Warm Up with Winter Festivals Around the World

27 February 2026

Winter doesn't have to be all about cold noses and frozen toes—it can be the perfect excuse to celebrate! Across the globe, people fight off the winter blues with dazzling festivals full of light, music, and tradition. Whether you're into fiery parades, enchanting lanterns, or snowy spectacles, there's something for everyone.

So, grab a warm drink, snuggle up, and let's take a trip to the most exciting winter festivals worldwide!

1. Harbin Ice and Snow Festival — China

Where: Harbin, China
When: December – February

If you've ever dreamed of stepping into a frozen fairy tale, Harbin is the place for you. The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is the world's largest ice festival, featuring towering sculptures made entirely of ice and snow. From life-size castles to intricate pagodas that glow at night, it's a stunning display of craftsmanship and creativity.

Expect ice slides, snow art competitions, and even the chance to stay in an ice hotel. Just make sure to bundle up—the temperatures here can drop below -20°C (-4°F)!

2. Sapporo Snow Festival — Japan

Where: Sapporo, Japan
When: Early February

Japan knows how to turn snow into a masterpiece, and the Sapporo Snow Festival is proof of that. Running for a week in February, this festival attracts over two million visitors who come to see the mind-blowing snow and ice sculptures.

From famous landmarks to anime characters, the sculptures are massive and incredibly detailed. There's also a lot to enjoy beyond the art—think snow slides, ice bars, and even live music performances. And of course, no visit to Sapporo is complete without tasting some hot bowls of ramen to keep you warm!

3. Carnaval de Quebec — Canada

Where: Quebec City, Canada
When: Late January – Early February

Winter in Canada is no joke, but that doesn’t stop Quebec City from throwing one of the biggest winter parties in the world. The Carnaval de Quebec is all about embracing the cold with activities like ice canoe races, night parades, and contests of strength (like ax throwing and log sawing).

The festival mascot, Bonhomme, is a beloved snowman dressed in a red sash, and you'll see him everywhere. Brave souls can even take part in a snow bath—yes, that means rolling around in the snow in just your swimsuit! Would you dare?

4. Up Helly Aa — Scotland

Where: Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland
When: Last Tuesday of January

Ever wanted to witness a Viking-style fire festival? Welcome to Up Helly Aa, a fiery spectacle in Scotland’s Shetland Islands. This festival is basically a giant Viking-themed party—locals dress as Norse warriors, march through the streets with torches, and end the night by setting a replica Viking longship ablaze.

It’s an electrifying experience, full of chanting, traditional folk music, and a whole lot of fire. If you’re looking for a festival that will make you forget the cold, this is it!

5. Winterlude — Canada

Where: Ottawa, Canada
When: February

Canada makes another appearance on this list, and for good reason—they know how to make winter fun. Winterlude, held in Ottawa, turns the city into a frosty playground. The Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, stretching over 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles).

There are also incredible ice sculptures, outdoor concerts, and giant snow playgrounds for kids. And let’s not forget the food—beaver tails (a delicious deep-fried pastry) are a must-try!

6. Amsterdam Light Festival — Netherlands

Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands
When: December – January

Winter nights in Amsterdam are anything but dark, thanks to the stunning Amsterdam Light Festival. Artists from all over the world design light installations that are displayed along the city’s canals, turning the waterways into a glowing art gallery.

You can admire the displays by walking, biking, or even taking a cozy canal cruise. It’s romantic, mesmerizing, and a perfect way to experience the magic of winter without having to bundle up too much!

7. St. Paul Winter Carnival — USA

Where: St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
When: Late January – Early February

Minnesota may be freezing in the winter, but that doesn’t stop St. Paul from throwing an epic winter carnival. This festival is packed with activities like an ice palace, ice carving competitions, and even a treasure hunt.

One of the coolest parts? The legend behind it! The carnival is said to be inspired by “the King of the Winter Realm” who arrives to battle “the Fire King.” It’s a fun way to turn winter into a mythical adventure!

8. Chinese New Year — Various Locations

Where: China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Chinatowns Worldwide
When: Late January – February (Dates Vary)

Chinese New Year is celebrated with grand festivities across the world, lighting up the winter season with fireworks, red lanterns, and dragon dances. While it’s not exclusively a "winter festival," it often takes place during the coldest months, bringing warmth through family gatherings, feasts, and joyful celebrations.

Each city has its own way of celebrating, from the massive parades in Hong Kong to the breathtaking lantern festivals in Taiwan. One thing’s for sure—wherever you celebrate, you’ll feel the energy and excitement!

9. Rovaniemi Christmas Celebrations — Finland

Where: Rovaniemi, Finland
When: December

If you love all things Christmas, Rovaniemi in Finland is the ultimate winter wonderland. Officially recognized as the "Home of Santa Claus," this magical town offers the chance to meet Santa, ride in a reindeer sleigh, and witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

December in Rovaniemi feels straight out of a holiday movie, with cozy log cabins, snow-covered forests, and festive lights everywhere. It’s the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit!

10. Junkanoo — Bahamas

Where: Nassau, Bahamas
When: December 26 & January 1

Who says winter festivals have to be cold? Junkanoo in the Bahamas brings the heat with its Caribbean-style street parade. Think vibrant costumes, infectious drumming, and non-stop dancing.

Held on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year's Day (January 1), Junkanoo is a colorful explosion of culture and tradition. If you’d rather trade snow for sandy beaches while still enjoying an epic festival, this is the place to be!

Final Thoughts

Winter festivals prove that cold weather doesn’t mean hibernation—it means celebration! Whether you're gazing at icy sculptures, dancing in fire-lit parades, or skating down a frozen canal, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the season.

So, which winter festival is going on your bucket list? Will you brave the ice and snow or head somewhere warm and vibrant? No matter your choice, winter is a season worth celebrating!