On a sunny, winter day in downtown Vermilion…

…ice sculptures were set about the town…

…in celebration of an event called Ice-A-Fair.

The sculptures caught visitors’ attention…

…and often led them into area businesses…

…where they might find some candles (Swan Creek)…

…a sweet or salty snack (Poppin Around)…

…a nice meal (Rudy’s/Wine Vault)…

…or a little well-deserved pampering (Paradise Salon).

Wandering festival fans could take advantage of ice sculpture demonstrations…

…Lolly the Trolley tours…

…friendly characters…

…some picturesque photo ops…

…and an evening Fire and Ice show (photo taken by Scott Dommin).

And, if they got too tired and cold, they could head here…

…for some free hot chocolate…

…free cookies…

…and some raffling possibilities.

I should also mention that Ritter Library…

…also had a festival going on…

…where guests could buy sampling tickets…

…and fill their plates and containers…

…with all sorts of goodies.

Just be sure to get their early, as some tables quickly sell out.

Fortunately for us, we were able to enjoy some Rolo pretzels, which won first place (congrats, Marlene!)…

…and give us the energy needed to check out more sculptures!