The eighth annual Hunter Ice Festival will be held Jan. 13-15 in downtown Niles.

The free festival, which has become one of the largest festivals in the area, will include demonstrations by renowned ice sculptors, sculpting competitions, children’s events, the Frigid 5K and more.

The Niles City Council approved Monday a contribution of $2,500 to help promote the festival.

According to Niles DDA Main Street, the 2011 event drew nearly 15,000 people to downtown and brought in more than $125,000 to downtown businesses. The Food Network also filmed Grand Rapids’ Ice Sculptures Ltd. carve a working carousel for its show “Ice Brigade” last January.

The DDA is currently accepting pledges for festival contributions. Donors may also sponsor block sculptures.

For more information about the festival or making a donation, call the DDA at 687-4332 or visit www.uncoverniles.com.
www.uncoverniles.com.