Spring 2026 Season Update

Dear Members, Volunteers, Artists, Sponsors, and Friends,

As we close another successful season of the World Ice Art Championships, I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make Ice Alaska possible.

The 2026 season welcomed more than 30,000 visitors to the World Ice Art Championships and brought together talented artists from around the world to celebrate creativity, culture, and the art of ice sculpting. From the first ice harvest in December through park closure in the spring, hundreds of volunteers, artists, staff, sponsors, and supporters contributed countless hours to create an experience that continues to make Fairbanks a winter destination unlike any other.

A Season of Accomplishment

This year featured incredible artistic achievements across all competition divisions, educational opportunities for local youth, and thousands of visitors experiencing world-class ice art in Interior Alaska.

The dedication of our artists remains the heart of the event. Competitors traveled from around the globe to share their talents, inspire future generations of sculptors, and contribute to the international reputation that Ice Alaska has built over the years.

In addition to the competitions, our volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes in park operations, hospitality, transportation,  security, first aid, maintenance, and countless other roles that often go unseen but are essential to the success of the event.

Thank You to Our Volunteers

Ice Alaska is a volunteer-driven organization. Every season we rely on dedicated individuals who generously contribute their time, skills, and energy.

Whether you worked a single shift or spent months helping prepare the grounds, harvest ice, support artists, welcome guests, or assist with operations, your contribution mattered.

The success of the World Ice Art Championships belongs to all of us, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment.

Thank You to Our Artists

To the artists who traveled great distances, endured challenging weather conditions, and transformed blocks of ice into extraordinary works of art—thank you.

Your creativity and dedication continue to inspire visitors from around the world and reinforce Fairbanks’ reputation as a premier destination for competitive ice sculpting.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Community Partners

Ice Alaska would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, donors, community partners, and in-kind supporters.

From lodging and transportation to equipment, materials, advertising, and financial support, your contributions help make this event accessible to artists and visitors alike.

Your investment in Ice Alaska strengthens tourism, supports arts and culture, and helps showcase Fairbanks to a global audience.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Planning for the 2027 season is already underway.

Over the coming months, we will be focusing on:

• Strengthening volunteer recruitment and retention
• Expanding artist participation opportunities
• Improving organizational policies and procedures
• Enhancing safety and operational planning
• Strengthening sponsor relationships
• Building a sustainable foundation for future growth

Our goal is simple: preserve the traditions that have made Ice Alaska successful while continuing to improve the experience for artists, volunteers, sponsors, members, and visitors.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support Ice Alaska throughout the year.

Whether you are interested in volunteering, serving on a committee, helping with fundraising, supporting artist programs, or sharing professional expertise, we encourage you to become involved.

The future of Ice Alaska depends on the passion and dedication of people who believe in our mission and want to see it continue for generations to come.

Closing

On behalf of Ice Alaska, thank you for your continued support.

The World Ice Art Championships exists because of the commitment of an incredible community of artists, volunteers, sponsors, members, and supporters. We look forward to working together as we prepare for another exciting season in 2027.

With gratitude,

Sue McGrew
Executive Director
Ice Alaska