Franklin Park Conservatory’s Winter Ice Festival: Ice Skating, Carving Competitions & More

Winter is upon us, and one of our favorite spots, the Franklin Park Conservatory, is celebrating the season in spectacular style with their brand-new Winter Ice Festival on January 17th and 18th, 2025. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly winter events in Columbus, Ohio or looking to enjoy ice skating and ice carving competitions, this festival has something special for everyone.

Fire & Ice Ice Carving Competition

From 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM each night, witness an incredible display of creativity and skill as professional ice carvers from Rock-on-Ice compete in the Fire & Ice competition. This ice carving competition in Columbus at Franklin Park Conservatory is a friendly yet fierce showdown where these talented artists carve stunning masterpieces from ice. The best part? You get to cheer for your favorite carver! Choose a side, support your contender, and help them secure those bragging rights.

Ice Skating on the Super Games Synthetic Rink

Lace up your skates (or rent a pair on-site) and glide across the Super Games synthetic ice rink from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM each evening. Whether you’re an experienced skater or trying it out for the first time, their rink offers a fun and festive way to enjoy the winter nights in Franklin Park.

Can’t make the festival nights, but you really want to skate? No worries! Public Ice Skating will be available on Sunday, January 19th and Monday, January 20th, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM as part of general admission.

Capture the Moment

Don’t forget to snap some memorable photos! Step inside their sculpted ice frame and create those perfect Instagram-worthy shots with friends and family. And of course the inside gardens will be open!

Warm Up with Delicious Eats & Drinks

After some chilly fun, warm up with a variety of tasty treats from our on-site food trucks. Grab a cozy beverage at the Watershed Bar, or if you’re keeping up with the ice theme, try a Kona Ice! And if the weather cooperates, you might even get to enjoy a light snowfall while you’re here. That would make it simply magical, right!?

Fun for the Whole Family

Bring the kids along for some winter-themed crafts and games in the Grand Atrium. It’s a perfect way to keep the little ones entertained while you all enjoy the festivities. Plus, the downstairs area has a fun kids area and of course the outdoor kids area!

Bonus: Don’t miss the Frozen Sisters on Saturday, January 18 at 11am & 2pm. Watch the frozen sisters perform on ice, followed by a meet & greet with opportunities to get your picture taken with this famous duo. The program is included in admission. No registration is required.

Pricing & Tickets

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to reserve your tickets in advance. Here’s a quick rundown of the admission rates:

Special Engagement Admission Rates

• Ages 13–59: $26.50
• Seniors (60+): $22.50
• Children (3-12): $16.00
• Museums for All (SNAP, EBT, WIC, Medicaid Participants): $3

Special Engagement Member Rates

• Members (13–59): $13.25
• Senior Members (60+): $11.25
• Child Members (3–12): $8.00
• Access Family Member: $3
• Patron, Benefactor, and Monarch Members: Free!

For more details and to reserve your tickets, visit the Franklin Park Conservatory website.

Step into the Orchid Oasis

When you need a break from the cold, escape inside to their annual Orchid Exhibition. Inspired by the stunning beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, this tropical oasis features over 1,800 orchids across five iconic landscapes. From towering volcanoes to lush rainforests, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and textures that capture the essence of Hawaii’s natural paradise.