While Nathan Phillips Square celebrated winter by setting itself on fire Yorkville took the opposite route and went for a deep freeze.

Bloor-Yorkville IceFest is taking place this weekend and Cumberland Street was once again lined with amazing ice sculptures turning the street into a winter wonderland. This is the 8th annual Sassafraz Ice Carving Competition in the Village of Yorkville Park.

The highlight of the event is the Underwater Kingdom. 25,000 pounds of ice have been converted into a sunken pirate ship, complete with coral, pearls, a treasure chest, mermaids, and King Neptune.

Chainsaws whirled and ice chips flew through the air as numerous artists competed for the votes of those admiring their work. Donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation were accepted and some area retailers were donating a portion of their Saturday sales to the foundation. A giant Ontario Tourism snowglobe sat in front of the Hudson's Bay Centre at Yonge and Bloor.

The third annual Bloor-Yorkville IceFest runs from February 21st to the 24th.

More photos below in the slideshow: