Downtown Geneva will turn into a winter destination this February with ice sculptures, food, music, and family events planned across the city.
The Geneva Business Improvement District announced Winterfest Geneva 2026, a two-week celebration running February 6–22 with the theme “Winter Animals — Celebrate the Season Together.”
Organizers say the festival aims to bring energy and visitors to the city during one of the quietest months of the year. Events will stretch across downtown and the greater Geneva area, combining art, light, food, and community activities.
Ice sculptures and restaurant weeks
A major visual draw will be dozens of illuminated ice sculptures depicting winter animals. Each sculpture will feature a local business logo and line streets and storefronts beginning around February 18, weather permitting.
For the first time, the city will also host Winterfest Restaurant Weeks throughout the full festival, from February 6–22. Participating restaurants will offer special menus, discounts, or prix fixe options while continuing any existing Valentine’s Day plans.
A full-day winter carnival
The festival will culminate with a Winterfest Carnival on Saturday, February 21. Plans include kids’ winter activities, seasonal vendors, live animals, live music, an “Ice Hole” Championship Event, raffle prizes, and glowing ice sculptures throughout downtown.
Organizers encourage downtown businesses to extend hours and offer special experiences during the carnival to help make it a signature citywide celebration.
Businesses invited to participate
Local businesses and restaurants are invited to host Winterfest-themed activities, decorate storefronts, register for Restaurant Weeks, and sponsor ice sculptures or ice luges. Community groups and individuals may also sponsor sculptures.
Winterfest Geneva 2026 is organized by the Geneva BID in collaboration with the City of Geneva, local businesses, volunteers, and sponsors.
More details and registration information are available through the Geneva Business Improvement District.
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