World Of Wanderlust

Winter is finally here, and it’s the perfect time to start planning your winter vacation and see the world! There are plenty of fun winter activities you can enjoy globally. We’ve put together a list of the best winter festivals around the world happening in early 2024. So, read on to discover some amazing events!

Best Winter Festivals Around the World:

Sapporo Snow Festival, Japan
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the most famous winter festivals, attracting people from all corners of the world. The festival features hundreds of intricate ice sculptures and snow statues across three sites in Hokkaido, Japan: Tsu Dome, Susukino, and Odori. Besides the stunning sculptures, you can also enjoy concerts and other entertaining events.
Dates in 2024: February 4 to February 11

Holmenkollen Ski Festival, Norway
In Oslo, the capital of Norway, you’ll find the Holmenkollen Ski Festival, a traditional annual Nordic ski event that draws significant attention. The festival includes ski-jumping competitions and numerous other activities. If you love skiing, this is the place to be. There’s also a world-class Ski Museum where you can learn more about the sport.
Dates in 2024: March 9 to March 10

St. Paul Winter Carnival, USA
Head to downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, for the St. Paul Winter Carnival. This exciting festival features a scavenger hunt, an ice fishing tournament, a parade, golfing on ice, and bingo night. It’s a fun spot where many people in the U.S. come to enjoy their winter break.
Dates in 2024: January 26 to February 5

Winterlude, Canada
Winterlude in Ottawa, Ontario, is one of Canada’s top winter destinations. Enjoy this annual festival for free and marvel at the beautiful ice sculptures. Don’t miss ice skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dates in 2024: January 25 to February 3

The Quebec Winter Carnival, Canada
The Quebec Winter Carnival is the oldest and largest winter carnival in the world, dating back to 1893. Located in Quebec City, this festival includes snow sculptures, night parades, exhibitions, and ice skating. It’s a fantastic way to add some excitement to the dark winter days.
Dates in 2024: February 2 to February 11

Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, China
Held in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, this is the largest snow and ice festival in the world. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular ice sculptures in various shapes and sizes. The festival also offers ice biking, entertaining performances, skating, and plenty of food and drinks to enjoy.
Dates in 2024: December 21, 2023, to February

The Shetland Viking Fire Festival, Scotland
Also known as Up Helly Aa, this unique one-day festival takes place in Lerwick, Scotland. The event features a procession of people dressed in Viking gear, with around 900 participants and 850 torches being hurled into the Jarl’s gallery.
Dates in 2024: January 12 to March 1

The Whitefish Winter Carnival, USA
In Whitefish, Montana, the local community gathers for the Whitefish Winter Carnival. This annual festival includes a torchlight ski parade, ice sculpting, the Penguin Plunge, a hockey contest, ski races, and a pie social. Enjoy breathtaking views of Big Mountain during the event.
Dates in 2024: February 2 to February 4

Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival, Japan
The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is one of Japan’s top three fire festivals and a highly anticipated event each year. In Nozawa Onsen Village, a large wooden structure is set ablaze for a stunning climax. This sacred tradition dates back 300 years.
Dates in 2024: January 15

Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival, USA
Founded in 1914, the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival is one of the most cherished winter festivals in the U.S. Located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, the festival features activities like skiers jumping and a parade with the Steamboat’s skiing high school band.
Dates in 2024: February 8 to February 14

Lake Towada Winter Story, Japan
The Lake Towada Winter Story festival is the largest winter event in the Tohoku region of Japan. Enjoy spectacular snow lights, fireworks, and various winter decorations. The festival also offers hot spring foot baths, pony rides, and many other attractions. In previous years, bars inside igloos with disco lights were a highlight. Curious about what’s in store for 2024? Don’t miss it!
Dates in 2024: TBC

Do any of these winter festivals catch your eye? There are plenty more exciting winter activities to discover, so get ready for an adventure-filled winter escape! Choose from many fantastic destinations for your winter vacation. Guided by experienced TripLeaders, you’ll create unforgettable memories. What are you waiting for? Book a trip and explore the world this winter!