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10 tips for enjoying Chambersburg IceFest


Snowzilla can't stop IceFest! Yes, this four-day festival in Downtown Chambersburg is still on! More than 15,000 people will visit our downtown from Jan. 28-31. Whether you're an IceFest newbie or you've attended every year, here's your comprehensive guide to enjoying IceFest:

1. It's winter, dress warm! This may sound like an obvious one, but there are always people who come with no hats or mittens and regret their decision immediately. Make sure you bundle up with lots of layers. Hand warmers are also a great idea to stay toasty-warm while exploring the ice sculptures.

2. Pick your events in advance. It may be hard to pow-wow with the family while standing on the crowded sidewalk with hundreds of people milling by. Check out the complete schedule of events in advance and decide on events before you leave the house. Planning your day will make the festival so much more enjoyable.

3. Bring cash. Events that cost money to attend, like the Snowfall Ball or Chili Cook-off, only accept cash at the door. If you end up running out of cash, don't worry. There are plenty of ATMs downtown, like the M&T Bank ATM behind Olympia Candy Kitchen or the F&M Trust ATM on Lincoln Way East near the Chambersburg Heritage Center.

4. Parking! Sometimes the biggest headache when attending large events is parking. Don't stress, we've got you covered with this comprehensive downtown parking map. And don't worry, the borough has been working extra hard to make sure the public parking lots are all cleared of snow.

5. Potty breaks. There will be plenty of restrooms set up at two locations: next to Main Street Deli on North Main Street and behind J&B Bridals on S. Main St (map).

6. Warm up indoors. Many of the downtown merchants have extended hours and specials during IceFest. Take a break from the cold air and explore the variety of retailers that make up our downtown.

7. Restaurant reservations. Speaking of downtown stores, how about all of the fabulous downtown restaurants! Make reservations in advance to be sure you can enjoy your favorite eatery without the long wait.

8. Save room for dessert! After your meal, make your way to Icing on the Cake for FREE cake on Saturday from 4-5 p.m. at the Capitol Theatre. 

9. Explore the ice sculptures on Thursday and Sunday. If you want to enjoy the sculptures with smaller crowds, attend on Thursday night or Sunday. These days are typically less crowded than Friday and Saturday when the majority of events are. Plus there are still fun events happening, like Thursday features live carvings of the giant ice sculptures and Sunday will have the first ever Run Your Ice Off 5k! Click here for a map of the ice sculpture locations.

10. Have fun! Bring the family downtown for a fun weekend out and fight off winter cabin-fever. IceFest is a great community event with something for everyone.