The 5th Harbin Ice Harvest Festival officially commenced on Saturday, transforming the frozen Songhua River in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, into a dazzling winter wonderland. The grand opening ceremony attracted a vibrant mix of locals and international tourists, all eager to witness the ceremonial pulling of the first ice block from the river—a tradition steeped in local folklore and tradition.
Festival-goers were treated to a variety of engaging activities, including ice carving demonstrations, traditional folk performances, and the chance to savor delectable local delicacies. The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by the towering six-meter snow sculptures of \"Binbin\" and \"Nini,\" the beloved mascots of the upcoming Asian Winter Games. These impressive sculptures have quickly become favorite photo spots, adding a touch of magic to the event.
Over the next few weeks, the harvested ice will play a critical role in constructing the world-renowned Harbin Ice and Snow World. Additionally, the ice will serve as the foundation for the venues and elaborate sculptures slated for the Asian Winter Games, scheduled to take place in February 2025. As the festival progresses, attendees can look forward to an array of winter-themed attractions and performances that celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to creating breathtaking ice art.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
