Enter Niagara’s Winter Wonderland
January 10-12 | 17-19 | 24-26 2025
When winter blankets Niagara in a serene hush, the region transforms into a magical landscape—and at its heart lies the Niagara Icewine Festival. Spanning from January 10th to 26th, this extraordinary celebration of Icewine offers visitors an immersive experience into the artistry and allure of this unique wine. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or new to the wonders of Icewine, this festival promises indulgence and discovery at every turn.
Cool As Ice Gala:
Cool As Ice Gala
January 18, 2025 | 7 PM – 11 PM | Niagara Parks Power Station
For a night of sophistication and sensory delight, the Cool As Ice Gala is an unmissable highlight. Hosted at the historic Niagara Parks Power Station, this event blends elegance and indulgence, offering premium VQA wines, Icewine cocktails, mocktails, and farm-to-table culinary creations. Live arts performances and exclusive nighttime access to the stunning Power Station tunnel leading to Niagara Falls elevate the experience.
Tickets are priced at $225 per person, ensuring an all-inclusive evening of luxury. Dust off your tuxedo or gown and prepare to dance the night away in an unforgettable setting.
Secure Your Tickets for the Cool As Ice Gala
Icewine Discovery Pass:
The Icewine Discovery Pass
January 10-26, 2025 | Participating Wineries Across Niagara
The Discovery Pass is your ticket to explore Niagara’s world-renowned wineries, offering up to six curated wine and culinary pairings crafted by top winemakers and chefs. Priced at $57.50, this pass lets you indulge at participating wineries in Niagara Benchlands and Niagara-on-the-Lake. For added flexibility, new options include the Mini Pass ($32.50 for three experiences) and the Flex Friday Pass ($47.50 for six experiences, valid on Fridays).
Each pass is valid across all three festival weekends, allowing visitors to mix and match their itinerary for maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re savoring Icewine with artisanal cheese or sampling a decadent dessert pairing, this is an adventure for your taste buds.
Discover More and Purchase Your Discovery Pass
Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival:
Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Village
January 18-19 & 25-26, 2025 | 12 PM – 6 PM | Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Step into the charming streets of Niagara-on-the-Lake as Queen Street transforms into a magical Icewine Village. With free admission, guests can wander among tasting booths offering Niagara’s best Icewines and delectable culinary pairings from local vendors. Cozy fire pits, live ice carving demonstrations, and the glow of light displays create a festive atmosphere for families and friends.
For an elevated experience, opt for a VIP Pass ($75 for a single day or $100 for the weekend), which includes access to the exclusive VIP Lodge, premium Icewine and cheese tastings, and cozy seating in heated Snow Globes. A Single Day Designated Driver/Youth Pass is also available for $50, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this unique celebration.
Elevate Your Visit with a VIP Pass
IceHaus Cocktail Competition
January 25, 2025 | 8 PM – 11 PMHistorical District, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Add a splash of excitement to your festival itinerary with the IceHaus Cocktail Competition. This high-energy event features Icewine cocktails crafted by top mixologists, bright Euro-pop-inspired light displays, and a live DJ. Guests with general admission can purchase cocktails à la carte, while VIP ticket holders enjoy exclusive perks, including a sample of each competition cocktail, entry to a VIP lounge, and light snacks.
Exclusive VIP Snow Globes
Reserve a private, heated Snow Globe for up to eight guests for the ultimate winter retreat. Each globe includes two bottles of premium Icewine and a shared cheese platter, creating a cozy yet luxurious ambiance. While the globes are heated, dressing warmly is recommended for maximum comfort. Secure your spot early for this intimate and magical experience in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Behind the Scenes: Icewine Harvest
Dive deeper into the artistry behind Icewine with an authentic harvest experience led by Kaitlin Narciso. Witness the dedication and precision required to produce this golden nectar as grapes are handpicked in freezing temperatures. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with the craftsmanship behind each bottle of Icewine. Watch the video here.
The Niagara Icewine Festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating this liquid gold. Purchase your tickets, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on a winter adventure filled with the finest Icewines, delectable culinary creations, and unforgettable moments amidst the snowy landscapes of Niagara.
What Makes Icewine Special?
Icewine is a true delicacy, characterized by its intense sweetness and vibrant flavors of ripe tropical fruits. Made from grapes frozen naturally on the vine, this wine offers a luxurious tasting experience. While it originated as “eiswein” in Austria and Germany, Canada—particularly Ontario—has become the global leader in Icewine production.
Pairing Icewine with rich dishes like aged blue cheese enhances its flavor profile. For a creative twist, mix it with sparkling wine or cocktails for a memorable burst of flavor.
The Niagara Icewine Festival is more than a celebration; it’s an invitation to indulge in the artistry, flavor, and beauty that make Niagara a world-class destination. Whether you’re exploring elegant galas, savoring wine and culinary pairings, or soaking in the charm of the Icewine Village, this festival promises unforgettable moments amid a winter wonderland.
Plan Your Festival Experience Today
