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Fire, Ice
coming
Feb. 10
PUTNAM — Feb. 10 downtown Putnam will host the largest single ice block competition in the U.S. — the 8th Annual Fire & Ice Festival. From noon to 10 p.m. Feb. 10, the public is invited to visit this community event, boasting more than four dozen ice carvings, ice photo opportunities, glowing fire torches, fire dancing performances, rose sales, a wedding cake decorating contest, and more.
Ice carvings will decorate the streets of downtown Putnam with both pre-carved ice blocks and live demonstrations on display. Throughout the day, patrons can watch as 300-pound ice blocks are transformed into a variety of shapes and figures – all of which are sponsored by local businesses. From noon to 5 p.m., watch as professional, amateur and group carvers create their masterpieces, with an awards ceremony at Putnam Congregational Church at 6 p.m.
Ice Matters, a full service professional ice carving company in Cheshire, will supply all of the ice blocks and will have their own live ice carving demonstration at 2:30 p.m. on the patio of 85 Main. Other not-to-be-missed carvings include: event inspired photo opportunities, sand art community sculpture, an ice table and chairs, bride and groom, a tablet, an elegant wedding dress, and a Ford truck with plow. For 2018 adult patrons, SKYY Vodka will sponsor an Ice Bar, located outside The Courthouse Bar and Grille. SKYY Vodka Ice Luges will also be featured at 85 Main, The Crossings Restaurant and Brew Pub and Jessica Tuesdays.
Despite the icy February weather, there will be plenty of ways to keep warm, with dinner and drink specials available at local restaurants. The festival also provides an opportunity for newcomers to discover the many shops and galleries of Putnam.
The Congregational Church of Putnam will be a hot spot of activity throughout the event, featuring roaring fire pits and free hot chocolate.
Visitors are also invited to stop by Flash Times Photobooth; silly poses in front of the official Fire & Ice backdrop are encouraged. From 1 to 5 p.m. the Congregational Church of Putnam will also feature a special wedding cake contest, aptly titled, “Icing on the Cake.” Professional and novice bakers from around the area will be showing off their culinary masterpieces. All entrants will be judged based on originality and best flavor. Submissions are still being accepted, with the application available on www.discoverputnam.com. In keeping with the romantic feel of the day, roses will also be available for purchase from 1 to 5 p.m. at the church.
As the sun goes down at the Fire & Ice Festival, fire torches will fill downtown Putnam with an ambient glow. Adding to the spectacle of the festival, visitors will be wowed by fire dancing performances from Sasha the Fire Gypsy. Courtesy of sponsor Byrnes Agency, performances will take place at 5 and at 7 p.m. with Sasha combining choreography, theatrics, acrobatics, and dance with speed, difficulty, and excitement.
To learn more go to: www.discoverputnam.com.