Winter has officially arrived in New Hampshire. Although, many of you living near the mountains could have told us that months ago! It’s always a little hard to transition from the warm months to the cold, but there are a few things that make it a little easier. Fresh powder for skiing, cozy fires and warm cups of tea while reading a book are all things we love about the season. But this incredible attraction that happens each year in the Granite State might be what we love most about winter’s arrival!
Welcome to this year’s Ice Castles in North Woodstock! This just might be the most awe-inspiring winter attraction you’ll visit all year.
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And this year’s colors and magnificence somehow feels even more impressive than what we saw in 2019.
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The origin story of this magical attraction is actually a pure devotion of love. It was conceived by Brent Christensen who created complex ice structures for his daughter in his Utah front yard back in 2000.
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The neighbors noticed and people asked for their own versions. Soon, the demand grew strong enough to re-create the ice castles in Canada, Colorado, Minnesota, Utah, Wisconsin and (luckily!) New Hampshire.
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Each year the attraction is created using more than 10,000 icicles per day. That equates to nearly a million throughout the season. Each icicle helps create growth of more ice making the castles take on a life of their own.
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While the structures are planned out in minute detail, the weather plays a role in how large everything becomes. A snowy, rainy, icy year might mean even more impressive castles.
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Every year the castles change, making new caves to explore and allowing for new light displays.
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Add fire throwers to the mix and you have a combination of fire and ice that you won’t find anywhere else.
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At night LED lights make this a show you won’t want to miss.
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But don’t discount visiting when the sun is still up. This is a sight that’s naturally impressive in a whole different way.
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Ice Castles in New Hampshire begins when the weather is cold enough and it’s in full swing right now! You can learn more about the event and how to purchase tickets on their website. Or, check them out on Facebook.
Jennifer S / Google
Aud E / TripAdvisor
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J. Romeo Aldana / Google
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General admission for ages 12 and up is $16.99 Monday through Thursday and $20.99 on Friday and Saturday. Child admission (ages 4-11) is $11.99 on Monday through Thursday and $15.99 on Friday and Saturday.
For more winter wonders in the state visit Franconia Notch State Park which transforms every winter. It’s frozen beauty is unforgettable!
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Address: Ice Castles, 24 Clark Farm Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262, USA