Ice Castles Opens the Frozen Gates Tonight

December 26, 2025, Falcon Heights, Minnesota – The frozen gates will open at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds to welcome guests for the first time over the holiday season. Ice Castles will open tonight, Friday, December 26 at 4 p.m.

Despite the recent warm-up, favorable winter temperatures and the skill of our ice artisans have allowed us to open our winter wonderland on the earliest date ever in Minnesota.

Guests will be able to step into a world of magic and wonder, exploring a landscape filled with ice slides, towers, tunnels, and caverns. The experience features stunning new sculptures crafted by internationally renowned ice sculptors. Explore snow caverns, nightly fire shows that add a clash of fire and ice as flames and experience the thrill of a multiple lane tubing hill.

“We are excited to open the icy gates in our Minnesota location with a historic December debut,” said Kyle Standifird, CEO of Ice Castles. “Celebrating 15 years, we’re proud to welcome guests into a beautifully crafted castle over the holiday season amidst the natural setting at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.”

The icy fortress also features a frosty twist with the Frozen Tap Ice Bar—the coolest spot in town to enjoy beverages in a one-of-a-kind ice bar experience. Guests can also warm up with hot drinks and indulgent sweet treats available at on-site concessions.

Ice Castles plans to be open extended hours over the holiday break.Tickets are on sale on the attraction’s website, www.icecastles.com.