5 Winter Festivals of the World

By Rachel Will - December 20, 2013

Revelers at an ice castle at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival.
Competitor Sean Burch attempting to conquer the North Pole Marathon.
A temple made of ice at the Sapporo Snow Festival.
A visitor inspects a sculpture at the Kiruna Snow Festival. Photo by Martin Smedsen
An installation at the Amsterdam Light Festival by Janet Echelman. Photo by Janus van den Eijnden

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From sub-zero marathons to ice sculpting, the winter season has snow frolickers out in droves—and it’s not just about skiing anymore. Here are five frosty winter activities to celebrate the season.

North Pole Marathon
April 9, 2014—The North Pole

Adventurers have been trying to conquer the thin air and cold temperatures of the Arctic since the 19th century. If you want to test your luck, then the North Pole Marathon is your opportunity. Participants are required to land in Svalbard, Norway, by April 7, and then fly to the North Pole to attempt the punishing 42 kilometer route. Registration fees are just as extreme; about $15,000 will get you lodging and a tour by helicopter.