When winter arrives in New Hampshire our first thought is of the first snow. While we might be ready for spring sometime in March there are always those first few weeks when a white coating on the ground feels pretty special. That's why we love this annual event that brings some extra magic to an already sparkly time of year.
Ice Castles in North Woodstock is one of the most wonderful winter activities you can experience each year.
It was started by Brent Christensen in 2000 in an effort to create a magical winter experience for his daughter in their Utah front yard. When the neighbors noticed just how great it was, more ice castles were requested. Eventually, the display drew so much attention that the structures were created in Canada, Colorado, Minnesota, Utah, Wisconsin and, of course, our own New Hampshire.
Each structure begins with icicles. 10,000 per day are necessary for the display at each location. That translates to just about 1,000,000 icicles created for each location each year.
Each castle is planned far in advance and there's a dedicated team to build them. But, every icicle also helps to strengthen the structures and lead to more ice. The more snow and rain we get, the larger each ice castle becomes.
And each year things look completely different making it a new experience every time.
But you can always count on the most incredible LED lights to create an otherworldly feel.
And we love the structures that offer interaction. Things will be just a bit different this year to keep everyone safe. Visitors will be able to experience the caves, sides and tunnels but be prepared to keep six-feet of distance and follow a one-way exploration route for those features.
You'll also need to wear a mask while you explore. But if things stay cold that might make the experience just a little bit warmer!
We love the experience at night, but the daytime offers its own ethereal feel.
This is truly a remarkable attraction that adults and kids will love.
Check it out and remind yourself just how much magic exists out there in this world!
Ice Castles opens when conditions are ideal which is typically in December, though not always. To keep track of opening days and times stay tuned to their website and Facebook. The event takes place in a few different states so be sure to check dates for New Hampshire. The cost of admission varies by day of the week. From Monday through Thursday tickets are $19.99 for ages 12 and up and $14.99 for ages 4 to 11. From Friday through Sunday tickets are $24.99 for ages 12 and up and $19.99 for ages 4 to 11.
Looking for more ways to make this season special? Dine inside a private igloo with your very own fireplace at the 1750 Taphouse in New Hampshire.
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