you need to warm up indoors, stop in one of the many casinos in Cripple Creek, like McGills Hotel and Casino, The Brass Ass, and The Midnight Rose, and try your luck on one of the many games available.
Stay & Play With Triple Crown Casinos
Enjoy the Cripple Creek Ice Festival and stay for an evening of fun at one of our historic casinos on Bennett Avenue. Our casinos and hotel are located conveniently directly in front of the competition giving you the best access to the Cripple Creek Ice Festival. Book your stay today!
