A World of Ice, Snow, and Norse Mythology: ICEBAR Stockholm Unveils Its 24th Theme

ICEBAR Stockholm is precisely what its name implies: a bar carved entirely out of natural ice. An outpost of the world-renowned ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, it brings a slice of the Arctic to the Swedish capital. Guests need not venture to the northernmost parts of Sweden to encounter it, as it sits tucked away inside Hotel C, right in the heart of the city. Still, everything within is made of ice and snow—from walls and decor to the cocktail glasses themselves.

On March 13, this year’s edition was inaugurated: a frozen journey through Norse mythology. Behind this year’s design are the artists Tjåsa Gusfors from Sweden and Isabelle Gasse from Canada.

– We wanted to create a place where guests can truly experience the mythology—a living artwork in ice, where the story unfolds around you, say Isabelle Gasse and Tjåsa Gusfors.

The Story of Yggdrasil, the Sacred World Tree

Much like winter melts away with the first warm rays of spring, so too does ICEBAR Stockholm take on a new shape every year. Each spring, a new design theme is unveiled, with past concepts ranging from urban myths and archipelagos to distorted realities over the years. Here, the only constant is the material. The ice used to make the bar is harvested from the Torne River, one of Sweden’s national rivers and among the last untouched waterways.

Inside the 24th rendition of ICEBAR Stockholm, visitors are invited on a journey inspired by Yggdrasil, the mythical tree that connects the nine worlds of Norse mythology. From the powerful roots where the Norns weave the threads of life, through the realm of the gods, and up to Valhalla where fallen heroes gather, guests are surrounded by hand-carved details in ice and snow. Monumental sculptures and dramatic environments create an immersive experience in which every step becomes part of Yggdrasil’s story. 

For designers Tjåsa Gusfors and Isabelle Gasse, the world of ice sculpting is by no means unfamiliar territory. The duo first met while designing art suites at the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi. Swedish artist Gusfors has long collaborated with the hotel, incorporating her unique mix of art, theatre and music into the venue for over 25 years. She works with ice, snow, wood, sand and concrete, and is known for her expressive, material-driven approach.

Isabelle Gasse is a multidisciplinary artist from Québec, Canada. She began sculpting snow at the age of 16, and now works internationally with ice, sand, wood, and film. Her background in film brings a strong narrative dimension to her artistic expression.

About ICEBAR Stockholm

ICEBAR Stockholm has been located at Hotel C since its opening in 2002. It is the world’s first permanent ice bar, redesigned every year. Since day one, it has become a popular attraction for both international visitors and locals seeking a taste of northern Sweden in the centre of Stockholm. Inside the bar, the temperature is kept at a steady -5°C (23°F). To stay warm, guests are provided with a cape and gloves before entering the sub-zero environment.

Hotel C, meanwhile, is the ultimate gateway to Stockholm. Located just steps from Stockholm Central Station, the 367-room hotel is the perfect starting point when exploring everything the city has to offer. Together with its laid-back restaurant and expansive Meetings & Events landscape, Hotel C is known as a flexible basecamp with an unbeatable location.