Ice Sculpters Artists Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer characters elves at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering comp

A Standing Ovation for the Sculptors of ICE! at Gaylord Palms

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Before the ice slides, before the sparkling lights and the chilly 9-degree air, there are the artisans. Forty talented ice carvers from Harbin, China, spend weeks transforming 2 million pounds of ice into the colorful wonderland known as ICE! at Gaylord Palms. It’s part of the marvelous Christmas at Gaylord Palms activities.

This week, I had the rare chance to see them at work and to join the Gaylord Palms “stars” (that’s what they call their staff) for a moment that reminded me what the holiday season is really about: gratitude.

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Behind the Scenes at ICE! at Gaylord Palms 2025

Thanking the ICE! Artisans

Inside the resort’s winter workshop, chainsaws buzzed, chisels rang, and blocks of clear ice began to reveal familiar faces: Rudolph, Clarice, and Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster. The air was freezing, but the energy was electric. The artisans smiled shyly as cameras clicked, working with a speed and precision that left everyone in awe.

But before our media group could set foot inside the wintry work-in-progress, we witnessed a touching moment.

Ice Sculpters Carvers Artists arrive for a welcome at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering comp
Artists arrive for a welcome at ICE! Gaylord Palms – image by Dani Meyering

The artisans stepped away from their icy creations and headed to the atrium of Gaylord Palms, then something beautiful happened. Lining the atrium’s walkway, hundreds of Gaylord Palms “stars” stood shoulder to shoulder, clapping and cheering. They held signs, some in English and some in Mandarin, welcoming the carvers who had traveled more than 7,000 miles to bring the magic of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ to life for families in Central Florida. Even Nutmeg the Gingerbread Man joined in, waving to the cheering crowd.

The moment included a traditional Chinese performance by Orlando’s Wah Lum Temple, honoring the artisans’ heritage and marking an honor of culture, and gratitude.

Wah Lum Temple Perform for Ice Sculpters Carvers Artists at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering
Artists at ICE! Gaylord Palms – image by Dani Meyering

It was a standing ovation not for a performer but for the makers, the people whose hard work builds the joy that fills the holidays.

How ICE! is Made

Each year, Gaylord Palms hosts a team from Harbin, a city famous for its world-renowned ice and snow festival. These master sculptors spend over a month inside a 9-degree environment, using chisels, chainsaws, and grinders to carve life-size scenes from the classic 1964 TV special.

This year’s ICE! is extra special because it’s the first time ever that Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ takes center stage at Gaylord Palms. The artisans’ skill and attention to detail bring every moment of the beloved story to life.

Ice Carvers Artisan works on Rudolph Reindeer sculptures at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering
Artisan works on Rudolph Reindeer sculptures at ICE! Gaylord Palms – image by Dani Meyering

Feeling Grateful

Watching the Gaylord team cheer for their colleagues reminded me that behind every big, glittering holiday display, there are real people making it happen. It’s a perfect lesson to share with kids about creativity, dedication, and appreciation.

If you visit this season, take a moment to point out the different colors, textures, and structures. Then, remind your kids that those details came from the hands of people who traveled halfway across the world to make the holidays a little brighter for everyone.

Ice Carvers Artisan works on sculptures in pop up room at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering comp
Artisan works on sculptures in pop-up room – image by Dani Meyering

ICE! at Gaylord Palms Event Details

Families can bundle up in the resort’s blue parkas, step into the story of Rudolph, and marvel at the beauty. And as you visit with your family, take a moment to revel in the skill and artistry that begins long before opening day.

Because before there’s magic, there are makers!

Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.