Harbin’s 27th Ice Festival Breaks Records with Massive Snow and Ice Displays
The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival has opened its 27th edition with a record-breaking display. Over 400,000 cubic metres of ice and snow were used to build this year’s attractions. Visitors can explore the winter wonderland until mid-February, provided the weather stays favourable.
The festival’s construction relied on a massive effort from local and international teams. Municipal authorities, tourism groups, and commercial ice-sculpting crews in Harbin led the planning and execution. No single artist collective is officially credited, but 76 artists from different countries contributed their skills.
Among the highlights are detailed recreations of Harbin’s classic buildings. These icy replicas stand alongside new sculptures and interactive displays. The event has grown steadily since its first edition, now drawing crowds from around the world. Organisers emphasised the scale of this year’s festival, which required more materials than ever before. The structures range from towering ice palaces to intricate snow carvings, all designed to withstand the cold.
The festival will remain open for several more weeks, weather conditions permitting. Visitors can experience the elaborate ice and snow designs until the scheduled closing in mid-February. This year’s edition marks another milestone in Harbin’s long tradition of winter celebrations.
