The Murmansk Region has a strong partnership with Harbin and has been implementing joint projects for many years. This year, residents of the Arctic region had the opportunity to participate in a cultural event on the partner"s side.
September 2026 will mark the 10th anniversary of the signing of the sister city agreement between Murmansk and Harbin. As a reminder, Murmansk participated in the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival in 2020, the Sister Cities Forum of Friendly Cooperation in 2022, and last year in the Harbin International Trade and Economic Fair and the Russia-China Expo. As part of the entertainment program at the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival on Vorovskogo Street, a snow and ice bar was installed for the first time in 2025. A relief map of the Northern Sea Route, made of snow, occupied a prominent place within the ice structure. Additionally, the composition was complemented by scenes painted on relief depicting the early exploration of the Northern Sea Route, modern explorers of the North, polar bears, and Arctic ice.
As a reminder, the International Arctic Forum "Arctic: Territory of Dialogue" was held in March 2025 under the motto "Living in the North!", bringing together over 1,300 participants from 21 countries.
Winter in Harbin, China, traditionally becomes a true celebration of winter art, thanks to unique events that bring together artists from around the world. In January 2026, two major events, both hallmarks of the renowned Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, will take place: the 37th International Ice Sculpture Competition and the 28th International Snow Sculpture Competition.
Organizers note that this is a chance for artists to realize their creative visions, demonstrating to the world their ability to create stunning works of natural ice and pure snow, showcasing their craftsmanship, and dazzling audiences with fresh ideas and the perfection of their technique.
The competition winners will receive prestigious prizes:
– 1st place – 20,000 yuan;
– 2nd place (three teams) – 15,000 yuan;
– 3rd place (five teams) – 10,000 yuan.
In addition to the work itself, the festival will delight guests with a rich program, including exhibitions, concerts, excursions, and an introduction to Harbin culture. Each guest is guaranteed comfortable accommodation and travel reimbursement.
Applications are welcome until October 20, 2025, to two addresses: shewai2025@163.com and info@gorod51.com (it is important to duplicate materials to both). In addition, the organizers ask that preliminary sketches and a brief description of the sculpture, as well as team member CVs, be submitted by November 10, 2025. The organizing committee will conduct a thorough review to select outstanding teams. Selected teams will be notified of their results by email.
All required documents, including the application form, can be found at this link: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/e-ff5WGDUcyjuQ
/ Ministry of Urban Development and Improvement of the Murmansk Region /
