EuroWire, SAINT PETERSBURG: The “Kronshled” Ice Sculpture Festival opened this week on Hare Island in St Petersburg, transforming the grounds of the Peter and Paul Fortress into a large-scale open-air exhibition of illuminated ice art. The event, now a staple of the city’s winter calendar, showcases intricate sculptures inspired by folklore, history, and cultural traditions from across Russia and neighboring countries. The festival features 14 major ice compositions created by 21 sculptors under the theme “Fairy-tale and Hospitable St Petersburg.” Each sculpture reflects national legends and local myths, capturing symbolic stories associated with Russian heritage and the broader cultural ties of the region. Organizers said the theme was designed to celebrate traditional storytelling and the artistic diversity of participating nations.
According to Project Director Nikolai Labutin, the 2025 edition of the festival aims to emphasize the artistic skill involved in ice sculpture as well as the shared creative spirit of the region. The event brings together professional sculptors from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus, each contributing unique interpretations of the theme through detailed, large-scale works carved entirely from ice harvested from local sources. Visitors to the exhibition encounter figures from Slavic mythology, fairy-tale heroes, and architectural designs reflecting the cultural identity of St Petersburg. The installations are illuminated with colored lighting, enhancing the appearance of the transparent ice structures and producing a visual effect that changes with the time of day and temperature. The lighting design also highlights the craftsmanship of the sculptors, allowing the details of carving and form to remain visible after nightfall.
The Peter and Paul Fortress, located on Hare Island, provides the historic setting for the festival. The site, established in the early 18th century by Peter the Great, has long served as a focal point for cultural and seasonal events in St Petersburg. Its open courtyards and proximity to the Neva River create natural conditions for the preservation of the ice installations during the winter season, offering a suitable venue for the large-scale display. Organizers said the festival has steadily gained recognition as one of the most visually distinctive winter events in the city. Attendance figures have grown annually as residents and tourists visit to view the sculptures and experience the seasonal atmosphere. The combination of art, history, and craftsmanship continues to position the Kronshled Festival as a key cultural attraction during the winter holiday period.
Sculptors from Russia and beyond shape St Petersburg’s icy landscape
In addition to showcasing artistic works, the event provides an opportunity for collaboration among ice sculptors from different regions. The artists, many of whom have participated in international competitions, use both traditional carving methods and specialized tools to achieve fine detailing. Ice blocks used in the festival are sourced and prepared weeks in advance to ensure clarity and structural stability. Each sculpture can weigh several tons, requiring precise engineering to maintain balance and durability in outdoor conditions. Safety measures and preservation techniques are also part of the event’s logistical planning. Temperature monitoring and protective coverings help sustain the sculptures throughout the festival’s duration. The installations remain open to the public for viewing until January 14, 2026, with staff maintaining accessibility and safety for visitors amid fluctuating weather conditions.
Kronshled strengthens St Petersburg’s global cultural profile
The Kronshled Ice Sculpture Festival underscores St Petersburg’s role as a leading center of cultural tourism in northern Europe. It complements the city’s wider range of winter attractions, including traditional Christmas markets, seasonal light installations, and New Year’s celebrations. By drawing artists from multiple countries and highlighting cultural themes, the festival contributes to the promotion of regional artistry and heritage on an international platform. The event’s organizers noted that the combination of craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and historic location continues to attract significant local and international attention. For visitors, the festival offers a rare opportunity to view ice as both a medium of fine art and a reflection of enduring cultural identity. The Kronshled Ice Sculpture Festival on Hare Island will remain open daily until mid-January, inviting residents and tourists to experience one of St Petersburg’s most prominent winter traditions.