Bloomington- Winter is more than just sledding and hot cocoa. Bloomington’s Freeze Fest is an event for families to get out and see something new in the state’s less hospitable weather. Attendees can enjoy the season’s charm through various cold-weather-themed attractions, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.
Be sure to visit downtown Bloomington and enjoy food, music, ice carving, games, and more. The event takes place around Upland Brewing Company on 11th Street and the Mill on Madison Street. Ice sculptures will be displayed for all to see and some to interact with.
Below is a schedule of events, which are subject to change at any time:
Thursday, January 18
11:00 am – 7:00 pm Ice sculpting
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Planted Food Truck on Madison Street (North)
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm Far Out Boba Food Truck on Madison Street (North)
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm   2024 Chilly Cook-Off: The Chilly Cook-Off features chefs from our local community and allows you to try samples and vote for your favorite chili. Tickets are $15.00 and include portions of up to 24 chilis, complementary crackers, water, and tea. Interested in being a chef? Fill out the registration form by January 8. There is space for up to 24 chefs. The Cook-Off will occur inside the Event Hall (inside The Mill).
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Chocolate Moose Ice Cream in Mill Cafe (inside The Mill)
IU basketball Player Carvings and Photo Backdrop
Friday, January 19
11:00 am – 7:00 pm Ice sculpting, Interactive games
11:00 am – 7:00 pm Planted and Jay’s Kitchen Food Trucks on Madison Street (North)
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm Ice skating rink on Madison Street (South) $5
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm Coloring contest gallery in the Event Hall
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Lemon drop pop-up shop at the Mill Cafe
7:00 pm B-Town Ice Battle on Upland Brewing Company outdoor stage (all ages). Watch talented ice carvers race against the clock to turn a block of ice into a sculpted masterpiece as they battle for the coveted Golden Chainsaw
Saturday, January 20
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Sculpture Board Walk, Ice Games, Kid’s Slides, Photo Area
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Ice skating rink on Madison Street (South) $5
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Bloomington Martial Arts Wheel/Hot Chocolate Station at the Event Hall
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Pili’s Party Taco and Little Bowl Thai Food Truck on Madison Street (North)
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Coloring contest art gallery at the Event Hall
11:00 am – 1:00 pm S’mores making stations
11:00 am – 2:00 pm Cookie Decorating in the Event Hall
11:00 am – 2:00 pm Prize winners posted at the Event Hall
11:00 am – 2:00 pm Chocolate Moose Ice Cream at the Mill Cafe
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Winterpalooza at Switchyard Park ($5)
