The World Snow Sculpting Championship Is Returning To This Minnesota Town In 2024

If you want to see some of the top snow sculptures in Minnesota this winter, head to Stillwater January 17 through 21, when this charming St. Croix River town once again hosts the World Snow Sculpting Championship. This is one of our favorite winter activities in Minnesota - and you shouldn't miss it!

The charming town of Stillwater somehow seems even more magical when it wears the mantle of winter.

Perhaps it's the whimsical creatures that emerge along the Stillwater Riverfront each year in January that make it feel that way.

During January, teams of expert snow sculptors from around the world descend on Lowell Park in Stillwater.

There, the teams find large blocks of machine created snow courtesy of nearby Afton Alps.

Sculptors then take these blank canvases of snow and start to work their magic.

They slowly transform the snow into massive sculptures.

Folks come from far and wide to witness the transformation, to pick favorites, and to enjoy some winter cheer during the festivities.

The skill of the snow sculptors cannot be overstated.

The amount of talent, effort, and attention to detail that goes into creating art as fleetingly temporary as a snow sculpture is impressive - and bittersweet.

But, for a fleeting moment every January, you can visit Stillwater, be amazed by these temporary works, and have your spirits lifted.

If you love snow sculptures and you want to see more of these amazing works of frozen art, hit the road and head up to Ely for the community's annual winter festival in February, where you'll find snow sculptures in Minnesota and a ton of other fun winter activities. For more information about the World Snow Sculpting Championship, including a schedule, visit the event's website. You can also check out the World Snow Sculpting Championship's Facebook page for photos and updates.

Have you attended this event in the past? Tell us about your experience in the comments!