Vail’s beloved annual art installation returns with Night Owls

The Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places recently issued the following press release on its 18^th Annual Vail Winterfest - Night Owls:

The Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places announces its 18^th Annual Vail Winterfest - Night Owls. The interactive ice sculpture installation invites viewers to wander through the stunning works of art during the day or at dusk when the sculptures are illuminated. Owls were chosen as this year’s theme for their majestic beauty and association with wisdom and good fortune, as well as their nocturnal navigation capabilities. Pay attention as you may even hear a few hoots during the evening hours! 

The transformation of the Gore Creek Promenade in Vail Village begins Jan. 2 when Alpine Ice carves over 25,000 pounds of ice into several larger-than-life owl sculptures. The exhibit officially opens Jan. 10 and is anticipated to be on display through mid-February. 

“For nearly two decades, the annual Vail Winterfest has been a beloved and anticipated public art event for the community,” says Molly Eppard, Art in Public Places Coordinator for the Town of Vail. “From a towering meadow of grass, to ice thrones and an outdoor cinema, the many talented ice sculptors have never ceased to amaze us with their talent carving this difficult and often temperamental medium. This season we are excited to introduce a soundscape of various owl callswhich will be a surprise and delight for all at the 18^th Annual Vail Winterfest – Night Owls.”

Art in Public Places is pleased to present several programs throughout Vail Winterfest, including art workshops and educational opportunities. All events are free and family friendly. Visit www.artinvail.com to learn more about these programs. 

Calendar of Events

All programs are subject to change. Contact artinvail@vail.gov to confirm programs

Thursday, Jan. 2 through Thursday, Jan. 9 – Ice carving underway

• Witness the transformation of the Gore Creek Promenade throughout the week. 

Friday, Jan. 10 - Grand Opening

• 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Live beats by local favorite DJ Enrique
• 4 – 5:30 p.m. – Warm treats generously provided by Mountain Standard and Two Arrows, and more! While supplies last.
• 5 – 5:30 p.m. – Official Opening of the 18^th Annual Vail Winterfest Night Owls 

Friday, Jan. 24 – Meet the Raptors at the Colorado Snowsports Museum, 1- 4 p.m.

• Join the Raptor Education Foundation to learn more about owls. Visit with these stealthy raptors of the night, learningabout their unique adaptions for hunting and survival. This event is suitable for all ages, with a presentation taking place from 2 – 2:30 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your camera!  

Thursday, Jan. 30 – Alpine Arts Snowy Owl Pinecone Craft Workshop at the Colorado Snowsports Museum, 4:30 – 6 p.m.

• This complimentary workshop is open to all ages. Instruction and project begins every 30 minutes at 4:30, 5 and 5:30 p.m. No registration is necessary, and projects are offered while space & supplies last.  

Friday, Jan. 31 – Meet the Raptors at the Vail Public Library Community Room, 3 – 6 p.m.  

• In collaboration with the Town of Vail’s Environmental Sustainability Department, join Nature’s Educators for a truly immersive educational opportunity. With a mission to inspire individuals to understand, respect and conserve wildlife through educational programming and experiences, Nature’s Educators will provide an interactive afternoon to learn in the presence of four owls in their care. 

Beth Markham, Environmental Sustainability Manager for the Town of Vail, shared her excitement for this year’s Winterfest installation. “The Night Owls theme for the 18^th Annual Vail Winterfest is such a fun way to celebrate these stunning nocturnal raptors. Owls are an integral part of the ecosystem here in Vail and have amazing adaptations from incredible eyesight, especially at night, to silent flight that help them survive and thrive.” Markham encourages everyone to attend one of the educational programs offered throughout the exhibit.  

The Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places is grateful for the additional support provided by several community members, including Vicki and Kent Logan, Judy and Alan Kosloff, and Doe Browning and Jack Hunn. Their generous contributions have funded this year’s enhanced additional programming and ice sculptures for the 18th Annual Vail Winterfest. 

To learn more visit www.artinvail.com.