By Sherry Fei | January 2026

 

Every winter, Harbin, China, transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, attracting travelers from all over the globe to witness the world-renowned Harbin Ice Festival. Established in 1985, this annual celebration of ice and snow has grown to become one of the most spectacular festivals in the world, showcasing stunning ice sculptures, thrilling winter activities, and a unique cultural experience that is unlike any other.

If you're planning to visit Harbin, China in 2026, you're in for a treat. The festival promises to be even bigger and better than before, with more impressive ice sculptures, exciting events, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a photography lover, or someone looking to experience the magic of winter, the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival has something for everyone.

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The History and Charm of Harbin Ice Festival

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of winter. Held annually from January 5th, the festival lasts through the winter months, culminating in a grand celebration during the Chinese New Year. It is the longest-running ice festival in the world, crossing over the New Year, Chinese New Year, and Lantern Festival, making it a truly special event in the heart of winter.

The festival features some of the most intricate and awe-inspiring ice sculptures in the world. These massive ice structures, crafted from the frozen waters of the Songhua River, are lit up at night, creating an unforgettable scene that looks like something out of a fairytale. Visitors can wander through the Ice City and explore Ice World China, marveling at the art and craftsmanship of these sculptures. Some of the highlights include towering ice castles, replicas of famous landmarks, and sculptures that light up in a rainbow of colors after sundown.

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What to Expect at Harbin Ice Festival 2026

 The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival 2026 will be an extraordinary experience with new attractions and returning favorites. One of the key features of the festival is the Harbin Ice and Snow World, which will once again feature some of the largest and most spectacular ice sculptures in the world. These ice creations will cover an area of over 600,000 square meters and will be illuminated with vibrant lights, creating an ethereal glow against the snowy backdrop.

Additionally, the Snow Sculpture Art Expo on Sun Island will showcase an incredible display of snow sculptures created by talented artists from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the frozen wonderland, admiring these snow masterpieces, many of which depict famous characters, animals, and even mythical creatures.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, the festival also offers a range of winter sports and activities. From ice swimming and snowball fights to snowmobiles and the famous super ice slide, there’s no shortage of thrills to keep you entertained.

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A Feast for Your Senses

While the Harbin Ice Festival is a visual feast, the city also offers a delightful array of local foods that should not be missed during your visit. After exploring the ice sculptures and enjoying winter activities, treat your taste buds to some of Harbin's unique delicacies that will keep you warm and energized.

Harbin Sausage: This savory, smoked sausage is a local favorite and often served alongside mustard or in hot pots. The Harbin sausage is known for its rich flavor and is a must-try for food lovers.

Iron Pot Stew: A hearty dish that's a wintertime favorite in Harbin, Iron Pot Stew is traditionally made by slow-cooking a variety of ingredients such as pork, potatoes, mushrooms, and vegetables in a large, heavy iron pot. The dish is simmered for hours, absorbing all the flavors and creating a comforting, flavorful broth. It's a perfect meal to enjoy with family and friends, especially when the cold temperatures outside make you crave something warming.

Sticky Bean Buns: This traditional snack is a must-try when visiting Harbin. Sticky Bean Buns is a type of steamed bun filled with sweetened mung bean paste or red bean paste. The dough is soft and slightly sticky, and the filling is smooth and sweet. This popular snack is often sold by street vendors and is perfect for a quick bite while strolling through the Ice Festival grounds. It’s warm, filling, and full of flavor!

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These can be found at many street vendors around the festival grounds. Enjoy a warm, sweet, and comforting snack as you wander through the snowy streets.

Ice Cream: Harbin is famous for its unique ice cream, which is often served in the cold winter months. It’s a delightful and unexpected treat, offering a creamy contrast to the chilly air. 

Russian Borscht: Influenced by Harbin's historical Russian connections, borscht (a hearty beet soup) is a local staple. It's rich, tangy, and perfect for warming up during your winter adventure.

Glazed Fruit on Sticks (Tanghulu): A sweet snack of fruits like hawthorn berries or strawberries dipped in sugar syrup, frozen on a stick. It's a classic treat during winter festivals in Harbin, offering both a sweet and sour taste.

These local foods are part of the Harbin Ice Festival experience, offering visitors a chance to savor the flavors of the region while enjoying the stunning ice displays. Make sure to try them as you explore the city and soak in the vibrant festival atmosphere!

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Must-See Highlights at the Festival

Ice City & Ice World China: The largest and most famous ice sculpture exhibition in Harbin, this sprawling winter wonderland features enormous ice castles and ice carvings of landmarks from around the world.

Snow Sculpture Art Expo: On Sun Island, explore hundreds of snow sculptures created by artists from across the globe.

Super Ice Slide: Race down the icy slopes on this exhilarating free-to-ride attraction, one of the most popular activities at the festival.

Snowmobiles & Snow Sports: For adrenaline junkies, the festival offers snowmobiles, ice sports, and even a thrilling snow soccer match on the frozen Songhua River.

Cultural Experiences: Take a step back and enjoy traditional Russian-influenced architecture, visit the Siberian Tiger Park, or relax in a cozy local restaurant to sample Harbin's famous sausage and vodka.

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How to Get There: Routes to Harbin Ice Festival

Planning your trip to Harbin? Here are some convenient ways to get to the festival:

By Train: Harbin is well-connected by train, and you can easily travel from major cities like Beijing or Shanghai to Harbin. The train journey offers scenic views of the northeastern landscape, making it a pleasant and affordable option for travelers. Alternatively, you can book a train from Amsterdam to Harbin, which offers a unique cross-continental travel experience.

By Air: Harbin Taiping International Airport offers direct flights from major international hubs like Beijing, Moscow, and other cities around the world. From the airport, it's a short drive to the festival’s main attractions. 

Local Transportation: Once in Harbin, getting around is easy with the city’s well-developed public transport system, including buses, taxis, and the subway. The Metro is especially convenient for reaching the festival sites.

Practical Tips for Your Harbin Ice Festival Adventure

Dress warmly: Temperatures can drop as low as -20°C, so make sure to bring layered clothing, a thermal jacket, gloves, and a scarf.

Wear sturdy, non-slip boots: The icy streets and park grounds can be slippery, so it’s essential to wear footwear that offers good grip and insulation.

Book early: The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, so make sure to book your accommodation and festival tickets in advance.

Stay hydrated: While it’s cold, the dry winter air can dehydrate you, so keep a bottle of water with you as you explore the festival. 

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/6mRdRtoIjt6Local Insights: Experience Harbin With a Local

Whether you’re admiring the glittering ice sculptures, participating in exciting snow sports, or simply taking in the winter charm of Harbin, the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival offers an experience unlike any other. By booking with Bridge to Locals, you can explore this incredible winter event in the company of a local companion who will ensure that your journey is filled with authentic experiences, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories.

Whether it's visiting off-the-beaten-path food stalls to sample the city's authentic street food, learning about Harbin's fascinating Russian influences, or simply enjoying a warm drink at a local cafe, your local companion will ensure you see the true soul of Harbin. They’ll also help you navigate the festival and share fun facts about the ice sculptures and other attractions.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of Harbin’s Ice Festival in 2026. Get ready to step into a city of ice and embrace the thrill of the coldest place in China!