Warm Weather Can’t Stop Michigan Ice Sculpture Contests

Despite the warming trends across the state, several Michigan cities won’t skip the usual winter festivities, including traditional Ice Sculpture contests.

Carving the Elephant by Josh Leo

Last week Holland hosted their own contest, and folks came from across the state to try their hand (and saw) at an age-old winter tradition. Teams from Grand Rapids Community College and Oakland Community College competed for top honors. Roving West Michigan video-blogger Josh Leo has the scoop in his excellent Holland Ice Sculpture Contest video.

If you’re in the St. Joseph area next month, be sure to stop by the Third Annual Magical Ice Carving Festival Friday, February 16th and all day Saturday on the 17th. This event will be sanctioned by the National Ice Carving Association (NICA), who will oversee and judge two professional competitions for originality, artistic quality, technique, detail and design. While you’re there, be sure to visit local merchants as they show off their finest.

We know we we missed other Michigan ice carving events – let us know which ones in the comments!