YORKS' magical ice trail is returning this winter, transforming the city with a display of enchanted sculptures.
York Ice Trail will take place on February 7 and 8, and will feature this year’s theme Enchanted City, bringing a touch of magic and mystery to the historic streets.
The free event will feature 36 ice sculptures spread across the city centre, along with interactive experiences, photo opportunities, and the popular live ice carving sessions starting daily at 12pm.
Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York, said: "York Ice Trail is a fantastic event that unites residents and visitors in a shared sense of wonder.
"It's one of our favourite events in the calendar, and it’s very much reflected with the positive engagement and happy faces we see over the weekend.
"We’re incredibly grateful to our partners for their generous support, without which, the event won’t be possible.
"Thank you all for supporting and visiting."
Highlights for 2026 include an Ice Village, designed as a space for visitors to relax and recharge. The village will feature unique gifts, handcrafted treasures and delicious treats, even potions!
Visitors can look forward to a neon-lit photo wall, an immersive ice wall experience, a snow angel zone for posing, and an Igloo 360 photobooth.
There will also be a dedicated food and drink area on Parliament Street, as well as the Shambles Food Court serving street food from around the world.
The trail will run from 10.30am to 4pm on both days.
Official trail maps can be collected from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre, and a special sticker will be available for those who complete the trail.
Locations of sculptures will be listed on the map and available online, using what3words for easy navigation.
Each sculpture is sponsored by a local business and created by Icebox, a leading ice sculpture specialist.
This year’s designs include 'All Aboard for Railway Stories' by the National Railway Museum, 'The Enchanted Chocolate Bar' by York’s Chocolate Story, and 'Wade The Giant' by the North York Moors National Park.
Other highlights feature dragons, mystical creatures, enchanted objects, and interactive displays.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos on social media using @visityork.
The full list of sculptures, sponsors, and related activities can be found at visityork.org/icetrail.
The York Ice Trail is delivered by Make It York in collaboration with city partners.
For those planning their visit, a dedicated food and drink zone will be located at Parliament Street, alongside the Shambles Food Court which will offer a variety of global street food options.
Live ice carving demonstrations will take place each day from 12pm.
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