The Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge

Presented by Tim Hortons, the Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge is a unique opportunity to discover the art of ice carving in a fun and welcoming way. Each team receives a block of ice and is guided by professional carvers to complete a friendly challenge inspired by the theme “Celebrating our Canadian winter identity.”

Key information:

• Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
• Location: Confederation Park, Ottawa
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours (concludes with a prize ceremony)
• Participants: Adults 18+

About Ryan Hill

Ryan Hill was an award-winning Mohawk artist from the Six Nations of the Grand River and a prominent figure in ice carving at Winterlude. He discovered ice carving in 2013 during the Public Challenge, winning first place in his very first participation. He went on to become a respected artist and an engaged member of the international ice carving community. The Ice-Carving Public Challenge is named in his honour, celebrating his talent, generosity, and lasting impact on Winterlude.