*Originally published on July 25, 2024:
Updated on October 2, 2024:
We may be in the fall season now, but we're already dreaming of a winter wonderland. Gaylord Rockies recently announced that its massive ice-themed exhibition will make its grand return this year!
The ICE! exhibition started in 2019, and this year, it will feature over 2 million pounds of ice to celebrate The Polar Express. Last year, the theme was ICE! featuring A Christmas Story.
The winter wonderland will return on Friday, November 22, and run through Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
The 17,000-square-foot attraction will be created by a team of 40 ice artisans and take about six weeks to complete.
With colored ice, clear ice, and LED lights, 10 scenes from The Polar Express will be prominently featured, including the Polar Express arriving at Hero Boy’s house, passengers enjoying hot chocolate aboard the train, a descent through Glacier Gulch, and the arrival at the North Pole.
Courtesy of Gaylord Rockies
In addition, it will boast five two-story-tall interactive ice slides, which will use colored ice, clear ice, and LED lights to create the display. There will also be a separate area dedicated to a Nativity scene.
A state-of-the-art chilling system keeps the environment frozen, maintaining the attraction’s temperature at 9 degrees Fahrenheit. Guests wear a parka to stay warm inside the exhibition.
On top of that, Gaylord Rockies also revealed a new family-friendly cirque show that will be held during the 2024 holiday season.
Cirque: Frost will follow young Jack as he discovers his destiny as the legendary winter spirit, Jack Frost. The 50-minute show will feature high-flying stunts and feats in a heartwarming tale of a dreamer who brings enchantment and wonder to the world.
Like last year, Gaylord Rockies said its other holiday season activities include gingerbread decorating, an elf training academy, a scavenger hunt, Mistletoe Village with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and a Build-A-Bear Workshop.
For tickets, information, or to book a stay, guests can visit ChristmasatGaylordRockies.com.
