SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — All throughout the day, spirits stayed warm despite the freezing temperatures as young and old alike participated in Scranton’s Downtown on Ice.
Started in 2021, the festival came back to spice up the quieter winter months and encourage activity in Downtown Scranton’s shops and restaurants. Passerby’s and attendees said it was a blast having the festival return and that it was nice to be given a reason to brave the cold and engage with the community.
One of the biggest draws are the ice sculptures outside businesses and landmarks that litter downtown and connect to a city-wide scavenger hunt.
Whether festive, or functional, the sculptures were handmade and specific to each spot.
There were also activities throughout the city including miniature curling, horse carriage rides, and performers all throughout the day. Two such performers were Dani Longlegs and Shawn McCarty, a pair of stilt wearing entertainers from Circus Arts Entertainment who towered above everyone they passed along Scranton’s courthouse square.
“I love what they’re doing here, you know? Yeah, the Ice Festival and the various other things that are going on around Scranton. It brings out a good crowd, a good bunch of people, community, you know and we’re happy to be a part of it. Thank you, thank you,” said McCarty.
“Yes thank you and I love the other entertainers that they also hire, ” continued Longlegs. “They’re also largely local people, love seeing that. I love being a part of that and it’s a great time!”
Downtown on Ice continues tomorrow and, in a time when the weather can feel Ice-olating, its events like these that bring the community together and remind everyone that there’s snow place like Scranton.