KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Forty master ice carvers got a warm welcome on Friday after flying more than 7,000 miles to start crafting ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort.
Employees gave a standing ovation to greet the carvers from Harbin, China, and Orlando’s Wah Lum Chinese Temple performed a Good Luck Lion Dance.
The artisans for ICE! presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer get a grand welcome at Gaylord Palms Resort. (Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.)
Following the short ceremony, News 6 was given a tour through the 9° ICE! attraction while the artisans worked, carving the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer from 1,000 tons of ice using chainsaws, chisels, and hand tools.
“It is so nostalgic to have the classic Christmas movie, ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,’” said Meghan Hash, director of Special Events and Entertainment at Gaylord Palms Resort. “We have 11 iconic scenes from the movie that we’re excited to showcase and premiere this year.”
Ice blocks at ICE! (Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.)
The sculptures include fan favorites like Hermey, the elf who dreams of becoming a dentist, Rudolph himself alongside Clarice, and the whimsical Island of Misfit Toys.
Carvers have already spent six days working on the sculptures and will continue carving for a total of 33 days.
The attraction opens to guests on Nov. 14.
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Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.