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Experience the 2025 Belfast Ice Festival & Maine State Ice Carving Championship – February 21-23

Writer's picture: Gerry CaronGerry Caron

The 2025 Belfast Ice Festival & Maine State Ice Carving Championship: A Winter Wonderland of Ice & Fun

An ice carving of a dog at the 2025 Belfast Maine State Championships

Experience the Magic 2025 Belfast Ice Festival & Maine State Ice Carving Championship

Join us in downtown for the 2025 Belfast Ice Festival & Maine State Ice Carving Championship from February 21 to February 23, 2025, for an unforgettable winter weekend filled with stunning ice sculptures, exhilarating competitions, and vibrant community events. The Ice Festival is the perfect way to get out of the house this winter and enjoy all that Maine has to offer.


Ice Sculptures & Ice Bars

Stroll through downtown Belfast to admire intricate ice sculptures crafted by talented artists. Stop by one of the festival's popular ice bars to enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, there's no better time to experience the charm of downtown Belfast.


State of Maine Ice Carving Championship

The festival proudly hosts the 4th Annual State of Maine Ice Carving Championship, where skilled carvers compete to create dazzling works of art from crystal-clear blocks of ice.


Competition Details:

  • Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025

  • Location: Corner of Main and Cross Streets, across from Rollies Bar and Grill (event sponsor)

  • Categories: Hand Tools and Mechanical Tools (new in 2025!)

  • Schedule:

    • Hand Tool Carving: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

    • Mechanical Tool Carving: Noon to 2:00 p.m.

    • Judging: 2:00 p.m. sharp

  • Participants: Open to amateur and professional solo or team carvers

  • Entry Fee: $15 per team or solo carver

  • Prizes: Cash prizes awarded for first, second, and third place

  • Tools & Materials: Ice and pedestals provided; carvers must bring their own tools.


Outdoor Activities & Local Attractions

Belfast offers a variety of activities to make your weekend unforgettable:

  • Ice skating and winter sports

  • Horse-drawn wagon rides

  • Warm meals and treats at local cafes and restaurants

  • Unique shopping experiences in charming downtown stores


Sponsorship Opportunities

The Ice Festival is made possible by sponsor support and dedicated volunteers. Businesses and individuals can participate through:

  • Full Ice Sculpture Sponsorship

  • Partial Ice Sculpture Sponsorship


Visit Belfast Year-Round

Downtown Belfast is a destination for all seasons, but winter transforms it into a magical wonderland. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and creativity on display at the 2025 Ice Festival.


Event Information

  • When: February 21–23, 2025

  • Where: Downtown Belfast, Maine

  • Contact:

    (207) 218-1158

    director@ourtownbelfast.org

    82 Main Street, Belfast, ME 04915

    Mail: PO Box 103, Belfast, ME 04915

  • For more details or sponsorship opportunities, visit the official event page or contact event organizers.


What to Do in Moosehead Lake

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.

  • Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.

  • Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.

  • Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River










Mark your calendars and come celebrate winter in Belfast at this exciting community event—we can't wait to see you there!

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