On Jan. 26 Main Street held an annual ice competition for the community to watch, compete and enjoy. The ice competition, Fete de Glace, has been going for over 20 years and was open all day to the public. All down the blocks of main street there were blocks of ice where local carvers stood behind, carving and chipping away to make a signature statue.

“I think it is a really great example of the St Charles community,” Foundry Arts Centre Executive Director Melissa Whitwam said. “St. Charles has great festivals and this is one of them.”

People in the community not only gathered to witness the carvings, but also to enjoy hot cocoa, snow filled winter games and the local shops open to browse in.

“This event is to promote the area,” President of Historic Downtown Main Street Penny Pitman said. “This helps people wake up and get out after the holidays, and this is the next big event.”

There were 5 of the best carvers in the St. Louis area present this year. In the past the carvers were rated by professional judges, but these last few years they have increased community involvement by letting the crowds vote for their favorite design.

The Fete de Glace had a great turnout from the surrounding community and hopes to see more people in the upcoming years to better promote the historic downtown of St. Charles.