The 5th Harbin Ice Harvest Festival launched with icy grandeur this weekend on the frozen Songhua River in northeast China! 🎉 Hundreds braved the chill to watch ceremonial ice-cutting rituals and cheer as the first giant block—destined for sculptures at the 2025 Asian Winter Games—was hauled from the river. 🚚❄️
From River to Art: Crafting Winter Magic 🏔️
Over the next few weeks, harvested ice will shape Harbin Ice and Snow World’s glittering palaces and the sporting venues for the 2025 Asian Winter Games. 🏟️ Pro tip: The event’s mascots, Binbin and Nini, already stole the spotlight with their six-meter-tall snow sculptures—perfect for Insta-worthy snaps! 📸❄️
Festival Vibes & Bites 🥟
Beyond the ice, visitors warmed up with steaming local dishes like braised pork buns and hotpot, while folk performances kept toes tapping. 🎶❤️️ With cultural pride and winter sports colliding, Harbin’s frosty festivities are a must-see! 🌍✨
