Niles annual Hunter Ice Festival brings economic boost to local businesses

NILES, Mich. – Every year, thousands of visitors come to Niles for the annual Hunter Ice Festival.

This year, 18th annual the three-day festival showcases around 70 ice sculptures created by five ice carvers. The sculptures are placed all around downtown.

Lisa Croteau, the Program Manager for Niles DDA Mainstreet said the festival has grown since they started it 18 years ago. Croteau added that carvers come from all over the United States to create beautiful works of art, and local businesses get an opportunity to get people through their doors. 

The family-friendly event encourages people to come out and enjoy the weather, check out all the ice sculptures, interact with the interactive ice games, and discover local businesses. 

Sunday is the last day for the weekend-long festival. But, ice sculptures will still be around downtown Niles as long as they stay frozen. 

Share this article: