Toronto (Feb 25-26) – The theme of this year’s Bloor-Yorkville Icefest was Celebrate Canada 150.  Majestic ice sculptures were lovingly and skillfully chiseled out of blocks of ice as part of the city’s annual ice carving competition.  All proceeds were in support of The Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Strolling down Cumberland in the Village of Yorkville, people were amazed, dazzled and inspired by the beautiful works of art displayed before them.  The detailed icy sculptures were the creation of local businesses many of whom also sponsored this well-loved event.

Can you guess what visitors were lining up for?  Hint – it has something to do with food. If you guessed Maple Syrup Taffy, you are absolutely right.  At the sampling booth, curious onlookers watched as this tasty and oh so Canadian treat was prepared and handed out to anyone who wanted to satisfy their sweet-tooth craving.

During the festival, music was provided by the DJ’s from Bellosound who were spinning their tunes under the tent of the Icefest Lounge.  Outside Yorkville’s iconic Sassafraz restaurant, visitors could sip on a deliciously healthy blend of carrot or kale apple passion fruit juice.  Weaving in and out of the crowd and dressed like an Ice Princess of the True North, Miss Canada made her way around the venue happily posing for photos with her admirers.

The energy of the young was put to the test with their own area, Ice Kiddie Cubes, where they could let their imagination take over as they piled one block on to another.  Other activities included participating in street performances as well as a scavenger hunt in The Lane shopping area.  Upon completion of the hunt, the children received prizes and were invited to sit around a simulated campfire to relax and sing-a-long to live entertainment.  Despite the cold, this didn’t deter the little ones from wanting to eat ice-cream.

There was no shortage of entertainment and Canadian pride.  It was a wonderful tribute to Canada as we celebrate our nation’s 150th birthday.