Snowbanks Turn into Art in Picturesque Breck
With its beautiful location in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Breckenridge is perfect for the annual International Snow Sculpture Championships. In late January, teams from around the world gather to sculpt huge blocks of the white stuff. Participants from as far away as Mexico, Canada and Lithuania have flocked to Colorado year after year for the competition. In fact, in 2010, Lithuania won First Place and the Kid’s Choice Award. Visit this year to see some of the finest snow sculptors on the planet work their art.
Annual International Snow Sculpture Championships Jan. 22 -
Feb. 3, 2013 Breckenridge, CO The sculpting begins at 11:00 am on Tuesday and lasts until 10:00 am on Saturday, and then the judging begins. See the awards ceremony at 3:30 pm on Sunday, and view the sculptures until February 3.
Breckenridge is a quaint historic town that was founded in 1859. Skiing is so popular here that the town boasts an eponymously-named ski resort. Great vacation homes are also abundant in the area.
There are many attractions in Breckenridge in addition to the fantastic skiing and the International Snow Sculpture Championships. Breckenridge Bliss Massage Therapy and Sol Impressions Massage Studio offer hot stone massage, reflexology and body scrubs. Vacationers can get a birds-eye view of the spectacular scenery on-board a colorful hot air balloon with Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides. You can also explore the peaceful countryside on horseback with Breckenridge Stables.
What to Bring
In January, Breckenridge’s high alpine environment is gorgeous but icy. A climate like this requires warm clothing, a heavy coat, hat and gloves. High-traction shoes or boots are also recommended. It’s a good idea to pack extra blankets too. Of course, you can always cuddle up in front of a fireplace at most
Breckenridge vacation homes and condos to stay toasty.
Competition Schedule
You’ll have the unique opportunity to watch how the snow blocks are built during the event’s Technical Week. And if you really want to get involved, you can also volunteer to help. The sculpting gets underway with a shotgun start late in the morning of opening day. You’ll get to watch the artists create these amazing works of art for several days until the judging begins. After the competition the sculptures will be available for public viewing until early February.
Where to See the Sculptures
The Riverwalk Center becomes a whimsical wonderland during the International Snow Sculpture Championships. You’ll see the competition sculptures in the center’s parking lot and exhibition sculptures can be found on the lawn at Blue River Plaza. Though the plaza is across the river from the center, both are within walking distance of Main Street.
You’ll find Event Headquarters inside the Riverwalk Center where the event staff is available for information. Stop by to place your vote for the People’s Choice Award. Volunteers will also be walking around town taking votes. Event Headquarters also sells souvenirs such as postcards, fleeces and pins, and visitors can explore the 20-year history of the competition.
Parking and Free Transportation
Parking is available for a fee at the Riverwalk Center, but there’s free parking at the courthouse, Barney Ford and French Street lots. Breckenridge Free Ride provides transportation throughout the International Snow Sculpture Championships. The buses run from early morning to late at night and you’ll find maps at Event Headquarters.
Book a Condo in Breck Near the Festivities
5 REASONS YOU WILL LOVE THIS CONDO:
1. CONVENIENT: Walk to everything! Just a 3-4 minute walk to the ski lift and shops and restaurants in town
2. AMENITIES & ACTIVITIES: Hot tubs / swimming pool and hiking / biking trails just steps from the c...
What enchanted us about this condo was its peaceful wooded setting by the Blue River. It is a second-floor corner unit, quiet and private, close enough to the ground to hear the river and high enough to have a spectacular view of the snow on the p...
The River Mountain Lodge offers the convenience and comforts of a condominium (with hotel amenities) in the heart of historic downtown Breckenridge. The lodge is located across the street from the end of the 4 O'Clock Run at corner of Park Ave. an...
This is it: The best slope-access location in Breckenridge! The Peak 9 base area is where it’s at: The ski school, ski shops, restaurants, night life, the Quicksilver Super6 lift and more are just outside your door. You’ll also have access to the ...
This is it: The best slope-access location in Breckenridge! The Peak 9 base area is where it’s at: The ski school, ski shops, restaurants, night life, the Quicksilver Super6 lift and more are just outside your door. You’ll also have access to the ...
