Lake James Ice Festival Returns January 10 with ‘Down on the Farm’ Theme Honoring Local Heritage
Experience winter magic at Lake James Ice Festival, Jan 10, 2026. World-champion ice carver Aaron Costic, local food trucks, craft beer. Support park trails!
(NEBO, NC) — Winter magic returns to Lake James State Park on Saturday, January 10, 2026, as the Friends of Lake James State Park presents the fifth annual Lake James Ice Festival at the Paddy's Creek Visitor Center. This year's theme, "Down on the Farm: A Tribute to Fonta Flora & Whippoorwill Dairy," celebrates the agricultural roots and local craftsmanship that make Western North Carolina special.
From 6:00 to 9:00 PM, visitors will witness world-champion ice carver Aaron Costic transform massive blocks of ice into stunning farm-inspired sculptures through live demonstrations. As the sun sets over the Blue Ridge foothills, the frozen menagerie will illuminate against a backdrop of colorful LED lights, creating a spectacle that has drawn sold-out crowds since the festival's inception in 2022.
"This year's theme is particularly meaningful because it honors our neighbors at Fonta Flora and Whippoorwill Dairy, who embody the farm-to-table spirit that defines our region," said Lake James State Park Superintendent Nora Coffey. "We're bringing together the artistry of ice carving with the agricultural heritage that makes this corner of Appalachia so unique. It's a celebration of craft, community, and the landscapes we all share."
The "Down on the Farm" theme marks a departure from last year's popular "Underwater Park" aquatic display, showcasing Costic's versatility as a world-renowned artist. With more than 25 years of experience and multiple awards from the World Ice Art Championships in Alaska, Costic will create an array of farm animals and agricultural scenes that pay homage to the working landscapes surrounding the park.
The evening promises to be a feast for all the senses, featuring delicious local fare from Appalachian Chic's Southern Experience, Cactus Rainbow, Carolina Catfish, and Pietro's Wood Fired Pizza food trucks. Fonta Flora Brewery, the festival's main alcohol sponsor and honoree, will provide craft beer and wine for purchase throughout the event.
Festival-goers can also enter to win $1,000 in "cold hard cash" through the event's raffle, with the drawing taking place after the spectacular Fire & Ice Tower demonstration.
Raffle tickets are $10 each and available for purchase online or at the event.
Since its launch five years ago, the Lake James Ice Festival has become a beloved winter tradition, raising thousands of dollars to support trail development and park improvements. The inaugural 2022 event attracted hundreds of visitors, with subsequent years building on that success through sold-out crowds and growing community support.
All proceeds from the 2026 festival will fund future trail improvements at Lake James State Park, ensuring the park continues to expand and serve as a natural treasure for generations to come.
General admission tickets are $25 for all ages and available now.
Sponsorship opportunities starting at $500 are available and include VIP access. Contact info@lakejamesstatepark.org for sponsorship details.
The Lake James Ice Festival takes place at Lake James State Park – Paddy's Creek Visitor Center, 2229 Lake James State Park Rd, Nebo, NC 28761.
For more information, visit www.lakejamesstatepark.org or contact the Friends of Lake James State Park.
About Friends of Lake James State Park The Friends of Lake James State Park is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering conservation, education, and recreation efforts in support of Lake James State Park. Through fundraising events, volunteer initiatives, and community partnerships, the Friends work to enhance visitor experiences and preserve the natural beauty of this Western North Carolina treasure.