York’s city centre will be TRANSFORMED into a magical winter attraction this February as the York Ice Trail returns for 2026.
Taking place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February, from 10:30am to 4pm, the free-to-attend event is delivered by Make It York and will see dazzling ice sculptures installed throughout the historic city centre.
This year’s theme, An Enchanted City, invites visitors to step into a world of magic, mystery and the weird and wonderful. Families and visitors can follow the ice trail through York’s streets, discovering mythical creatures, curious characters and enchanting designs carved in ice. A mysterious spell forms the story behind the trail, encouraging visitors to uncover who cast it and why, before the magic melts away.
New for 2026 is the introduction of the Ice Village, a brand-new feature offering even more family-friendly fun. The Ice Village will host themed traders, magical treats and interactive activities, alongside Ice Carving Masterclasses where visitors can learn the art of ice carving, including how to create a polar bear.
Visitors can pick up help and information from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street, where staff will be on hand throughout the weekend. Nearby, Shambles Food Court will offer a variety of street food options, providing a warm stop-off point while exploring the trail.
The York Ice Trail is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the city centre, bringing colour, creativity and winter magic to York’s streets at the start of 2026.

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