1. January
China: Harbin International Ice & Snow Sculpture Festival
Let your inner child run wild at the ultimate winter wonderland. The world’s largest annual ice festival, which has been running since 1963, returns with awe-inspiring snow sculptures, ice lanterns, illuminated ice buildings and a myriad of entertainment.
Skiing, fishing and even winter swimming, across three theme parks and various venues around the ice town of Harbin, China.
From January 5 until February 25. Find out more at harbinice.com
See also: 7 Luxury Ski Chalets In Europe To Elevate Your Next Ski Vacation
Switzerland: Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie Genève
The curtain rises on the first big horological extravaganza of the year in Geneva, Switzerland. The 28th edition of the watch industry fair, commonly known as SIHH, sees six prestigious new arrivals including Hermès, Armin Strom and DeWitt. If you didn’t score a coveted invite, the industry event opens its doors to the public on the 19th.
From January 15-19. Find out more at sihh.org
Switzerland: Snow Polo World Cup
Over the last week of January, the alpine resort town of St Moritz puts on a magnificent snow polo spectacle as top-class riders, including two women captaining a team for the first time, go head to head for the Cartier Trophy.
Expect to see gallant horses charging full-force across a frozen lake against the stunning backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful Engadin Valley.
From January 26-28. Find out more at snowpolo-stmoritz.com