Night Owls

The Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places announces its 18th Annual Vail Winterfest - Night Owls. Ice carving begins Jan. 2 as Alpine Ice transforms the Gore Creek Promenade in Vail Village into a Winter wonderland. Wander through the stunning works of art during the day or at dusk when the sculptures are illuminated. Owls were chosen as this year’s theme for their majestic beauty and association with wisdom and good fortune, as well as their nocturnal navigation. Pay attention as you may even hear a few hoots during the evening hours! The exhibit officially opens Jan. 10 and is anticipated to be on display through mid-February.

“For nearly two decades, the Annual Vail Winterfest has been a beloved and anticipated public art event for the community. From a towering meadow of grass, to ice thrones and an outdoor cinema, the many talented ice sculptors have never ceased to amaze us carving this difficult and often temperamental medium. This season we are excited to introduce a soundscape of various owl calls which will be a surprise and delight for all at the 18th Annual Vail Winterfest – Night Owls,” - Molly Eppard, Town of Vail, Art in Public Places Coordinator.

Free and Family Friendly Events at the 18th Annual Vail Winterfest

All programs are subject to change. Contact artinvail@vail.gov to confirm programs

Thursday, Jan. 2 – Thursday, Jan. 9
Ice carving begins. Witness the transformation of the Gore Creek Promenade throughout the week.

Friday, Jan. 10 - Grand Opening
3:30-5:30 p.m. in front of Mountain Standard, Gore Creek Promenade, Vail Village 

• 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. - Live beats by local favorite DJ Enrique
• 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Warm treats generously provided by Mountain Standard and Two Arrows, and more! While supplies last.
• 5 - 5:30 p.m. - Official Opening

Friday, Jan. 24 – Meet the Raptors
1 - 4 p.m. at the Colorado Snowsports Museum

• Join the Raptor Education Foundation to learn more about owls. Visit with these stealthy raptors of the night, learning about their unique adaptions for hunting and survival. This event is suitable for all ages, with a presentation taking place from 2:00-2:30PM. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Thursday, Jan. 30 – Alpine Arts Snowy Owl Pinecone Craft Workshop
4:30 - 6 p.m. at the Colorado Snowsports Museum

• This complimentary workshop is open to all ages. Instruction and project begins every 30 minutes at 4:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. No registration is necessary, and projects are offered while space & supplies last.

Friday, Jan. 31 – Meet the Raptors
3 - 6 p.m. at the Vail Public Library Community Room

• n collaboration with the Town of Vail’s Environmental Sustainability Department, join Nature’s Educators for a truly immersive educational opportunity. With a mission to inspire individuals to understand, respect and conserve wildlife through educational programming and experiences Nature’s Educators will provide an interactive afternoon to learn in the presence of four owls in their care.

The Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places is grateful for the additional support provided by several community members, including Vicki and Kent Logan, Judy and Alan Kosloff, and Doe Browning and Jack Hunn. Their generous contributions have funded this year’s enhanced additional programming and ice sculptures for the 18th Annual Vail Winterfest.