Goshen heating up winter business with Fire and Ice Festival

GOSHEN, Ind. -- Around every corner Friday evening, there was a fire performer or ice sculptor showing off their skills in downtown Goshen at the First Fridays Fire and Ice Festival.

Longtime ice sculptor, Danny Blouss, spent around two hours carving 300 pounds of frozen water into a detailed ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ shape this year.

"I’m still learning… so, it’s fun. I do it so that families come out and check [the ice sculpture] out and maybe inspire some of the kids,” said Blouss.

Over 25 local businesses sponsored the ice block creations, bringing crowds of people to Goshen during the slower winter months.

“In the New Year, in January, the First Friday event usually brings in the most foot traffic we see for the whole year… It’s just a real joy to spread what we make around,” said Nick Schwartz, owner of local shop DN3D Prints.

The next Downtown Goshen First Fridays will be held on Feb. 7, with the theme of “Shop Til You Drop,”.