A Winter Wonderland Awaits at the 2026 World Snow Celebration
The 13-day festival will bring winter to life in Stillwater, hosting the World Snow Sculpting Championship uniting 16 nations in breathtaking competition.
Each January, Stillwater transforms into a spectacular winter celebration, and the excitement is set to return from January 13 to 25, 2026. The World Snow Celebration stands out as a gathering showcasing international artistry, community events, and cultural experiences packed into 13 days.
The World Snow Sculpting Championship, scheduled for January 14 to 17, will see 16 elite teams from five continents battle for the coveted title of World Champion. This year's competitors were chosen from a record 36 applications from 24 countries, which ensures a diverse lineup filled with talent and creativity.
Meet the Competing Nations
The sculpting teams represent the following nations:
- Canada
- Denmark
- Ecuador
- Great Britain
- India
- Lithuania
- Malta
- Mexico
- Mongolia
- New Zealand
- Peru
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Turkey
- Switzerland
- United States of America
These talented sculptors will use massive blocks of snow to create stunning artworks, with each sculptor aiming for the title of World Champion. Attendees can expect to witness sculptures that seamlessly blend cultural heritage, artistic skill, and sheer creativity, transforming downtown Stillwater into an unforgettable outdoor exhibition.
Robin Anthony, President of the Greater Stillwater Chamber Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the event: "This event brings the world to Minnesota in the most extraordinary way. The artistry and dedication of these teams elevate snow sculpting to world-class performance levels, and Stillwater is proud to serve as the host city for such an international celebration of talent and creativity."
Winter Culture and Community Engagement
The World Snow Celebration transcends mere competition; it celebrates winter's beauty in all its forms. Attendees can enjoy a vibrant program featuring live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local food and beverage experiences, and the chance to meet the sculptors during their creative process. Each day presents a wonderful opportunity to witness the art being created live and to engage with a community inspired by winter's magic.
Building Community Through Partnership
The Greater Stillwater Chamber Foundation is delighted to partner once again with HealthPartners, continuing their role as the title sponsor for this fifth edition of the World Snow Celebration. This partnership highlights a long-standing commitment to serving the St. Croix Valley area, which is further enhanced with ongoing developments, including a new hospital campus featuring a TRIA Orthopedics clinic and urgent care services.
Andrea Walsh, HealthPartners' president and CEO, stated, "We are proud to support the World Snow Celebration alongside the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the city of Stillwater. Our winters are part of our identity, and gatherings like this unite people to celebrate the season and foster a healthy, vibrant community."
Event Details
Dates: January 13 to 25, 2026
- World Snow Sculpting Championship: January 14 to 17, 2026
Location: Stillwater, Minnesota USA
About World Snow Celebration
The World Snow Celebration is an annual winter festival located in Stillwater. It centers around the World Snow Sculpting Championship, showcasing exceptional snow sculpting talent and incorporating live entertainment, activities for families, cultural programming, and regional food experiences. Founded with the Greater Stillwater Chamber Foundation and the city of Stillwater, the festival represents a significant celebration of winter artistry and community spirit.
About Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and Foundation
The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce is committed to serving, advocating, and promoting local businesses while enriching community life. Representing its members is not merely an obligation but a privilege, with the slogan "Bridging Business & Community" symbolizing its mission to foster a stronger and more vibrant Stillwater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the World Snow Celebration?
The World Snow Celebration is an annual winter festival featuring artistic snow sculptures, live entertainment, and various cultural activities.
When will the event take place?
The celebration is scheduled to occur from January 13 to 25, 2026.
Which teams will be participating in the sculpture competition?
Sixteen teams from countries including Canada, India, and the United States will compete for the championship title.
What types of activities can attendees expect?
Attendees can enjoy live performances, family-friendly activities, regional food and drink, and opportunities to meet the sculptors.
How can I learn more about the event?
More information can typically be found by visiting the event's official website or local chamber of commerce resources.
