Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival 2024-2025, China

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival held annually in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, is the largest and most renowned event of its kind in the world. Each winter, hundreds of talented ice sculptors from across the globe gather to craft breathtaking ice masterpieces. The festival draws hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to marvel at these incredible creations, which include some of the world's largest and most intricate ice sculptures

Dates

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival traditionally opens around December 20 and runs until the end of February, although its official opening ceremony typically takes place on January 5 each year. The event lasts for a full month, with the exhibits sometimes remaining open longer, depending on weather conditions.

Locations

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival features three main venues that each highlight different aspects of this grand winter celebration. Harbin Ice and Snow World, open 10 am to 10 pm, is the largest and most colorful venue, often referred to as "Ice Disneyland," where visitors can admire massive ice sculptures of global landmarks, such as the Great Wall of China and the Egyptian Pyramids. The venue is especially magical at night when the sculptures and ice buildings are beautifully illuminated.

Sun Island, from 8 am to 5 pm, is famous for its stunning snow sculptures and is home to the largest indoor ice and snow art museum. Visitors here can witness the intricate snow art and explore the history and creativity behind these unique masterpieces. Finally, Zhaolin Park, open from 9 am to 9 pm, offers a more intimate experience with traditional ice lantern displays. The park showcases smaller yet charming ice sculptures and is an ideal place to experience the cultural heritage of the festival

Events

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival features a wide range of activities, including international ice sculpture competitions, ice lantern shows, and ice sports like ice sliding, ice-sailing, ice hockey, ice football, speed skating, and skiing (both cross-country and Alpine). In addition to winter sports, there are ice carnivals, fishing, swimming, and ice weddings. Cultural highlights include folk song and dance performances, art exhibitions, calligraphy displays, painting exhibitions, and ice and snow film art shows. Visitors can also explore trade fairs and participate in various national and international sports events.

Tickets

To enter the various venues of the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, separate tickets are required for each location. The Ice Lantern Art Fair is free of charge. Tickets for the Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo and Harbin Ice and Snow World are both priced at RMB 330.