Watch lifeless blocks of snow transform into magnificent creations at the International Snow Sculpture Competition in Breckenridge. At this unique festival, snow sculptors from all over the world gather to bring their best designs to life.
Technical Week
The festivities begin the week before the actual competition. January 16-21 the blocks of snow are constructed. They are given time to sit, compact, and solidify, making it easier for the sculptors to work with the snow. You can watch the process of the blocks being made or even volunteer to help. Contact information for volunteering can be found at GoBreck.com.
Sculpting
The sculptors begin their work on Monday, January 22nd. They have until Friday to complete their sculptures. Visitors are allowed to walk through and watch the artists dig out their masterpieces from the bare blocks of snow. All sculptures must be completed by Friday (many work into the wee hours of the night to complete) and there will be an awards ceremony Friday evening at 6:00. The sculptures are judged by a panel of judges. Bronze, silver, and gold medals are awarded. There is also a People’s Choice Award, for which any visitor can vote.
Viewing
Throughout the weekend the sculptures can be viewed day or night. After dark is a magical time to experience the snow sculptures. Impressive lighting displays bring added character to these magnificent works. Be aware that snow is impacted by the weather and warm temperatures can begin to play a role in deteriorating the snow. Catch the sculptures early if you want to see them fully intact. The sculptures will be removed Monday night, January 29th and the magic is over until next year.
Kids’ Events
Kids and grown-ups alike look forward to this event. There is typically a snow sculpture that is not part of the competition that kids are invited to play on. On Saturday, the 27th, kids 9 and up are invited to participate in the junior sculpting competition. They will get to work on a sculpture using the same type of snow blocks as the competitive sculptors, and learn the craft of sculpting from Breckenridge’s own sculptor, Mauricio Meneses. This event will take place at Main Street Station and is free and open to the public.
Location
The snow sculpture competition will take place in the area around the River Walk Center, off of West Adams Avenue. Free parking is available at the Airport Road lot with a free shuttle service. Free public transportation is also available throughout Breckenridge.
Plan Your Trip
Consider planning your ski vacation during the end of January so that you can enjoy the slopes and participate in this unique and captivating event. Contact Breckenridge Resort Managers to find a great property for your ski getaway.
