With the advent of ice bars cropping up all over the world, from South Africa to Sweden, it has never been clearer that partygoers are turning to novel ideas and memorable events to add an extra dimension to standard parties.

For those seeking the ultimate party venue, ice bars are fast becoming the option of choice. From chilly Northern Hemisphere bars in the furthest corners of Sweden or Denmark, all the way through to the thriving metropolises of London and New York, or even South Africa and India, partygoers are donning warm coats to experience the thrills and chills of partying in sub-zero temperatures. These bars are constructed of ice, with bars made from solid blocks of ice that have been chiselled to perfection, and ice sculptures adding and extra flair. Guests sip chilled Absolut vodka or cocktails from glasses made of ice, and walk through rooms made of ice, boasting below freezing temperatures and intricate designs. While these bars may not last all that long, the experience of enjoying a drink or three in a unique frozen atmosphere is proving highly popular.

Some of the top bars of ice found across the world include the following:

– Stockholm, Sweden

Situated in the world-famous ICEHOTEL, Sweden is home to one of the first and most successful ice lounges in the world. The hotel itself is rebuilt every year using blocks of ice from the Torne River, and the bar boasts an impressive main bar, with drinks served from ice glasses and everything from furniture to walls and floors made entirely of ice. At the time, the concept was still ground-breaking, and since its inception, many other bars have been created to follow suit around the world. The bar is broken and rebuilt every six months.

– Orlando, Florida

The Ice-Bar in Orlando is one of the largest permanent bars made from ice in the whole of the United States. The ice designs were created by a master carver who has won awards in the international Ice Carving Olympics and also in Harbin, China at the world’s largest ice festival. The bar is made from over 50 tons of ice, and the interior features a crystal palace with throne, fireplace, sofa and chairs all carved from ice. Cocktails are served in specially crafted ice cocktail glasses which are created by local suppliers on a regular basis.

– London, UK

The Absolute ICEBAR in London is one of the most popular bars, and boasts a full bar made from ice with delicious cocktails served in ice glasses, stunning ice sculptures, walls and ceilings made from ice and many other highlights. All ice used in the creation of London’s ICEBAR is harvested especially from the frozen Torne River in Jukkasjarvi, Northern Sweden. The bar is the UK’s only permanent bar made from ice, and is kept at minus five degrees at all times.

– Tokyo, Japan

In Japan, the Absolut ICEBAR offers a chance to enjoy contemporary designs in ice, as they sip on cocktails from frozen glasses. All guests are given warm jackets and a drink on arrival, and can then wander through the bar’s chilly rooms or enjoy their drink at the huge bar. Entrance for the bar is about entrance fee of 3,500 yen (30 USD) per person.

– Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s trendy Waterfront area was home to Africa’s first ice bar, which was a huge success and the start of many future ice lounges in Southern Africa. Guests enjoyed drinks from frozen glasses made of ice, in tented rooms furnished in ice.

Author Bio: James Cussen offers expert advice on ice bars and intricate ice sculptures.

Category: Entertainment
Keywords: ice sculptures, ice bars, carvings, south africa, cape town