#United States #Snow Sculpture #Stillwater #World Snow Celebration

A Celebration of Winter Through Art: The 2026 World Snow Celebration

Every January, the charming town of Stillwater, Minnesota, becomes a winter wonderland as it hosts the World Snow Celebration. This year, from January 13 to 25, 2026, visitors will be treated to a stunning display of creativity and talent during the World Snow Sculpting Championship. This remarkable festival brings together artists from around the globe, showcasing their skills in transforming massive piles of snow into intricate sculptures.

Artistry and Competition

The heart of the World Snow Celebration lies in the World Snow Sculpting Championship, which will take place from January 14 to 17. This year, 16 elite teams from five continents will compete for the prestigious title of World Champion, selected from an impressive pool of 36 applications, representing 24 countries. The teams hail from diverse locations, including:

• - Canada
• - Denmark
• - India
• - Mexico
• - United States

and many more!

Each team will craft elaborate sculptures that not only reflect their unique cultural backgrounds but also push the boundaries of snow sculpting artistry. Visitors can expect an outdoor gallery filled with breathtaking artwork, with massive blocks of snow transforming into stunning visuals over the course of the competition.

A Festival Beyond the Sculptures

The World Snow Celebration is much more than just a competition; it’s a vibrant festival celebrating winter culture. Attendees will enjoy a wide variety of live performances, family-friendly activities, and regional food and beverage experiences. As families and friends gather, they have the opportunity to meet the sculptors and witness the creative process firsthand each day.

The festival promises numerous attractions and events designed to engage attendees of all ages, creating a shared sense of community and wonder. According to Robin Anthony, President of the Greater Stillwater Chamber Foundation, "This event brings the world to Minnesota in the most extraordinary way. The artistry and dedication of these teams elevate snow sculpting to the level of world-class performance."

Building Community Through Partnerships

Proudly sponsoring the event is HealthPartners, who has teamed up with the Greater Stillwater Chamber Foundation for the fifth year in a row. Their commitment to supporting the community extends beyond the festival, as HealthPartners continues to serve the residents of the St. Croix Valley with a new hospital campus on the horizon.

Andrea Walsh, President and CEO of HealthPartners, commented, "We’re proud to partner again this year to support the World Snow Celebration. Our winters are part of who we are, and events like this are a way to bring people together, embrace the season, and support a vibrant, healthy community."

Mark Your Calendars

Don’t miss out on this fantastic winter event! From January 13 to 25, 2026, the World Snow Celebration invites everyone to experience the magic of winter artistry in Stillwater, Minnesota. With the World Snow Sculpting Championship as the centerpiece, there's no doubt this event will be one for the books, showcasing international talent in a festive atmosphere filled with community spirit.

For more information about the festival and how to participate, please visit worldsnowcelebration.com. Join us as we celebrate the creativity and artistry that makes winter remarkable in Stillwater!