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Fête de Glace & Bowls & Brews – St. Charles
St. Charles brings winter to life with one of its most popular seasonal traditions, the Fête de Glace & Bowls & Brews Festival, taking place on Saturday, 31 January 2026. This annual event transforms parts of the historic district into a vibrant winter celebration featuring ice carving, local food, warm drinks, and family-friendly entertainment. For visitors staying in St. Charles at the end of January, it offers a unique outdoor experience that blends creativity with community spirit.
At the heart of the Fête de Glace are the professional ice carvers who turn blocks of clear ice into detailed sculptures throughout the day. Spectators can watch as artists use chisels, chainsaws, and specialised tools to create figures, patterns, and themed designs. The live carving demonstrations draw consistent crowds and remain one of the signature elements of the festival. Because the sculptures melt gradually as the day progresses, returning guests often enjoy checking back to see how each piece changes over time.
Alongside the ice carving, the Bowls & Brews portion of the event highlights local food and drink. Visitors can sample a selection of warm soups, chilli, and seasonal dishes prepared by local restaurants, cafés, and community groups. Craft beer vendors and nearby breweries frequently participate, offering tastings and limited-release winter brews that pair well with the cold-weather theme. The combination of warm flavours and icy displays makes the festival feel inviting despite the January temperatures.
The event is ideal for families. The festival area is walkable, with open space for children to watch the carving demonstrations up close. Some years feature additional entertainment such as small performances, outdoor fire pits, or themed photo spots. Local shops in the historic district often extend hours or offer seasonal specials, making it easy for visitors to explore the area before or after enjoying the festival.
For travellers, the timing of the Fête de Glace is ideal. Late January is a quieter period in St. Charles, and many visitors appreciate having a distinctive outdoor event that doesn’t require advance tickets or long wait times. The historic setting enhances the charm of the festival, with brick buildings, riverfront views, and winter decorations creating an atmosphere that feels both cosy and lively.
Parking is generally accessible throughout the surrounding streets, and visitors staying in central St. Charles accommodation are often able to walk to the event. The festival runs during daytime hours, allowing attendees to plan their visit around indoor activities, shopping, or a meal at one of the many Main Street restaurants.
Overall, Fête de Glace & Bowls & Brews on 31 January 2026 is a standout winter event that captures the character of St. Charles. With its combination of live sculpting, local flavours, seasonal drinks, and community atmosphere, it gives visitors an enjoyable and memorable way to celebrate the winter season during their stay.
