Local arts nonprofit prepares for best Ice Festival L/A yet

LEWISTON — The 4th annual Ice Festival L/A from L/A Arts is coming up Friday, Feb. 19 through Sunday, Feb. 21. 

Ice Fest L/A is a three-day celebration of winter, arts and community, and a fundraiser for local arts nonprofit L/A Arts, featuring professionally crafted ice sculptures, live music, food from a collection of L/A’s best restaurants, ice bars and more.

It all takes place at Bates Mill courtyard and atrium in Lewiston, 150 Mill St., beside DaVinci’s Eatery. Friday and Saturday, are 21 and over only. Sunday is all-ages. Buy tickets online at laarts.org or by phone at 207-782-7228.

Thousands of residents have come to enjoy the festivities through the years, and the 2016 Ice Fest is set to up the ante. Highlighting this year’s improvements are more Maine musicians and many more free-form ice sculptures. Each day of the event has its own special features and live performers.

Friday, Feb. 19, 5-9 p.m., VIP Night (21+ only) — In addition to ice sculptures and ice bars, VIP ticket holders get access to live music from three bands: Three Point Jazz, Skosh and Tumbling Bones; food from Lewiston Auburn’s top restaurants; first access to the event; live sculpture demonstrations; gallery of local featured artists; silent auction of local artworks and specialty items from L/A businesses. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 door (if available).

Saturday, Feb. 20, 5-9 p.m., general admission (21+ only) — General admission ticket holders get access to: Live music from last year’s hit Primo Cubano; professionally crafted free-form ice sculptures; great food from LA restaurants; ice bars. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 door (if available).

Sunday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Family Day — In addition to ice sculptures, Family Day attendees get access to: live music from Amy Allen of Amy & the Engine; live performance from Off the Wall Juggling; variety of outdoor games and activities; hot chocolate and wintery treats from L/A restaurants. Tickets (ages 18+): $2.50 in advance, $5 door; under 18, free.

Tickets are limited. Available online at laarts.org or by phone at 207-782-7228.