Experience the Magic of Vail Winterfest
Each winter, the town of Vail transforms into an enchanting wonderland of art and ice, and this year’s 18th Annual Vail Winterfest – Night Owls promises to be one of the most captivating yet. Running from January 10 through mid-February, this beloved public art event, presented by Vail’s Art in Public Places, will turn the Gore Creek Promenade into a luminous landscape of hand-carved ice sculptures.
A Celebration of Art, Nature, and Winter
For nearly two decades, Vail Winterfest has brought together art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and visitors seeking unique winter experiences. This year’s theme, Night Owls, highlights the beauty and mystery of these nocturnal creatures. Carved entirely from ice, the sculptures depict various owl species and are illuminated at night, creating an ethereal and dreamlike setting. A new feature this year is a carefully curated soundscape of owl calls, enhancing the sensory experience as visitors stroll through the promenade.
As Molly Eppard, Art in Public Places Coordinator, notes, "This season we are excited to introduce a soundscape of various owl calls which will be a surprise and delight for all at the 18th Annual Vail Winterfest – Night Owls."
Vail Winterfest 2025 Event Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 2 – Thursday, Jan. 9: Ice Carving in Progress
Watch master ice sculptors at work as they transform blocks of ice into intricate owl sculptures throughout the Gore Creek Promenade.
Friday, Jan. 10: Grand Opening Celebration
📍 Gore Creek Promenade, Vail Village (In front of Mountain Standard)
⏰ 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Live music by DJ Enrique
Warm treats provided by Mountain Standard and Two Arrows (while supplies last)
Official unveiling of the ice sculptures (5:00 p.m.)
Friday, Jan. 24: Meet the Raptors
📍 Colorado Snowsports Museum
⏰ 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. (Presentation: 2:00 – 2:30 p.m.)
Meet real owls up close with the Raptor Education Foundation. Learn about their unique adaptations, hunting techniques, and role in the ecosystem.
Thursday, Jan. 30: Snowy Owl Pinecone Craft Workshop
📍 Colorado Snowsports Museum
⏰ 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Create your own snowy owl-themed craft in this free hands-on workshop. Open to all ages, with instruction beginning every 30 minutes.
Friday, Jan. 31: Meet the Raptors – An Interactive Experience
📍 Vail Public Library Community Room
⏰ 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
In collaboration with the Town of Vail’s Environmental Sustainability Department, Nature’s Educators will introduce visitors to four live owls. This event provides a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent birds up close and learn about conservation efforts.
A Winter Experience Unlike Any Other
The 18th Annual Vail Winterfest is more than just an exhibition; it’s an immersive experience blending art, nature, and education. Whether you visit during the day to appreciate the fine details of the ice carvings or in the evening when the illuminated sculptures create a surreal atmosphere, this event is a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Make Your Vail Getaway Unforgettable with Pop Art Villa
Enhance your Winterfest experience by staying at Pop Art Villa, where luxury meets artistic charm. Our beautifully curated accommodations provide the perfect retreat after a day of winter wonder. Enjoy spacious interiors, modern amenities, and stunning mountain views, all while being minutes away from Vail’s top attractions.
Book your stay at Pop Art Villa today and make your Vail getaway truly unforgettable!