Celebrate the cold with FestivICE

As temperatures approached record highs on Thursday, preparations got underway for a weekend celebrating winter in downtown York.

Temperatures will drop again for the third annual FestivICE event on Saturday, which will feature several creations by ice artists from DiMartino Ice Co., including a 40-foot ice slide, according to a news release.

Workers began unloading their materials on Thursday and will work through almost 20,000 pounds of ice for the event, according to the release.

The event, presented by York Traditions Bank, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Cherry Lane and North Beaver Street and is free to the public.

On top of the ice slide and sculptures, revelers can learn the “Yeti stomp line-dance” from performers with Weary Arts Group, go bowling with frozen turkeys and compete in a wing-eating contest, according to the release.

There will also be a hockey skills competition, face painting, balloon art and guest appearances from “Frozen” princesses Ana and Elsa, as well as fire pits and s’mores kits.

CGA Law firm will sponsor a stage for three local bands to provide live music for the event, according to the release.

FestivICE is the first of four annual community events planned by Eventive, the event planning and production vision of the York Revolution. With the partnership of York Traditions Bank, the organization also puts on July4York, the York Halloween Parade and Brews & Skews each year.

Restaurants and bars in the area, including Central Market, will remain open during the event.