Ice Castles, Stowe Winter Carnival, and More: Winter Festivals and Icy Fun Events in New England
Scenic Six
Winter in New England means embracing the cold with a variety of icy fun events and festivals. From the enchanting Ice Castles in New Hampshire to the thrilling Stowe Winter Carnival in Vermont, there is no shortage of frosty fun to be had. Let’s dive into the winter wonderland that awaits you in New England.
Experience Ice Castles in New Hampshire
Ice Castles opened its doors in North Woodstock, New Hampshire, with a captivating new castle design that has left visitors in awe. A local photographer shared stunning images on social media, describing the experience as something truly magical. I, too, have fond memories of exploring the massive, glowing structures and zooming down the frozen slides with my family. With only a handful of Ice Castles locations in the U.S., a visit to this enchanting attraction in North Woodstock is a must this season.
Discover Must-Visit Spots and Top Cocktails
For those seeking travel inspiration in New England, USA Today readers have named several “must-visit spots” for the year, including The Abner Hotel in Litchfield, Conn., the Longfellow Hotel in Portland, Maine, Irregardless Biscuit in Providence, R.I., and Whispering Pines Haunted Hotel in Funtown Splashtown USA, Maine. Additionally, don’t miss out on trying the Meiji Manhattan at Avery Bar in Boston’s Ritz-Carlton or the delectable tomato tartare at Maine’s White Barn Inn Restaurant, both recognized as world-class by Forbes Travel Guide inspectors.
Massachusetts: A Top Destination in 2025
Massachusetts is in the spotlight this year, with Lexington and Concord earning a spot on The New York Times’ list of 52 places to visit in 2025. These historic towns, known for their pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, are gearing up for the 250th anniversary celebrations. Join in the festivities and explore the rich history that shaped America.
Travel Tips
If you’re headed to Stowe, Vermont, be sure to catch the Stowe Winter Carnival from Jan. 22-25, featuring professional ice carvers, carnival games, ski movies, and more. For a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, venture to the Maine coast for the 10th annual Paint the Town Red event in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel throughout February. And don’t miss the Keene Ice & Snow Festival in downtown Keene, New Hampshire, on Feb. 1, offering a host of winter activities for all ages.
Deals and Steals
Looking to escape the winter chill? JetBlue’s winter sale offers one-way flights as low as $49 for travel between Jan. 11 and April 9. Take advantage of free admission to Boston museums on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. And for teens who need a lift after failing their road test, Uber is offering free rides through March 31.
As you plan your winter adventures or reminisce about past travels, remember to share your photos with us at [email protected] Your scenic snapshots could be featured in an upcoming Scenic Six newsletter. Where will your next journey take you? Enjoy the ride!
Kristi Palma
Culture Writer, Boston.com
