Make the Most of Fire in Ice: Frederick’s Most Iconic Winter Weekend

Each February, Downtown Frederick transforms into one of the most visually striking winter scenes in the region. February 6th to 8th, Fire In Ice returns with hundreds of  glowing ice sculptures, live fire dancing, and dazzling sailboats that light up Carroll Creek for a festive and magical spectacle that’s perfect for families.

Here’s how to experience Fire in Ice at its best while staying right in the heart of it all at Visitation Hotel.

Start at Dusk: Boats, Lights, & Carroll Creek

Fire in Ice is at its most memorable just as evening settles in on Friday, February 6th. As the sun dips below the rooftops, Carroll Creek comes alive with illuminated boats from Sailing Through the Winter Solstice, floating quietly beneath bridges and alongside glowing ice sculptures. Each boat is uniquely decorated by local businesses, families, and organizations, creating a one-of-a-kind display that reflects the spirit and creativity of the Frederick community. Even more to love, the boats on Carroll Creek are part of a charitable fundraiser that benefits local non-profits, raising over $100,000 each year. Consider your night on the town a feel-good activity that does good, too.

Before you head out, grab a warm drink from Acorn Provisions. A hot coffee, cocoa, or seasonal beverage makes strolling the creek even more inviting. From there, wander the waterway at your own pace, pausing for photos, fire performances, and the reflections dancing across the creek.

Don’t Miss These Highlights

Throughout the weekend, Downtown Frederick offers something new around every corner:

• Live ice carving and fire dancing near the Carroll Creek Amphitheater
• The lively Polar Lounge, complete with fire towers, ice bars, games, and music
• Over 100 ice sculptures placed throughout downtown
• Marshmallow roasting stations, food trucks, scavenger hunts, and family-friendly activities

Be sure to keep an eye out for the dedicated ice sculptures created for Visitation Hotel and Wye Oak Tavern, both proudly participating in this iconic event.

Warm Up at Wye Oak Tavern

After exploring the festival, retreat indoors to the inviting warmth of Wye Oak Tavern. Set within Visitation’s beautifully restored historic space, the tavern offers a welcoming place to relax with curated playlists and enjoy flavorful dishes like our take on a Maryland Crab Cake or the comforting Tavern Burger. Kick back by the fire and unwind with a ‘Chris Cross’ in hand, a specialty cocktail featuring Bourbon, apple, and a hint of hazelnut for a winter-inspired nightcap before heading back out—or calling it a night.

Stay in the Center of It All

Make your Fire in Ice weekend luxurious with Visitation Hotel’s exclusive Fire in Ice Rate. Spend your day surrounded by ice sculptures and fire-lit performances, then return to a refined, cozy retreat just steps from the festivities.

This special offer includes:

• A stay in the heart of Downtown Frederick
• Easy access to Carroll Creek, ice sculptures, and festival events
• On-site valet parking 
• Warm, inviting spaces to relax and recharge after a winter day outdoors

From the glow of the Polar Lounge to the warmth of our lobby, your Fire in Ice experience is elevated from start to finish.

Book the Fire in Ice Rate

Make a Weekend of It

Fire in Ice runs February 6th–8th, and it’s the kind of event that naturally fills a whole weekend. Beyond the ice-cold works of art and flame-throwing acts, Downtown Frederick stays lively with local distilleries, pop-up shops, and family-friendly events along the creek.

On Sunday, slow things down with a stroll through the city’s Artwalk, where galleries and studios will open their doors and invite you to explore. Along the way, stop into favorites like Delaplaine Arts Center, TAG Artists’ Gallery, and Eastside Artists’ Gallery, each offering a different perspective on the local arts scene. It’s an easy, unhurried way to round out the weekend before heading home.

Staying at Visitation Hotel puts you right in the middle of it all, close enough to step out and join the festivities, and just far enough to retreat to something warm, calm, and comfortable when you’re ready.