Frigid Fun in Store for River Museum’s Ice Fest, Jan. 18 - 19

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is hosting the 21st annual Ice Fest, presented by Dupaco Credit Union, on Saturday, January 18 and Sunday, January 19. Both days feature indoor and outdoor activities for guests to enjoy, as well as exploration of the River Museum's exhibits and animals. This year's them is "Winter Carnival," bringing the fun of the season to life!

"This year, join us under the 'big top' for a winter carnival filled with family fun for all ages," said Bri Budde, Education Group Coordinator. "Fan-favorite activities like snow-sculpting and open water rescue demonstrations are set to return, as well as a craft corner & of course, indoor & outdoor carnival games! Cotton candy, a hot cocoa bar, an outdoor creation station, and snowshoeing will also be available. The event is sure to bring winter fun for the whole family, and we hope to see you there!"

A weekend full of activities is scheduled for guests of all ages. Visitors will have the opportunity to try snowshoeing, snow carving, observe ice harvesting, watch blacksmith demonstrations, and learn from the Dubuque Fire Department as they conduct open water rescues. Dubuque Ice Skating will also share their history of ice-skating performance with guests on Saturday at 11:15 A.M. Indoor crafts and cardboard caves will be set up for kids to enjoy. Hot chocolate for the kids and adults (including 21+ older options) and s'mores kits are available for purchase. Gluten-free s'mores options will be available as well. The Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team will have Bernie, the St. Bernard, on campus on Saturday, and on Sunday, the shark touch tank will be available for visitors to enjoy.

New this year will be a snow excavating site where guests can use their paleontology skills to uncover what lies beneath the snow and ice, a nod to the River Museum's upcoming summer exhibit, Ice Dinosaurs: The Lost World of the Alaskan Arctic, arriving Memorial Day weekend.

All activities, unless otherwise noted, are included with general daily and member admission. Admission tickets to the River Museum can be used for the next consecutive day, ensuring visitors experience all events happening throughout the weekend.

Guests are reminded to dress for indoor and outdoor activities, and youth are encouraged to wear snow gear due to the number of snow-related outdoor activities. All outdoor activities are weather permitting.

For a full schedule of events, visit rivermuseum.org/events. The River Museum is also pleased to extend a special thank you to our event sponsors: DuPaco Credit Union, Casey's General Store, Sundown Mountain Resort, Diamond Jo Casino and McCoy Group, Inc.