What comes to mind when you think of Swiss winters? Snow-capped mountains and fur-clad people always on the lookout for an adventure? Or, do you dream of sitting by an open-log fire with warm fondue and a glass of the famous Glühwein wine for company? While all this imagery is only too accurate, it paints just half the picture of what Switzerland really has to offer during its renowned winter season.
The other half of this enchanting winter wonderland comprises decades of traditions kept alive through world-renowned festivals — a must-see for all visitors and residents alike. January is lined up with two global festivals that attract hordes of visitors each year living up the celebrations with equally enthusiastic locals.
When the temperature drops far below zero degrees in late January, artists and sculptors from all over the world gather at Grindelwald, near Interlaken to carve out extraordinary ice sculptures at the Six – Day World Snow Festival. What began several decades ago (with an ice sculpture carving by visiting Japanese Artists of the children’s book character, Heidi),
has now taken on the form of an annual cultural gathering that has since become a part of the heritage of this glacier village.
The 2019 theme for the festival is ‘Dreams’, to celebrate ice-cold art. A jury of experts will judge the giant-snow sculptures. Visitors too are welcome to give their impressions of the works of art, which will later be taken into account by the judges.
During the six-day duration of the festival, the streets of the snowy town of Grindelwald turn into a beautiful fantasy world with the white statues springing to life in each corner of the town. These alluring sculptures hold shape until the ice melts, creating an unforgettable experience for all those that witness their beauty.
