Every winter, the small village of Argenta, just outside Decatur, hosts an Illinois ice festival that boasts dozens of cool sculptures carved with chilling precision. Why not head to the central part of the state and see for yourself?
The Argenta IceFest is a growing central Illinois tradition that started in 2017.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook Each year has seen more sculptures and increasing numbers of attendees.
The festival was spearheaded by master ice carver and Argenta native Aaric Kendall.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook Kendall won a gold medal for ice carving in the cultural olympiad that was part of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. He has also won the U.S. national championship in the event, as well as several other ice carving awards.
Back in his hometown, Kendall and other talented ice carvers put on a master class every winter.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook
Folks come from all around to see the artisans at work as they put on live ice carving demonstrations for their hardy fans.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook
Each year, the carvers produce two dozen, or so, sculptures that are displayed in Prairie Park and throughout downtown Argenta.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook
Although the festival, itself, only lasts for one day, the sculptures remain on display for as long as the weather allows.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook Many are dramatically lighted for maximum effect during long winter evenings.
It’s not all about ice, though. Event organizers add a little heat to the day with a chili cook-off - the results of which will help to keep you warm as you watch the sculptures emerge from the ice.
Argenta IceFest/Facebook
Another Illinois winter tradition you may want to check out is the annual Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition that’s held every January in Rockford. It takes place a couple of weeks before the Argenta IceFest, so you could even visit both events! Have you had a chance to marvel at the ice sculptures at the Argenta IceFest? What are some of your other favorite winter festivals in the Land of Lincoln?
Argenta IceFest/Facebook
Each year has seen more sculptures and increasing numbers of attendees.
Kendall won a gold medal for ice carving in the cultural olympiad that was part of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. He has also won the U.S. national championship in the event, as well as several other ice carving awards.
Many are dramatically lighted for maximum effect during long winter evenings.
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Address: Argenta, IL 62501, USA
