The sculptors for Nallikari Snowfest 2026 have been selected. Nearly 30 applicants from over 15 countries applied.
The international snow sculpting competition Nallikari SnowFest will make a grand return in February 2026 – bigger than ever. Held in the seaside district of Nallikari, Oulu, the event has become one of the most significant cultural experiences of the northern winter season. In 2026, it will be part of the Oulu European Capital of Culture 2026 programme.
The event’s growing popularity is also reflected in the number of applications – nearly 30 teams from more than 15 countries applied to compete this year.
“Nallikari SnowFest has become a highly anticipated and respected event among snow sculptors. This is evident both in the number of applicants and in the quality of the design proposals. Among more than 30 applications, there were so many impressive sketches that the selection was truly challenging,” says Suvi Palo, Event Coordinator of Nallikari SnowFest.
Seven new teams and three returning champions
Seven new teams have been selected for next winter’s competition, representing countries such as the USA, Canada, and several regions of Southern and Central Europe. In addition, three returning champion teams from last year – from the Czech Republic, Estonia, and the USA – have been invited to join the event.
This year, the selection process placed special emphasis on the ability to interpret the competition theme, “By the Sea – Meren äärellä.” The theme highlights Nallikari’s stunning seaside location and invites artists to explore the relationship between humans and nature in the context of the northern winter landscape.
“The theme ‘By the Sea – Meren äärellä’ feels very natural to us, as the sea is at the heart of Nallikari and everything that happens here. We wanted the theme to be reflected both in the sculptures and in the atmosphere of the entire event. It has been inspiring to see how artists from around the world have interpreted the meaning of the sea from their own perspectives,” Palo continues.
SnowFest kicks off Nallikari’s winter event season
Nallikari SnowFest serves as the kickoff for Nallikari’s winter event season, which offers culture, music, and experiences throughout the late winter. The event will take place from 11–15 February and will culminate in the Korpirock Winter music festival, open to everyone.
Right after SnowFest, on 1 March, the Frozen People Festival will take over the frozen sea, combining electronic music, art, and the unique aesthetics of the wintry seashore. In
addition, Nallikari Winter Village will open its doors for winter weekends and the ski holiday week, offering family-friendly activities for all ages.
The winter program will also feature a weekly schedule of guided winter activities, with something happening every day – including new experiences such as ice swimming and tent sauna sessions, as well as reindeer farm visits.
“This winter in Nallikari will be lively and full of events and activities. We are expecting a vibrant travel season by the sea and thousands of event visitors. The new tourism products are a great addition to the region’s year-round development. Altogether, these events make Nallikari a unique cultural meeting place where northern nature and art go hand in hand,” says Katja Vuorio, Marketing Manager of Nallikari Seaside Oy.
More information:
📧 events@nallikari.fi
🌐 nallikarisnowfest.fi
