ORLANDO — The heavy onset of 90+ temperatures across Central Florida this month likely has plenty of local residents wishing they could be someplace cooler — maybe even someplace where its downright cold.
Icebar Orlando is happily reminding folks that they can enjoy drinks, music — and below-freezing temperatures — at their bar on International Drive.
To add to the fun this summer, Icebar has launched a patriotic party. Now through Labor Day on Sept. 7, Icebar is hosting what they promise will be “Orlando’s coolest summer celebration” complete with a specialty themed drink menu, brand-new ice sculptures, and new patriotic décor meant to get residents in the spirit of America’s 250th birthday bash. The summer-long celebration, dubbed Red, White & Chill: America’s 250th Celebration, will be a “one-of-a-kind experience,” Icebar pledges, one that mixes patriotic themes with Icebar’s renowned 18-degree temps.
What is Red, White & Chill: America’s 250 Celebration?
“This summer, Icebar Orlando is bringing the ultimate summer escape to Orlando nightlife with a red, white and blue twist,” the bar notes. To get residents and visitors into the spirit of America’s 250th, Red, White & Chill features “festive décor throughout the venue, specialty cocktails, brand-new themed ice sculptures inspired by America’s 250th celebration in the Icebar.”
The new drink menu will include cocktails with patriotic themes, including:
- Firecracker Margarita
- Liberty Lemonade
- Star Spangled Smash
- Merica Mule
- Freedom Flight
- and the Summer Sparkler mocktail.
Thomas Kerr, owner of Icebar, said guests can enjoy the arctic temps inside the ice room, while also celebrating the nation’s anniversary in style — while beating the sweltering summer heat.
“There is truly no better place to cool off than at Icebar Orlando,” Kerr said. “This 4th of July is especially exciting as America’s 250th birthday, and so we wanted to do something extra special. Whether guests are planning a date night, a vacation stop, happy hour or a night out with friends, our Red, White & Chill is sure to deliver the ultimate patriotic party and unforgettable experience all summer long.”
What is Icebar Orlando?
Icebar Orlando first opened in October 2008, offering guests the option of relaxing in the Fire Lounge, which is kept at normal room temperature, or cooling down in the upstairs Icebar, where temperatures are maintained at a frigid 18 degrees, and where the bar, tables, chairs, and even the glasses are made out of ice.
The establishment has become popular for housing the largest permanent Icebar in the world, with 70+ tons of hand-carved ice, an Arctic experience for anyone who is eager to get out of Florida’s summer heat.
Guests are “welcomed into our unique arctic experience in the Icebar with warm coats and gloves,” the bar notes. “Our team is always available to take complimentary pictures while guests enjoy the fabulously frozen ice sculptures and sip one of Icebar Orlando’s many delicious cocktails chilled perfectly and served in custom ice glasses. For an elevated experience or special occasion, VIP and Bottle Service is available in the Fire Lounge.”
Where is Icebar Orlando?
Central Florida’s residents and visitors alike can experience Icebar Orlando’s Red, White & Chill: America’s 250 Celebration now through Labor Day at 8967 International Drive. To learn more, visit the Icebar website or call 407-426-7555.
Happy Hour at Icebar is Sunday-Thursday until 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 7 p.m. The bar opens at 5 p.m. daily, closing at midnight Mondays through Wednesdays, 1 a.m. on Thursdays and Sundays, and at 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests 21 years old and older are welcome at all times, while guests ages 8-20 can attend between 5-9 p.m.
Entry into Fire Lounge is free, while standard Icebar admission is $21 at the door or $15 in advance online.
Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright, and author of the book “Bloody Rabbit”. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.
