Of Ice and Snowmen

The Snow and Ice in Moscow international festival is certainly a sight to see. The festival takes place annually from January 2nd to February 28th. Sculptor teams from Italy, Finland, Uzbekistan, Belarus, and Russia come together to create brilliant works of art in real-time, for all attending to see. The Russian team of artists specifically represents 23 different cities across Russia such as St. Petersburg, Moscow, Sochi, Kargopol, and Ryazan. 

The participating teams may create snow sculptures, ice sculptures, or snowmen that represent true works of art. There is a snow and ice exhibition where sculptors create pieces in real-time, beginning with just a block of ice. There is also a snow fan zone where the regions of Russia are represented through 6-meter-tall snowmen. Attendees can even enjoy a Disney exhibition as artists recreate characters from popular Disney shows and movies such as Moana, Mickey Mouse, and Frozen. Just to add to the fun, there are street theatres with professional theatre actors putting on performances. 

Want to get hands-on? Snow sculpture training sessions are even offered at the festival, free of charge. The festival is open from 11:00 to 21:00, and information from the events program can be seen on the festival website.

The only downside? The works aren't meant to last as the seasons change.