Amherst, Fire & Ice Festival

Celebrate winter in Amherst with dazzling ice sculptures, fiery performances, and cozy community fun.

Get ready for an unforgettable winter celebration at the Fire & Ice Festival & Luminaria on the Amherst Common! On Saturday, February 22, 3-6PM, the common will transform into a winter wonderland filled with breathtaking ice sculptures, mesmerizing fire performances, hands-on crafts, and cozy treats—all designed to bring our community together in a spectacular display of art and winter fun.

This year’s festival features an exciting lineup of activities for all ages, making it the perfect event to embrace the season with family, friends, and neighbors. Stroll through Amherst Common and marvel at intricately carved ice sculptures, created by a local talented artist who turns blocks of ice into stunning works of art.

For those who love getting creative, take part in winter tie-dye crafting, where you can design a unique, cold-weather-inspired piece to take home. Watch wood carving demonstrations in action, showcasing the incredible skill and artistry behind this traditional craft. Metal sculptures will also be on display, adding an industrial and artistic edge to the festival’s lineup.

Families and children will have a blast meeting Sparky, the friendly mascot of the Amherst Fire Department, while exploring a real fire truck up close! After, you can warm up by the fire pits, sip on rich hot cocoa, and roast the perfect s’more to complete the ultimate winter experience.

As the sun sets, prepare to be captivated by an exhilarating fire arts performance, lighting up the night with dazzling displays of movement and flame. Adding to the magic, the Luminaria display will illuminate Amherst Common, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that highlights the beauty of winter evenings. The glowing lanterns will offer a peaceful and picturesque setting to enjoy the festivities.

The energy will stay high throughout the event with a live DJ, bringing music and entertainment. Whether you’re dancing to your favorite songs or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the music will add an extra layer of excitement to the night.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including:

• Hot Cocoa, S’mores, & Fire Pits: Warm up with complimentary hot cocoa and roast s’mores over open fire pits.

• Ice Sculptures: Marvel at ten intricate ice sculptures displayed throughout the Amherst Common, by Joe Almeida

• Winter Tie-Dye Crafting: Participate in creative winter-themed tie-dye projects with Amherst Recreation.

• Fire Arts Performance: Enjoy a captivating fire juggling performance by Matica Arts.

• Metal Sculptures Demonstration: Witness live metal sculpting by local artist and Hampshire College alum Kamil Peters.

• Wood Carving Demonstration: Observe Amherst resident Cody Stosz of Kodiak Carving showcase his wood carving skills.

• Special Menu Items: Savor delicious food and cocktail specials from the Inn on Boltwood.

Additionally, the Amherst Fire Department will be present with their fire truck, offering fire safety information and an opportunity to meet Sparky the Fire Pup.