Event Schedule

Join us for an incredible milestone – 20 years of unforgettable family fun, vibrant community gatherings, and stunning ice carvings, all set against the backdrop of the Energetic City! Read on to discover how we’re making our 20th anniversary celebration of High on Ice Winter Fest truly special! Most of the listed activities are free, however, some activities require pre-registration (R) and a few require payment to participate ($).

Helpful hints to enjoy High on Ice

• Dress WARM! Layers, toques, gloves, and mittens are a must.
• Stay out of Centennial Park during site prep – tools and machinery are in use.
• Review all event details on this page – be prepared!
• Explore activities in Centennial Park, around the community, and at local businesses – there's so much to do!
• Supervise children closely, especially near the ice slides, to ensure their safety.
• Respect the sculptures – avoid crossing stanchions or barricades to touch the ice.

The 2025 High on Ice Winter Fest is proudly presented by Peace Country Rentals with support from the following organizations:

Alta Gas	Brandt	Pembina Pipeline
Surerus Pipeline Inc.	Safety Boss	Torumaline Oil Corp.
Sound in Town	Freelend Enterprises

Opening Evening in Centennial Park at a Glance:

Get ready to kick off the festival with an exciting lineup of activities in Centennial Park! Here’s a sneak peek at all the fun awaiting you on opening evening, Friday, February 14, starting at 4 PM!

• MNP Ice slides officially open at 4pm
• Professional “Single Block” quick carve competition from 4-6pm
• Free hot chocolate in the Centennial Park tents from ALTA Gas until 8pm
• The Lorax Storywalk – explore incredible ice carvings inspired by this beloved classic
• Mini golf and interactive ice games
• Optik: Interactive Light Exhibit in the formal gardens 
• Fun at Festival Plaza: Warm up with Popcorn, crafts, and carnival games in Festival Plaza

Fun at Festival Plaza (Friday)

Warm up with popcorn, crafts, and carnival games in Festival Plaza.
Read on for information about our Saturday & Sunday edition
of this toasty tradition.

	Friday, February 14
	4 PM - 6 PM
	Festival Plaza

Single Block Carving Competition

Watch our professional carving team battle it out for the coveted first place peoples choice awards, graciously sponsored by Home 2 Suites. Each artist has two hours and a single block of ice to craft a masterpiece in the heart of the park. Throughout the weekend, the community is invited to cast their vote for their favorite sculpture. Learn more about the carvers here:
Meet the Carvers.

	Friday, February 14
	4 PM - 6 PM
	Centennial Park

MNP Ice Slides

The MNP Ice Slides are back! Each year our carving team and site crew work diligently to build fun (and fast) slides for the community! Thank you to our ongoing sponsor MNP for supporting the highlight of the festival!

 Please remember the following rules when enjoying the ice slides:

• STAY OFF THE SLIDES UNTIL THEY ARE OFFICIALLY OPEN FEBRUARY 14 at 4pm!
• Parental supervision is required for all children on the ice slides
• Ice Slides are subject to be closed if City staff deems them unsafe or they require maintenance
• Use the proper entrance to the ice slides (do not climb up the slides, up the back of the snow pile, or between the slides)
• Ensure your children wait their turn to use the ice slides
• Crazy carpets and other sleds are not permitted on the ice slides
• Dress appropriately for the ice slides (snow pants preferred)
• Small children are encouraged to wear helmets

	February 14 - 17
	Open Friday at 4 PM until weather permits
	Centennial Park

McElhanney Slide Counter Contest

Can we beat 12,695 slides this year??

Our friends at McElhanney are back to count how many people brave the ice slides this festival weekend! Want to boost the numbers? Take a slide to help boost the numbers, then visit our information tent to guess how many people will have used the slides by the end of Family Day weekend. The closest guess wins a prize!

	February 14 - 17
	Friday 4 PM - Monday 6 PM
	Centennial Park On the Ice Slides

AltaGas Presents: Free Hot Chocolate

Nothing says winter fun like a cup of classic hot chocolate! Thanks to the crew from AltaGas, you can enjoy a delicious warm drink without leaving the action in Centennial Park! Head to the info tent on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday to enjoy a complimentary hot drink while supplies last! Free hot chocolate is brought to you in partnership with AltaGas, the City of Fort St. John and Tasty Dogs concession!

	February 14 - 16
	Friday: 4 PM - 8 PM Saturday: 11 AM - 3 PM Sunday: 11 AM - 3 PM
	Centennial Park

Co-op & Canadian Tire Present: Optik

A new interactive installation is coming to Fort St. John! Explore the Formal Gardens and immerse yourself in the lights and sounds of Optik. This installation features ten 6-foot-tall, gyroscope-like structures, each offering a unique opportunity to create vibrant cascades of color patterns. As you interact with the structures, rhythmic sounds enhance the experience. Optik will be on display in the park from February 14 through March 2 — don’t miss this exciting, interactive experience! Optik was created by “The Urban Conga” in collaboration with Serge Maheu and produced by Creos!

	February 14 - March 2
	Open Friday at 4 PM
	Centennial Park Formal Gardens

Opening Remarks, Mayor & Council Slide-off, and Fire Show

Join us at the stage to officially kick off the festivities, hosted by MC Dub from Energetic City. Enjoy remarks from the Mayor, meet the talented carving team, and witness the lighting of the single block sculptures. Watch as Mayor Hansen and Council take to the MNP Ice Slides for the annual “Council Slide-Off” with Frozen John! The Opening Ceremonies will conclude with a thrilling fire performance on stage, presented by Dream Dance Circus.

	Friday, February 14
	6 PM Fire Show at approximately 6:20 PM
	Centennial Park Stage

Music & Mircobrew (Friday)

Presented by Bruised Orange Productions, we invite everyone for an all ages evening of Live Music at the Festival Plaza featuring these talented local artists:

• 7-8pm: Joseph te Bulte
• 8-9pm: ellescriv
• 9-10pm: Matt Stanyer

Plus, the crew from Beard’s Brewing will be serving pizza and delicious pints from their local selection of craft brews. All ages are welcome, but you must be 19+ with a valid ID to purchase alcohol. Drinks must stay inside the plaza. Pizza and beer are available for purchase, so come ready to enjoy these tasty treats!

	Friday, February 14
	Friday 7 - 10 PM
	Festival Plaza

Community Ice Block Carving Workshop (R)($)

Want to learn to carve like the pros? We have a great opportunity to get outdoors and embrace winter living with professional ice carver - Ryan Cook! In this workshop participants will learn the art of ice carving, using the same tools the professionals use and network with the carving team! This year, this workshop takes place during the event weekend. Register online or in person at the Fort St. John Visitor Centre.

	February 15 & 16
	Saturday 10:30 AM - 3 PM Sunday 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
	Centennial Park

Live Carve with Dmitry Klimenko (Saturday)  

Watch the ice chips fly as one of the festival’s favourite carvers turns a block of ice into a masterpiece! Dmitry Klimenko is coming all the way from Russia to bring is artistic skills to Fort St. John. Watch this incredibly talented and unique artist work his magic right before your eyes! Be sure you obey all signs and stay behind the fence because this guy makes ice shards sail!  

Can’t make it to the park or just not a fan of the cold? Watch the carve live on our City of Fort St. John YouTube Channel! Estimated carver time is 2-2.5 hours. Read on for details on our Sunday Live Carve Event. 

	Saturday, February 15
	10 AM
	Centennial Park Stage/YouTube

Fun at Festival Plaza (Saturday)

Our Saturday Fun at Festival Plaza will feature balloon twisting, face painting, food, crafts, games, and more! Warm up indoors and even enjoy lunch for purchase provided by Eateteria.

	Saturday, February 15
	Friday 2 - 6 PM
	Festival Plaza

Urban Systems Lil' Chippers Wall

Urban Systems is excited to present the Lil' Chippers Wall! Join our recreation staff and volunteers for a fun, interactive experience where kids (with parental supervision) can play, chip, and create with ice. Our talented carvers will also make occasional stops to join in the fun throughout the weekend. This creative space offers a variety of sculpting tools, ice paint, ice picks, stencils, and more, providing the perfect opportunity for young artists to explore and create something beautiful.

	February 15 & 16
	11 AM - 4 PM
	Centennial Park Formal Gardens

Dream Dance Circus Glow in the Dark Show & Roving Entertainment

The talented troupe from Dream Dance Circus will be showcasing live performances throughout Centennial Park! Join us at the Performance Oval Amphitheater, located next to the Festival Plaza, at 6 pm for an exciting Glow in the Dark Show. Afterward, the performers will move to the Formal Gardens, where they will continue to entertain you amidst the stunning Optik light display.

	Saturday, February 15
	6 PM
	Festival Plaza Performance Oval

Music & Mircobrew (Saturday)

Looking for a unique way to spend your Saturday night? Head to the Festival Plaza for live performances presented by Bruised Orange Productions from talented local musicians:

•  7-8pm: Jody Peck
• 8-10pm: Big Fancy

 While you take in the tunes, enjoy a frosty brew from the pros at Mighty Peace Brewing. All ages are welcome, but you must be 19+ with a valid ID to purchase alcohol. Drinks must stay inside the plaza. Food and beer are available for purchase, so come ready to enjoy these tasty treats!

	Saturday, February 15
	Friday 7 - 10 PM
	Festival Plaza

Live Carve with Susanne Ruseler (Sunday)  

	Saturday, February 16
	10 AM
	Centennial Park Stage/YouTube

Fun at Festival Plaza (Sunday)

Our Sunday Fun at Festival Plaza will feature balloon twisting, face painting, food, crafts, games, and more! Warm up indoors and even enjoy lunch for purchase provided by Eateteria.

	Sunday, February 16
	Friday 2 PM - 6 PM
	Festival Plaza

Fire & Ice Closing Ceremony

Join us on Sunday, starting at 5 pm, as we bring the festival weekend to a close. Visit the Just Jacks Tent for FREE hot chocolate and chili, available from 5-6pm or while supplies last. Please note, only one bowl of chili per person.

 At 6pm, MC Dubb will take the stage to announce the winners of the Single Block Ice Carving Competition and recognize our event supporters. Following that, Mayor Hansen will return to officially launch the Fire & Ice show, featuring the lighting of a sculpture followed by its dramatic collapse—marking the end of the festival, though the fun doesn’t stop there!

	Sunday, February 16
	5 PM
	Centennial Park Stage

Karaoke Night

Show off your singing talents (or lack there of) at Winter Fest! We’re excited to partner with the North Peace Fil-Can Community Bayanihan Association to bring you a night of FREE karaoke. This event is open to all ages, food will be available for purchase.

	Sunday, February 16
	7 PM - 10 PM
	Festival Plaza

BC Family Fun Day

As the festival winds down, the fun continues at Centennial Park! Recreation staff will be on-site offering a variety of free activities, including ice sculptures, ice slides, and carvings, available as long as weather conditions allow.

	Moday, February 17
	11am - 3pm
	Centennial Park

The following Winter Fest activities are happening outside of the Park Play area. These activities are planned and run or sponsored by organizations and businesses in our community with support from the City events team. Most of the listed activities are free, however, some activities require pre-registration (R) and a few require payment to participate ($).

FREE Escape Room (R)

Looking for an engaging indoor activity? Amazing Escapes is offering two complimentary evenings of fun for all! Pre-booking is required for both Thursday, February 13 and Thursday, February 20 between 5-10pm. Please note that reservations must be made online at https://amazing-escapes.ca/ in advance—walk-ins will not be accepted. Secure your spot today for an unforgettable experience!

	February 13 & 20
	Various Times
	Amazing Escapes

VIVE Spin Studio Winter Wonderrides (R)

It’s cold outside, but not at Vive! Vive is hosting FREE Spin Classes on Friday, February 14. They have 3 Winter Wonderrides to celebrate this year’s High on Ice 20^th anniversary. Everyone 13+ is welcome to attend, no membership required.  Each rider will get a glass from the team at Vandal Projects, to fuel them for the rest of the day.  There will also be some light snack options for you to enjoy at the studio after the classes. Pre-registration directly through VIVE is required, sign up today on the Mind Body App or online https://www.vivespinstudio.com

	Friday, February 14
	6:15 AM -7 AM (45 min)  9:15 AM - 10:05 AM (50 min)  12:10 PM - 12:50 PM (40 min)
	VIVE Spin Studio

Free Snowshoe Rentals (Friday, Saturday & Sunday)

It's the perfect time of year to bundle up, get outside and enjoy free snowshoe rentals from Friday through Sunday during High on Ice. Snowshoes are available to sign out at the Visitor Centre located in the Pomeroy Sport Centre. With five sizes available to borrow, this activity is perfect for the whole family. Rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. Don't forget to grab the Snowshoe Information Brochure at the Visitor Centre while you're there. Also, a friendly reminder if you use the trails at Beatton Park, make sure you stay off the groomed ski trails, there are trails dedicated to snow shoeing.

	February 14 - 16
	Regular Business Hours
	Fort St. John Visitor Centre

Free Museum Scavenger Hunt 

Discover the rich history of winter sports and games in Fort St. John through a fun and engaging scavenger hunt! While you’ve likely heard of ice hockey and speed skating, have you experienced the excitement of the 2x4 A-Go-Go or Snow Golf? Explore the museum, searching for sports-related photographs and artifacts, and uncover fascinating facts and stories behind these items. After completing the scavenger hunt, choose from a selection of prizes to commemorate your experience. Prefer to explore at your own pace? Feel free to tour the museum on your own. Enjoy FREE admission all weekend long!

	Friday, February 14	Saturday, February 15	Monday, February 17
	9 AM - 5 PM	11 AM - 4 PM	1 PM - 4 AM
	Fort St. John North Peace Museum

Free Public Skating (Friday, Saturday, & Sunday)

Thank you to the gang from Tourmaline Oil Corp. for sponsoring Friday and Saturday public skates and to PETRONAS Canada for sponsoring our Sunday Free Skates. Skate rentals are available directly through Hard Edge Sports during their regular operating hours.

	Friday February 14	Saturday February 15	Sunday February 16
	4 - 7pm	4 - 7pm	1:30pm - 3:30pm 4:30pm - 6:30p
	Pomeroy Sport Centre 2nd floor Oval

Mukluk Bonspiel (R)($)

The annual Mukluk Bonspiel is happening again at the Curling Club! This sporting event includes Friday night team activities and a dinner and dance on Saturday night. For more info about spectating, to learn more about the dinner and dance or to register your mixed team, email: fsjcurlingclub@telus.net.

	February 14 & 15
	Various times
	FSJ Curling Club

Laugh Your Ice Off Comedy Night ($)

LAUGH YOUR ICE OFF COMEDY FEST IS BACK!! Damonde Tschritter, and Sean Lecomber will be hitting the Lido stage! This is a 19+ event, tickets are available online, so grab yours today! https://www.thelido.ca/upcoming-events

	February 14 & 15
	8 PM - 10 PM
	Lido Theatre

Diamond Art Painting (R)

Join the Fort St. John Association for Community Living for a free diamond art painting! There are different opportunities to get creative with friends and family members on February 15 between 10am-2pm. Each participant will receive a fun diamond painting kit (pictures will vary) and learn how to create beautifully designed art in a welcoming and diverse group of individuals. All experiences are encouraged and welcomed! Registration process / details: Online here, email reception@fsjacl.com or call 250-787-9262.

	Saturday, February 15
	Various times
	Association for Community Living

Makers Market with the North Peace Cultural Society

Join the North Peace Cultural Centre for the inaugural Makers Market on Saturday during High on Ice Winter Fest. This exciting event will feature a diverse collection of local artisans, handmakers, artists, and vendors, offering a variety of unique goods and sharing their passion with the community. Henna Designs by Shahab will be offering FREE henna tattoos for children and women (all youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, this activity will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last).

Are you interested in becoming a vendor? Participate in the market for FREE! Email the North Peace Cultural Society at accounting@npcc.bc.ca, reception@npcc.bc.ca, or call 250-785-1992

	Saturday, February 15
	10 AM - 2 PM
	North Peace Cultural Centre

Surerus Pipeline Inc. Presents: Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides

Get ready to enjoy this classic Winter Fest event! Horse-drawn sleigh rides, sponsored by Surerus Pipeline Inc. and presented by the Northern Horse Mule & Harness Association in partnership with Ride for the Disabled, offer a charming way to experience the beauty of Kin Park. Whether you're gathering with family, friends, or planning a unique Valentine’s outing, these free rides are a must-see. Limited parking is available in the lot on 96th Street. Please dress warm for this activity! Riders are welcome to bring blankets along for the ride.

	February 15 & 16
	11am - 3pm
	Kin Park

Beading Class with the Fort St. John Métis Society (R)

Join the Fort St. John Métis Society for a unique opportunity to explore and celebrate Métis art and culture. They are hosting a complimentary beading class where you’ll learn the intricate art of Métis flower beadwork. Space is limited to just 20 participants, so be sure to register to secure your spot. This is a unique chance to not only learn beading skills, but also gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance behind the designs. Please RSVP to fsjmetis@telus.net to ensure that there is space for you to attend. There will be hotdogs and pop available for purchase at the event.

	February 15 & 16
	12 PM - 4 PM
	Fort St. John Métis Society

Pip N Peck Outdoor Farm Experience (R)

Experience the charm of rural Baldonnel with a unique outdoor farm visit, where you'll have the opportunity to meet a variety of friendly four-legged animals, including donkeys, a pig, a llama, horses, and farm dogs. Capture the moment with the picturesque backdrop of a century-old barn, perfect for photos. For those seeking professional portraits, photography services are available for an additional fee. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of organic farmlands, and feel free to bring your own snowshoes or cross-country skis to explore the terrain. Afterward, unwind with a hot beverage by the fire. A portable washroom will be available on-site for your convenience. Please note that the terrain may not be suitable for wheelchair access. Individuals with physical barriers are encouraged to contact the owners for further information and assistance.

For more information or to register direct message: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088232686832

	February 15 - 17
	1 PM - 5 PM
	Baldonnel Rd.

Northern Adaptive Sport Association: Try ParaHockey

Join us for an exciting opportunity to experience Para Hockey, hosted by the Northern Adaptive Sport Association! This FREE drop-in session offers participants the chance to try this incredible sport, played at the Paralympic level by skilled athletes using sledges propelled with their arms. All equipment is provided, but please note that sledges are limited for this highly popular activity. To ensure everyone gets a turn, we kindly ask participants to share the equipment. This engaging sport is open to all ages! Simply drop in with clean shoes for the ice. Helmets are mandatory for all participants, and those with access to hockey equipment are encouraged to bring their own helmet, gloves, and elbow pads.

	Saturday, February 15
	3 PM - 4:30 PM
	Pomeroy Sport Centre - West Rink

Riffle Marksmanship Youth & Ladies Open House

Families are welcome to join the Youth and Ladies Open House at the North Peace Rod & Gun Club and learn the sport of rifle marksmanship. Volunteers will be on hand to guide participants through the fundamentals of shooting sports and provide an overview of the club’s facilities and offerings for the community. The indoor range will be available, with the possibility of outdoor range access depending on weather conditions. Please note that while our outdoor facilities are fully accessible, the basement shooting range is not wheelchair accessible.

	Sunday, February 16
	10 AM - 4 PM
	North Peace Rod & Gun Club

SnowyDream Siberian Huskies Meet & Greet (R)

A northern legend, the Siberian Husky is a breed renowned for its ability to endure long distances in the harshest winter conditions. Do you have a passion for dogs? Are you eager to get up close and personal with these beloved northern companions? SnowyDream Siberians invites you to join them for a unique opportunity to meet their 27 Siberian Huskies. Participants will learn about the breed, discover sledding terms and equipment, and enjoy plenty of husky snuggles! Please note, the event will be cancelled if temperatures drop below -25°C.

Reservations open on February 1, 2025, and spaces will fill quickly. To book your spot, please email: hoihuskies@hotmail.com.

	Sunday, February 16
	11 AM - 4 PM
	Charlie Lake

Brandt Presents: Free Bouncing Beans Session

Looking for a fun place for your kids (ages 1-14) to burn off some energy on Family Day Weekend? Join us for an extended Bouncing Beans at the Kids Arena Fieldhouse during Winter Fest. Your little ones can enjoy playing with sports gear, building forts, socializing, and bouncing around in bouncy castles! Child supervision is required, and remember to bring indoor shoes or clean socks for everyone.

	Sunday, February 16
	11 AM - 2 PM
	Kids Arena Fieldhouse

Archery Experience with the New Totem Archery Club

Join New Totem Archery for a hands-on archery experience with the knowledgeable volunteers from the club. They will provide expert instruction on range safety and share information about the club’s offerings. Archery is a highly inclusive sport, welcoming individuals with physical or cognitive barriers, making it an excellent choice for people of all abilities. Discover why archery is a fantastic sport for the whole family to enjoy, and relax afterwards with a warm beverage and a snack.

	Sunday, February 16
	12 PM - 5 PM
	Radisson Hotel Alexander Ballroom

Free Swimming

Enjoy free public swimming on Sunday & Monday of Family Day Weekend! Thank you to the gang from Tourmaline Oil Corp. for sponsoring our Community FREE Swim every Sunday and Pembina Pipelines for sponsoring our FREE Family Day Swim!

	Sunday, February 16	Monday, February 17
	1 - 4 PM	1 - 4 PM
	North Peace Leisure Pool

Ice Cube Open Cribbage Tournament ($)(R)

This exciting doubles tournament welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you team up with a friend, family member, or grandparent, come enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of cribbage. With three divisions to choose from, each team is guaranteed eight games, ensuring plenty of opportunities to compete and enjoy the game.

Space is limited—register now to secure your spot! https://www.thelido.ca

	Sunday, February 16
	1 PM - 4 PM
	Lido Theatre

Bring Your Own Snowshoes Tour

The Fort St. John Chamber of Commerce invites participants to an informative introduction to snowshoeing. This session will cover essential topics such as selecting snowshoes and equipment, packing essentials, trip planning, and trail etiquette. Participants will also take part in a guided snowshoe walk through Kin Park, where they will learn how to create trails and properly walk in snowshoes. Printed materials will be provided for all attendees. Snowshoes are available for sign-out at the Fort St. John Public Library with a library card (during operational hours) or can be rented for FREE from the Visitor Centre during the High on Ice Winter Fest weekend. Please note that the Visitor Centre will be closed on Family Day, so participants wishing to rent snowshoes from the Visitor Centre should plan accordingly. Weather-dependent activity.

	Monday, February 17
	10 AM: Meet at the Pavilion 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Presentation
	Kin Park

Fort St. John & Area Senior Care Foundation Party

Join the Fort St. John & Area Senior Care Foundation for some fun, they will have musicians, Karaoke, dancing, bingo, and prizes. Pizza and refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome to attend this event.

	Monday, February 17
	6:30 PM - 9 PM
	Fort St. John & Area Senior Care Foundation  9907 110 Avenue - Apartment #3