Get ready to be dazzled! The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival—the world’s largest and most spectacular winter event—is returning for its 43rd edition in 2027, and it promises to be more magical than ever.

From January 5, 2027, the city of Harbin will transform into a glittering winter wonderland. The main celebrations kick off at the famous Harbin Ice and Snow World, but the magic spreads across the entire city. What makes 2027 extra special? For the first time, the festival will blend breathtaking ice art with cutting-edge technology—think VR and AR experiences that will make you feel like you're walking through a fairytale.

Where to Go and When to Visit

The festival isn’t just one location—it’s a city-wide masterpiece. Here’s where you shouldn’t miss:

● Harbin Ice and Snow World – Best visited after sunset, when millions of LED lights turn the ice castles into a glowing dreamscape.

● Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo – A daytime paradise featuring massive, intricate snow carvings that look almost too perfect to be real.

● Zhaolin Park Ice Lantern Art Fair – The birthplace of China’s ice art tradition, best experienced in the evening when the lanterns glow softly.

● Songhua River Ice and Snow Carnival – Think sleigh rides, ice slides, and non-stop winter fun under the sun.

Most parks are expected to open their gates to the public around December 20, 2026, and will welcome visitors until late February or early March 2027 (weather permitting, of course).

More Than Just Ice: What to Expect

While the ice and snow sculptures are the stars of the show, the festival offers so much more. You can:

● Watch daily winter swimming performances in the frozen Songhua River.

● Cheer on athletes in ice and snow sports competitions.

● Witness breathtaking international snow sculpture contests.

● Even join or watch a romantic ice-and-snow group wedding!

And if you're the adventurous type, don't miss the chance to try ice skating, skiing, sledding, or snowmobiling.

Beyond the Parks

Harbin’s winter charm extends beyond the main venues. Take a stroll down Central Street to sample local treats, visit Stalin Park for riverside views, or explore the fairytale-like Volga Manor. The entire city is dressed for the season, and every corner offers a new photo opportunity.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned festival-goer, the 2027 Harbin Ice Festival promises memories that will last a lifetime. Bundle up, charge your camera, and get ready for the coldest—and coolest—trip of your life.