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Introduction to Stardew Valley Festival of Ice Guide
Stardew Valley Festival of Ice
The festival features ice sculptures, snowmen, and igloos, along with an Ice Fishing Contest where players compete against Pam, Willy, and Elliott. To win, the player must catch at least five fish—otherwise, Willy takes first place. On the first victory, the prize includes a Barbed Hook, Dressed Spinner, Magnet, and a Sailor’s Cap. For any future wins, the reward is a Prize Ticket.
In multiplayer, if multiple players tie for first place, all of them receive the reward.
Because the ice fishing holes are small, casting into them can be tricky. The easiest method is to stand close to the hole and cast only a short distance. Players can also fish in the forest pond and forest river—however, only fish caught in the pond count toward the contest total; those caught in the river do not.
The festival automatically ends once Mayor Lewis announces the fishing contest results. On the day of the festival, all homes and shops in Stardew Valley are locked and inaccessible.
Shop
| Image | Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rarecrow | Collect them all! (4 of 8) |
 5,000g
|
| Tree of the Winter Star | Can be placed as decoration. |
5,000g
|
| Wallpaper | Decorates the walls of one room. |
5,00g
|
| Frozen Dreams | Can be placed inside your house. |
2,000g
|
| Icy Rug | Can be placed inside your house. |
4,000g
|
Additional Tips
Tip #1
To make the most of the Festival of Ice in Stardew Valley, it’s essential to plan ahead. Since all shops and homes are closed on festival day, gather any necessary supplies the day before or after the event, including food, tools, and any other items you might need. The festival runs from 9 AM to 2 PM, so arriving early will give you more time to enjoy all it has to offer, including the Traveling Merchant’s booth and interacting with the NPCs.
Tip #2
During the ice fishing competition, a few strategies can improve your chances. Standing close to the ice hole and using minimal casting distance will help land your fishing line more accurately. Focus on catching as many fish as possible, as the quantity matters more than quality. Keep in mind that fish only count toward your score after the animation of the fish flying back to you is completed—if the timer runs out before that, the fish won’t count. If fishing is a struggle, practicing the mini-game beforehand can help improve your skills, and using the best available fishing rod can also make a big difference.
Tip #3
While at the festival, don’t miss the Traveling Merchant’s booth, which offers unique items you can’t get anywhere else. This includes the rarecrow, decorative items, and festive food, though note that the rarecrow is more expensive at the festival than when purchased from the traveling cart. The merchant’s inventory is also specific to the festival, offering different items compared to other times of the year. Be sure to take time to interact with Penny and Willy to enjoy their special festival dialogues, but remember, NPCs cannot be interacted with during the fishing competition itself.
Tip #5
If you’re playing in multiplayer, there’s no need to compete for the win—the reward will be given to all winning players. Unlike most festivals, there’s no food available during the Festival of Ice, so it’s a good idea to eat before or bring your own food to the event. The festival will end automatically after Mayor Lewis judges the fishing competition, and players will be returned to their farm at 10 PM. If you miss the festival, don’t worry—it’s a recurring event that takes place every year on the same day, so you can always participate next year.
Frequently Asked Question (F.A.Q)
❓When is the Festival of Ice held?
📍Winter 8, every year.
❓Where does it take place?
📍In the forest area south of your farm (Cindersap Forest). You can’t enter the area until 9:00 AM, and the festival starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 2:00 PM.
❓How do I get there?
📍Leave your farm and head south to Cindersap Forest. A path will be cleared and the festival location marked.
❓Can I miss it?
📍Yes. If you don’t attend before 2:00 PM, you’ll miss it for that year.
❓What is the main event at the Festival of Ice?
📍The Ice Fishing Contest between you and some villagers (Willy, Pam, and Elliot).
❓How do I win the Ice Fishing Contest?
📍Catch more fish than your opponents in the time limit (you get 2 minutes to fish). Usually 5 or more fish wins.
❓What fishing level do I need?
📍No specific level required, but higher levels make it easier. Practice helps!
❓Can I give gifts or use tools?
📍No. Tools and gifting are disabled during the festival.
❓Are there any unique shops or booths?
📍Not at this festival. It’s mainly about the contest and socializing.
❓Can I talk to villagers?
📍Yes! Everyone has unique dialogue during the festival.
