January 17, 2026 | 2–7 PM
Winter doesn’t slow Romney down, it just makes it glow.
On Saturday, January 17, 2026, downtown Romney will come alive with ice sculptures, fire pits, warm drinks, and storybook charm during the first-ever Fire & Ice Festival, hosted by the Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau and co-hosted by the Hampshire County Public Library.
This inaugural event is intentionally small, cozy, and walkable. Designed as a relaxed winter gathering, Fire & Ice invites visitors to wander at their own pace, explore downtown, and enjoy a little warmth alongside the winter chill.
A First-Year Festival with Big Winter Heart
Fire & Ice Festival runs from 2–7 PM, making it easy to stop by for an afternoon stroll or stay into the early evening as the lights, fire pits, and ice sculptures begin to glow.
This first year is about connection, creativity, and celebrating winter in a way that feels authentic to Romney. No rushing. No overwhelm. Just simple, thoughtful fun.
Ice Sculptures, Games & Winter Play
Throughout downtown, visitors will find a variety of ice features and interactive activities, including:
- Live ice carving demonstrations
- A giant Ice Throne perfect for photos
- A Graffiti Ice Wall
- A Fire & Ice signature ice sculpture
- Ice Cornhole and Ice Tic-Tac-Toe
- Community and sponsor ice blocks, including an America 250 feature
Ice elements are spread throughout the festival footprint, encouraging guests to stroll, explore, and discover something new around every corner.
Warm Drinks, Fire Pits & Cozy Stops
Cold winter air pairs best with warm hands and good flavor.
Select downtown locations will feature fire pits, cozy indoor spaces, and extended hours, along with special Fire & Ice offerings, including:
- 1762 Wine & Brew
Boozy hot cocoa, a special Fire & Ice wine tasting, and extended hours until 7 PM, plus a fire pit for peak winter vibes. - Romney Brew Station
A special Fire & Ice coffee flight, crafted just for the event.
Comfort food, sweet treats, and winter specials will be available throughout downtown.
Family-Friendly Fun & Storybook Magic
Fire & Ice is designed for all ages, with plenty of gentle, family-friendly experiences.
Owl Moon Story Walk
Families and story lovers can follow the beloved winter book Owl Moon across 15 illustrated stops throughout downtown Romney. The story walk is stroller-friendly, easy to follow, and especially magical as daylight fades into evening.
Games, Creativity & Hands-On Experiences
Visitors can watch, participate, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with:
- A Jigsaw Puzzle Competition at the library
(The competition is full, but spectators are welcome.) - A Puzzle Swap Table, open to everyone
(Bring a puzzle, take a puzzle.) - Creative pop-ups and hands-on activities
- Reiki with Jenn
(An informational table where visitors can learn about Reiki and ask questions.)
Special Events & Flavors
A few activities require advance planning:
- Thai Cooking Class (Saturday afternoon)
Advance registration required.
In addition, local businesses will be offering Fire & Ice-inspired tastings, menus, and specials throughout the event.
Enter to Win a Magical Winter Experience
During the festival, visitors can scan a QR code to enter a giveaway for:
🎟️ Four North Pole Express tickets
Donated by the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
Puzzle competitors are also playing for an unforgettable Premium Dining Holiday Trough experience during the 2026 season.
Walkable, Welcoming & Easy to Explore
Fire & Ice Festival is entirely walkable and designed for wandering. Guests can follow the glow of ice sculptures, fire pits, shops, and story stops throughout downtown Romney, stopping wherever curiosity leads.
Make It a Weekend
Romney shines after dark, and Fire & Ice pairs perfectly with an overnight stay.
Visitors are encouraged to make it a winter weekend and explore more of the area before and after the festival.
👉 Lodging options can be found at:
https://hampshirehighlands.com/rest-your-head/
Fire & Ice Festival
📅 Saturday, January 17, 2026
⏰ 2–7 PM
📍 Downtown Romney, West Virginia
Hosted by the Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Co-hosted by the Hampshire County Public Library