The 2013 Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships, now in its 23^rd year, offers entertainment for visitors of all ages from mid-January to early February. Marvel at the process of carving 10-15 ft. sculptures from compact snow and chat with the artists as they work, all while hanging out at Breckenridge’s picturesque Riverwalk Center (150 W. Adams Ave.).

Initial block construction runs from January 15 to the 18^th with volunteers welcome (to schedule, call or e-mail Heather Bridges at 970-547-3100 or heatherb@townofbreckenridge.com). Sculpting begins at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 22 and runs until 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 26, at which point official judging begins. Winners are revealed at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 27, but the outdoor gallery can be enjoyed anytime until the following Sunday, February 3.

Artists stay up late performing detail work the night before the work concludes Saturday morning, so, with fires burning throughout the park for warmth, we recommend this as the best time to visit. Be sure to bundle up.

Photo by david_shankbone