Categories: Travel

A fire and ice festival is lighting up an Ontario town this month

Image via Alton Mills Art Centre

Two things I didn’t think would go together, but totally do: fire and ice. Alton Mills Art Centre, just an hour outside of Toronto, hosts a massive festival every winter, celebrating the season and bringing the community together. The festivities include fire performances, ice skating, food trucks, a market, and more.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

According to the official page, the Alton Mills 2026 Fire & Ice Festival will run on Jan. 31, 2026, and Feb. 1, 2026.

“Wander the historic grounds as flames dance, ice glimmers, and the whole village comes alive with music, laughter, and winter cheer,” the event page shares.

While admission to the festival is free, tickets to events like the Hot Mic Comedy Show can be purchased online (once they become available).

The full list of activities includes:

Ice carving
Fire performances
Live music and entertainment
Super snow slide
Hot Mic comedy show
Family zone
Food trucks
S’mores and hot cocoa
Crafts
Indoor artisan market

If you need somewhere to stay (weekend trip, anyone?), the Millcroft Inn is just down the road, and not only does it have a spa, but it also has hot spring pools — the perfect way to warm up during what’s sure to be a freezing cold evening.

Who says winter has to be a drag? Embrace those cold days, Ontario.