World Snow Festival – Snow and Ice Sculptures in Grindelwald

Each January, Grindelwald transforms into an open-air art gallery during the World Snow Festival. Massive blocks of snow become the canvas for sculptors from around the globe, who carve intricate works of art set against the backdrop of the Eiger.

Event Overview

Dates: 19 to 24 January 2026
Since 1983, the World Snow Festival has brought together international artists to compete in creating large snow sculptures. Each team starts with a 3-metre-high block of compacted snow and spends several days carving their design according to a set theme. For 2026, the theme is “Myths and Legends”, inspiring fantastical creatures, folklore heroes, and epic scenes.

What to Expect

Sculpting takes place in two locations — the village square (Eiger+ Nordwandplatz and Bärplatz) and up on Männlichen mountain. Visitors can watch the artists at work during the day and return in the evening to see the sculptures illuminated. Once completed, the artworks remain on display for as long as the weather permits, adding a magical touch to the winter atmosphere.

Insider Tips for Visitors

• Visit both sculpture locations for the full experience
• Watch the carving process early in the week, then return later to see the finished works
• Take the Männlichen cable car for mountain-top viewing and photography
• Evenings can be particularly scenic with the sculptures lit up in the village

Combine with Other Activities in the Jungfrau Region

Combine a visit to the Männlichen sculptures with skiing or winter hiking on the mountain. In the village, enjoy Grindelwald’s shops and cafés between sculpture viewings.

Practical Information

Dates: 19 to 24 January 2026
Locations: Grindelwald village centre and Männlichen mountain
Tickets: Free viewing; regular lift ticket required to access the Männlichen sculptures
Access: Village locations are within walking distance from Grindelwald train station; Männlichen is reachable by gondola from Grindelwald Terminal

How to Get There from Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn

From Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn, walk five minutes to Wengen railway station and take the Wengernalp Railway to Lauterbrunnen. Change to the Bernese Oberland Railway via Zweilütschinen to reach Grindelwald Terminal for the Männlichen gondola, or continue to Grindelwald station for the village displays. Travel time is about one hour each way.

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