Lincoln will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland this December as the much-loved Ice Adventure returns for a weekend of festive fun, ice sculptures and family-friendly entertainment.
Taking place from 12 noon to 6pm on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December, the event, organised by City of Lincoln Council’s Events in Lincoln team, will feature a trail of 14 shimmering ice sculptures produced by Icebox both uphill among the city’s quaint historic streets and downhill in the hustle and bustle of the festive spirit.
Not to be missed at this year’s event is the unveiling of the winning sculpture design from last year’s competition. The sculpture, showcasing a fox and otter, will be revealed at 12 noon on Saturday 5 December in St Paul in the Bail, attended by the competition winner, local dignitaries and representatives from the city.
Visitors can also watch live ice carving demonstrations at St Paul in the Bail, including the creation of a festive Santa Claus sculpture and enjoy a programme of entertainment across the weekend.
New for this year is the Fox and Otter Lantern Parade, taking place at 5pm on Saturday 5 December. Delivered in partnership with LUMO Workshop, the parade will feature pupils from Westgate Academy, who will create their own lanterns during special workshops ahead of the event.
The children will join LUMO’s large, illuminated fox and otter lanterns, accompanied by walkaround performers, along a route through Minster Yard, Castle Square, Bailgate, Westgate and St Paul in the Bail.
Ahead of the parade, LUMO’s lantern characters will also appear in a special walkaround performance at 4pm.
The event will also include a traditional carousel and the Maker’s Market in Castle Square, steam engine attractions, entertainment from performers including Glowbot and Aurora, festive food and drink offerings, including FFN Gluhwein, and performances from local choirs, bands and community groups.
Performers appearing across the city throughout the weekend will include Rock Choir, Lincolnshire Vocal Academy, Ministry of Ukes, City of Lincoln Band and Sing It Loud, helping to create a festive atmosphere throughout the city centre.
Alongside the Ice Adventure, visitors will also be able to enjoy the Lincoln Medieval Yuletide Market, taking place at St Mary le Wigford Church and St Mary’s Guildhall, as well as the popular Lincoln Illuminations Trail, which will run throughout the festive period and encourage residents and visitors to discover different areas of the city centre.
Another family favourite returning for this year’s event is the children’s ice sculpture design competition for 2026. Children will be invited to submit their sculpture ideas by posting designs into a special ice-themed letterbox located on High Bridge, with the winning entry potentially transformed into an ice sculpture at next year’s event.
A design station in the Cornhill Market will provide templates and pencils for children to draw their designs whilst they’re at the event; alternatively, children can draw their designs at home and bring them along to the event to submit. Event stewards will provide waterproof envelopes. All entries must include a name and contact information.
Also taking place outside Cornhill Market on City Square is The Cornhill Christmas Village, running from 23 November to 20 December. A range of traders will offer seasonal gifts, artisan and craft products, and food and drink.
Local businesses are also supporting this year’s Lincoln Ice Adventure, with The White Hart Hotel as headline sponsor, alongside sponsors Taylor Lindsey and THOR’s Tipi. Each will have their own themed ice sculpture on display across the event.
Cllr Joshua Wells, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council, said:
“Lincoln Ice Adventure, alongside other events across the city, has become a key part of our offer in the festive season, bringing together residents, visitors and businesses to celebrate everything that makes Lincoln special at Christmastime.
“We continually listen to feedback and look for ways to enhance the experience each year, and we’re delighted to introduce the new Fox and Otter Lantern Parade as part of this year’s programme. Seeing the illuminated parade wind through Lincoln’s historic uphill quarter, surrounded by festive lights and ice sculptures, will create a truly magical experience for families and visitors to enjoy.
“Alongside the attractions and entertainment, the event is a fantastic opportunity to explore Lincoln’s vibrant independent businesses, whether that’s enjoying a warming drink, festive meal or some Christmas shopping. We look forward to welcoming people from across the region for what promises to be another memorable weekend in the city.”
For more information and event updates, follow Events in Lincoln on Facebook.