How to Make the Most of Ice Magic
- Dec 20, 2023|
- Events & Festivals
Ice Magic 2024 Event Information:
Dates:
- January 26-27: View the carvers in action as they create their ice sculptures for the 2024 competition
- January 28: Awards ceremony for the 2024 ICe Magic Competition winners, plus live carving demonstration.
- February 2-4: View the completed ice sculptures and watch live carving demonstrations
Times: 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Parking & Shuttles: No parking is available at Lake Louise Lakeshore for this event - except for those guests with disabled access requirements. You will be required to arrive by shuttle, which is included with your ticket purchase.
For the first time since 2020, we are welcoming back world-class ice carvers to the shores of Lake Louise for a re-imagined International Ice Carving Competition. Ice Magic 2024 is a ticketed event, with public viewing slots available each weekend.
A winter sunbeam peeks over the edge of a mountain and catches the ridge of an ice sculpture, illuminating the piece from within. Snowflakes suspended in the air glisten all around you as you pause to take in every intricate detail of the ice carver's piece of art. Perhaps you'll have a chance to see them work right in front of your eyes, transforming a simple block of frozen water into an expression of culture and beauty. Just like the moment, the sculpture is temporary but no less worthy of admiration - it is meant to be savoured simply for what it is.
Magical moments like this abound at the Ice Magic event at Lake Louise, part of the annual SnowDays Festival in Banff National Park. And with a bit of planning ahead of time, you can make the most of this magical experience.
What is Ice Magic in Lake Louise?
Occurring in January, Ice Magic is a world-class outdoor event that brings Canada's top ice carvers together in the epicentre of Banff National Park - Lake Louise. Nestled between the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the frozen shores of Lake Louise itself, frozen blocks of ice are transformed into an exhibition of artistic expression.
How to Attend Ice Magic 2024
Ice Magic is a popular winter event that visitors and locals alike look forward to - and for good reason! This unique experience only happens once a year. To attend Ice Magic, you will need a ticket and a shuttle reservation, which is included with your ticket purchase. Click here to learn more about tickets.
You will be able to attend Ice Magic between 6:00 and 9:00 pm on January 26-28 and February 2-4, 2024. No parking will be available at the Lake Louise Lakeshore for this event.
Remember to dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing - layers, toques, and mittens are a must!
See the Rest of SnowDays in Banff
the giant Ice Magic ice sculptures aren't the only almost unreal artwork you can view at this time. Ice Magic is a part of the wider SnowDays Festival, which starts on January 19, 2024, in the Banff townsite.
During the weekends of Ice Magic, you can also see giant snow sculptures dotted throughout the Banff townsite and have a ripping good time at the PlayZone with snow hills to climb and slide on, as well as a specially-made fatbiking course.
One Part of a Whimsical Winter Itinerary
Before coming up to Ice Magic for your evening timeslot, make the most of your time in the area by staying longer and exploring more of Lake Louise and the surrounding area - it's a winter wonderland of outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Whether visiting with family, friends, or that special someone, here are a few ways to spend a morning or afternoon to complement a visit to Ice Magic. Stop by Wilson Mountain Sports in the village of Lake Louise or Chateau Ski & Snow at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to pick up gear for your activity of choice.
Cross Country Skiing
Some of the national park's best cross-country ski trails are just minutes away from the Ice Magic event. Moraine Lake Road is closed to traffic in winter and trackset specifically for cross country skiers, and the historic Great Divide trail (formerly the old 1A Highway) is just across the road.
Ice Skating
Ice Magic often coincides with the perfect time of year to lace up a pair of skates. And the wild skating arena doesn't get any more quintessentially Canadian than Lake Louise. Even better, you'll have the chance to skate by the iconic Lake Louise Ice Castle, which is set up by the skating rink every year.
Snowshoeing
Some popular summer hiking trails near Lake Louise are also suitable for snowshoeing. Make your way up to the Fairview Lookout for a lesser-seen perspective of Lake Louise. Or, for more of a challenge, make your way up to Mirror Lake via the Lake Agnes trail.
*Not all summer hiking trails are suitable for winter travel due to avalanche risk - refer to Parks Canada's list of recommended snowshoeing trails for more information.
Tubing at Lake Louise Ski Resort
If you have little ones in tow or are looking for a more accessible activity, Lake Louise Ski Resort is just a 10-minute drive away and offers family-friendly tubing. Tube Park is free for kids ages three to five.
Cozy Up with a Warm Drink
Possibly the best way to end a day full of exciting winter adventures is to snuggle up with a warm treat to warm the soul at the day's end. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers several unique dining locales with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy an "adult" hot chocolate at Alpine Social or a classic old-fashioned at Walliser Stube. The Station is also conveniently located near Lake Louise and is a great place to indulge at day's end. Reservations are often necessary at all locations.
More Information
Getting Here
Lake Louise is a 45-minute drive from the town of Banff, located just off the Trans Canada highway. For those with or without a vehicle, consider taking Roam public transit - the Lake Louise/Banff express route runs several times a day.
For those with tickets to Ice Magic, please refer to your ticket type for where to pick up your shuttle in Banff or Lake Louise.
