Brrr! Frost Festival Returns to Downtown Rochester

The second annual Frost Festival returns to downtown Rochester on Friday, Jan. 17-Saturday, Jan. 18. Formerly known as the Fire & Ice Festival, this family-friendly event will have plenty of free winter activities, including an ice sculpture scavenger hunt, marshmallow roasting, toasty warming stations, Frost Fest Bingo that supports local business and much more. 

This article was recently updated on Jan. 6, 2025 by Metro Parent’s Assistant Editor, Nikki Roberts. Questions? Please reach out to nikki@metroparent.com.

Quick details about Frost Festival

• When: Friday, Jan. 17, 5-9 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. 
• Address: Downtown Rochester 
• Cost: Free! 

Fans of the defunct Fire & Ice Festival will be happy to hear that some of the old fest’s activities — including the Big Bright Light Show, corn hole and live ice carving — are still on the schedule of events for Rochester’s weekend of winterland fun. There are also a few returning activities that are unique to the Frost Festival. Read on to discover some of the exciting winter fun that awaits you and your family. 

What to do with kids at Frost Festival 

• Pick up an official ice sculpture map and discover Frozen in Time-themed sculptures. Think typewriters, 8-tracks, iPods and more! Maps can be found at Downtown Collaboration Studio (431 Main St.), The Spice & Tea Exchange of Rochester (120 E. 4th St.), South Street Skateshop (410 Main St.) and Bitter Tom’s Tasting Room (319 Main St.). 
• Watch live ice sculpture carvings throughout the weekend. Be sure to stop by from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. on Saturday when the Amateur Carving Competition takes place.  
• Get toasty in the Lions’ Club warming station. There will be a warm fire and marshmallow roasting, as well as ice corn hole in the evenings. 
• Win $500 in Frost Fest Bingo! Shoppers can stamp their bingo card by completing fun free activities or making purchases at downtown businesses. Read more about the rules and scorecard.

Other things to do with kids near Rochester 

• Brave the cold and explore these exciting playgrounds near Rochester. Our favorite is Innovation Hills! 
• Warm up and burn off some energy at an indoor play place near Rochester Hills.
• Didn’t have a chance to enjoy a delicious dessert at Frost Festival? Grab a cup of cocoa or an over-the-top treat at one of these dessert spots in Rochester.

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