International Snow Sculpture Championships in Breckenridge

Artists flock to Breck for the international snow sculpture championships. It’s the world’s greatest display of snow carvings, and it takes place every winter in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Imagine 12-foot-tall, 20-plus-ton blocks of snow intricately carved into people, animals, and abstract sculptures—a wonderland made entirely from snow by hand. No power tools are allowed.

This temporary, outdoor art display rivals some of the most impressive marble and stone sculpture exhibitions globally, making it a must-see event in Colorado.

Typically, late January kicks off the annual International Snow Sculpture Championships, gathering top teams from across the globe to see who can carve the most impressive creation from snow.

The Snow Carving Process

Participants have just 65 hours to transform snowballs into stunning sculptures. As the final night approaches, artists work intensely to perfect their designs. Each team consists of up to four members, and due to the physical demands of the work, shifts may be needed to manage fatigue.

Furthermore, battling the cold is a substantial challenge for the artists, as they do not engage in high-energy activities like skiing to stay warm. While snow sculpting can be rigorous, it simultaneously demands exceptional attention to detail, patience, and artistic precision.

The Competitors

Breckenridge has its own team, but teams can qualify from around the world. Visitors can vote for their favorite creation in the People’s Choice contest. Winners are selected based on originality, design, technical skill, teamwork, and craftsmanship.

Past winners have created sculptures inspired by significant themes, such as a depiction of Noah’s Ark “floating on clouds” amidst a powerful message about climate change. After the winner is crowned, the sculptures are showcased in a dramatic lighting ceremony, illuminating the artwork in various colors.

The illuminated sculptures will remain on display for about a week after the contest concludes, gradually fading away as if they were magically created.

This unique event attracts visitors globally, including skiers who are pleasantly surprised by this beautiful art form at the resort.

Additional Events and Visitor Information

Throughout the few weeks surrounding the Snow Sculpture Championships, a variety of other events and activities take place. Visitors can stop by venues like Thaw Lounge + Music to learn more about the snow sculpting process and gather souvenirs to remember the experience.

It’s advisable to plan ample time to explore the sculptures and capture memorable photographs, ensuring that friends and family back home are amazed by your experiences.

Fun Facts About the Snow Sculpture Championships

• The massive blocks of snow are prepared a week prior to the competition, allowing them time to settle.
• Approximately 320 tons of snow is generated for this contest.
• Volunteer “snow-stompers” help to compact and pack the snow tightly within square molds.
• While artists cannot use power tools, they can employ manual tools such as spoons, knives, shovels, and hand saws to create their masterpieces.

If You Go

Visitors can typically find free parking in various lots, including the Courthouse Lot, Barney Ford Lot, French Street Lot, and off Airport Road. From these locations, public shuttles provide complimentary rides to the event.