The 14th Annual Hunter Ice Festival begins Friday - just as the area experiences a slight warm-up.

Carving is already underway in Niles as artists create their frozen masterpieces.

Every year, the weather brings a unique challenge.

"We have had all kinds of weather challenges. Last year was 62 and sunny and most everything was melted by 10 in the morning. This year the weather appears to be a little warm, in the 30s. That's a whole heck of a lot colder than it was at 62. And overcast. So I think we're going to be good on Saturday," said Lisa Croteau, Director of Marketing and Administration for Niles Main Street.

The Hunter Ice Festival is in downtown Niles from January 19 through the 21.

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