Coloradans have figured out how to make the elements work to our advantage! When it is snowing, we hit the slopes. When it is sunny, we find a way to do everything outdoors. When there is a big chunk of ice, we sculpt it into something spectacular! If you are intrigued by the latter, we invite you to attend the Rio Frio Ice Festival in Colorado that is nothing short of magical:

Taking place January 27th through the 29th, 2023, is the annual Rio Frio Ice Festival!

Rio Races Facebook

Located in Alamosa, the Rio Frio pays homage to all things winter and boasts a packed schedule complete with intricate ice carvings.

Rio Races Facebook

Beginning at noon on Saturday, January 28th, the ice carving segment of the festival showcases some of the state’s most talented sculptors, who will demonstrate their craft based on the festival’s annual theme (TBA).

Rio Races Facebook

Even if you can’t make it to Main Street on Saturday at noon, be sure to swing by later on in the festival to see some of the finished sculptures! 

Rio Races Facebook

If you think the icy fun ends at the sculptures, think again, as the Rio Frio also hosts a 5K atop the frozen Rio Grande River.

Rio Races Facebook The Rio Frio 5k begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

In addition to all of the above, the Rio Frio runs a beautiful Cross Country Luminara Ski, Polar Plunge, Fire and Ice Bonfire, Ice Carousel and skating, fat bike races, and other fun surprises.

Rio Races Facebook

Bring the kids, as there is something for everyone to enjoy at this magical wintertime tradition.

Rio Races Facebook

To learn more about the Rio Frio Ice Fest - or to register for one of its many memorable events - please visit their website.

Rio Races Facebook

Do you have a favorite event, attraction, or restaurant that you would like to see featured here on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! While you are in Alamosa, be sure also to check out The All-You-Can-Eat Mexican Food Buffet In Colorado You Never Knew You Needed.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Alamosa, CO 81101, USA

Taking place January 27th through the 29th, 2023, is the annual Rio Frio Ice Festival!

Rio Races Facebook

Located in Alamosa, the Rio Frio pays homage to all things winter and boasts a packed schedule complete with intricate ice carvings.

Rio Races Facebook

Beginning at noon on Saturday, January 28th, the ice carving segment of the festival showcases some of the state’s most talented sculptors, who will demonstrate their craft based on the festival’s annual theme (TBA).

Rio Races Facebook

Even if you can’t make it to Main Street on Saturday at noon, be sure to swing by later on in the festival to see some of the finished sculptures! 

Rio Races Facebook

If you think the icy fun ends at the sculptures, think again, as the Rio Frio also hosts a 5K atop the frozen Rio Grande River.

Rio Races Facebook The Rio Frio 5k begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

In addition to all of the above, the Rio Frio runs a beautiful Cross Country Luminara Ski, Polar Plunge, Fire and Ice Bonfire, Ice Carousel and skating, fat bike races, and other fun surprises.

Rio Races Facebook

Bring the kids, as there is something for everyone to enjoy at this magical wintertime tradition.

Rio Races Facebook

To learn more about the Rio Frio Ice Fest - or to register for one of its many memorable events - please visit their website.

Rio Races Facebook

Do you have a favorite event, attraction, or restaurant that you would like to see featured here on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! While you are in Alamosa, be sure also to check out The All-You-Can-Eat Mexican Food Buffet In Colorado You Never Knew You Needed.

Rio Races Facebook

The Rio Frio 5k begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday.