DILLON, Colo. (CBS4)– The Ice Castles in Dillon will open on Friday, about a week ahead of schedule. Ice farmers have been working around the clock to get the attraction open as soon as possible.

(credit: CBS)
Organizers say it takes 25 million pounds of ice to make the winter playground. When the frozen project is done, parts of the ice castle in a Summit County baseball field could reach up to 56 feet tall.

(credit: CBS)
This year’s castle will include ice slides, secret passages and water fountains.
Last year’s mild winter delayed the opening for the Ice Castles. Ice farmers say it’s been more like a typical Colorado winter this year.

(credit: CBS)
Opening day is scheduled for Friday and early bird tickets are on sale.