KISSIMMEE, Fla. – You may have been to ICE! before at Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, but this year is different. For the first time, it’s featuring “Elf” in ice form.
Dozens of artists are carving away at nearly 2 million pounds of ice bringing the Christmas film to life.
“The artisans have been carving for almost 33 days straight and they have years of experience. These artisans come from Harbin, China literally halfway across the world,” Director of Special Events and Entertainment Meghan Hash said.
The carvers use different instruments and printed design plans to create the detailed ice structures.
The attraction takes you through Buddy the Elf’s journey from the North Pole to New York City. Some of the scenes highlighted are the Candy Cane Forest Scene, the mailroom and the toy store.
The colors of the ice are vibrant. Gaylord Hotels hires a chemist to prepare special food coloring to provide the perfect hues to the giant blocks of ice. The chemist’s proprietary formula ensures the colors will not fade or lose their luster during the lengthy holiday celebration.
[ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKETS TO ICE! FEATURING ELF AT GAYLORD PALMS RESORT]
Throughout the attraction, you’ll come face to face with recognizable characters like Mr. Narwhal, Jovie and Santa as they work together to spread Christmas cheer.
You’ll also find some interactive elements at ICE! You can sit on this ice chair next to Buddy while he’s getting his shoes shined, and remember the iconic revolving door scene? You can actually get inside for the perfect photo op with Buddy.
And this may well be the coldest place in Florida this holiday season.
“We have seven different air handlers to keep this space at a chilly nine degrees throughout the entire season,” Hash said.
Admission comes with a parka to borrow to keep you warm. And yes, there are slides for kids and adults to enjoy.
“We have five ice slides where everyone wearing a parka will be invited to slide down as many times as they’d like. One slide is shorter for the kids. We also have a sixth slide throughout the attraction if you can find it. I’ll give you a hint... it’s in the mailroom,” Hash said.
ICE! Featuring “Elf” will soon be complete and you’ll be able to check it out from Nov. 15 through Jan. 4. Click HERE to reserve your tickets.