Annual Hunter Ice Festival draws thousands

Published 9:20 am Friday, January 24, 2025

By Max Harden

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NILES — The Hunter Ice Festival took over downtown Niles this past weekend, much to the delight of those in attendance.

The 21st annual event featured dozens of expertly carved ice sculptures from prominent artists placed around the downtown for people to view.

Guests flocked toward festival favorites like the Fire and Ice, the Frigid 5K Run, the Speed Carving Show, Ice Fights, the Interactive Family Fun Ice Park and Ice Hill Slide and the return of Hunter Ice Cream. According to On Base Productions owner and Niles DDA Main Street member Charles Nelson, more than 20,000 people attended the festivities for some frozen fun.

“For 21 years, the Hunter Ice Festival has brought free family fun to downtown, and this weekend was no exception,” Nelson said. “The festival’s goal is to boost local businesses by driving foot traffic and attracting new customers—and this year’s energy was off the charts. A huge thanks to the volunteers, especially the Culver’s team who braved the cold to serve ice cream, the amazing spectators who came to enjoy the sculptures, our generous sponsors – with a special shoutout to Presenting Sponsor Modineer Group – and the talented carvers who created stunning works of art.

“We’re already planning next year’s events—get ready for it to be bigger and better than ever.”

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