If you live in the Northeast of the U.S., we’re currently up to our eyeballs in what the news always calls snowmageddon. In other words, it’s been snowing pretty hard on and off (but mostly on) for the last 24 hours. The TV is full of winter storm-related doom and gloom, so it seemed appropriate to share something that celebrates snow rather than dragging it. Welcome to the World Snow Sculpting Championship, which takes place in mid-to-late January every year in Lowell Park in Stillwater, MN. (And you know in Minnesota, they’re not afraid of snow…). The championship actually ended yesterday, so there’s still plenty to appreciate. Hosted by The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition has been a hit with winter appreciators the world over since its creation in 2020. The championship was actually the brainchild of the city’s mayor in response to the Covid shutdown.

“Our beloved town of Stillwater is powered by small businesses with big hearts. In 2020 when our busy little Main Street came to a startling halt, we feared for the future of our bustling tourist town. Led by our Mayor, the Chamber of Commerce, City Staff and locals, the Wintertime in Stillwater movement was created… Stillwater, a haven for the arts, seemed like a perfect fit for a snow sculpting event… We learned about Winter Fun LLC, a snow sculpting organization. They were searching for the right host for a World Competition and found Stillwater to be the perfect spot for the inaugural event!”

You can learn more about the World Snow Sculpting Championship on the World Snow Celebration website and on Instagram and Facebook.

When I think of Minnesota, I think of inhospitable winters. Apparently, I’m not far off. The city of Stillwater is host to the annual international-acclaimed World Snow Sculpting Championship, and it’s every bit as fascinating as it sounds. However, I am happy to stay at home in my jammies, checking it out from the comfort of my desk. (I dislike cold, F.Y.I.).

You can learn more about the World Snow Sculpting Championship on the competition’s website and on Instagram and Facebook.