Ice and Fire Festival: A Winter Wonderland

Join us for an enchanted stroll and witness the magic as the Ice Fairy transforms Symphony Woods into an illuminated Winter Wonderland.
About this Event
Bring the whole family to witness the magic of the Ice and Fire Festival as we raise money for FREE community arts programming, Community Action Council of Howard County (including the Howard County Food Bank), and additional non-profits on select nights.

Stroll through the Light Forest, get lost in the Light Maze, and be enthralled by the Ice Fairy and her friends as they transform Symphony Woods into a Winter Wonderland. Wander towards the Chrysalis where you will find a lighted dragon, fire pits, and a make your own s’mores station (additional purchase required). Visit Santa on the Chrysalis stage. Meet a variety of visitors from the fairy (and other) realms. Marvel at the 30 foot Tree of Light.

This event is part of the new Ice and Fire Festival, a community fundraiser for Howard County not-for-profits. The Festival helps raise money for the Inner Arbor Trust’s FREE community arts events (including the popular Chrysalis Kids Series) at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods. 10% of ticket sales for the Ice and Fire Festival benefits Community Action Council of Howard County, which includes the Howard County Food Bank.

Please note that this is a walking event over a variety of surfaces including paved paths, mulch, grass, and gravel.

PRICING

Advance purchase

Adults $9
Children four and over $7
Children three and under free
At the gate

Adults $12
Children four and over $10
Children three and under free
Save $1 per ticket at the gate with a qualified financial donation to the Community Action Council of Howard County.

What’s the Ice and Fire Festival?

The Ice and Fire Festival is a new Downtown Columbia winter tradition, running on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 11/30 to 12/22. Witness the magic as the Ice Fairy transforms Symphony Woods into a Winter Wonderland!

Ice and Fire raises money for the Inner Arbor Trust’s FREE community arts events at the Chrysalis, for Community Action Council of Howard County (including the Howard County Food Bank), and select local non-profits.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The venue has close-by parking, but we encourage the use of rideshare, biking, and walking in Downtown Columbia!

Where do I park?

Parking will be assigned a before the event via Eventbrite. Parking is generally a short walk. Please contact us at [email protected] for ADA parking or other requests.

Where does the event take place?

This event takes place in Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, beginning with entry off Little Patuxent Parkway near the intersection of Merriweather Drive.

On what surfaces do guests walk?

Guests will walk over asphalt paths, mulch paths, gravel, and grass. Please note that surfaces are uneven and may be slippery.

Most activities (including Santa) are in the Chrysalis Use Area and on the Chrysalis stage, which is fully accessible.

Is there food on site?

Food and beverage is available for purchase. You may also bring a picnic (no glass or alcohol). After the event, we encourage you to check out the many great restaurants in Downtown Columbia.

What about hot chocolate or hot cider?

We have you covered! Hot chocolate and hot cider are available for purchase. Guests over 21 with valid ID may purchase adult hot chocolate and hot cider as well.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Please have a printed ticket or a ticket available to scan on your phone or other device.

Can I bring a pet?

December 7th and 8th will be dog-friendly walking dates for the Ice and Fire Festival, and dogs on 6 foot or shorter non-retractable leashes will be welcome. Service animals always welcome.

Can I bring balls / frisbees / etc.?

Sorry, not during special events. You are welcome to do so other times.

I have special needs, who do I talk to?

Please email [email protected] or call 443-832-3223.