Viking Horns, Frying Pans, Loads of Snow and Snow Sculpture

Each year, snow-worshipers dust off their Viking horns and line the streets of Breckenridge, Colorado, to pay homage to Ullr, the mythical Norse god of snow. Join the 48th annual celebrations from January 9 to 15, 2011 to give thanks for Breckenridge’s bountiful early-season snowfall, over 130 inches in the first four weeks of the season.

This annual week-long celebration of Ullr (pronounced Ooh-ler), brings to Breckenridge a legendary Main Street parade along with live entertainment, the Ullr Dating Game, Ullympics and a family ice skating party.

On the heels of the Ullr Fest comes the 21st International Snow Sculpture Championships from January 25 to 30. Sixteen teams from around the globe have been invited to compete from nine countries
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New is an eco-friendly, LED lighting system that will add to the artistry with color washes during viewing week, January 30 through February 6, weather permitting.

At the event, attended annually by more than 30,000 people, four-person teams are assigned 12-foot-tall, 20-ton blocks of machine-made Colorado snow. Artists achieve finished pieces after a total of 65 intense hours of work without the use of power tools, internal support structures or colorants.

Sculpting begins with a shotgun start and finishes with teams working through the night to hand-carve anything from enormous pieces of whimsy to powerful social commentary. Judging commences with awards presented to first, second and third places, along with designations of People’s Choice, Kids’ Choice and Artists’ Choice.

For more information about top events in Colorado take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Colorado.

For more information on the 2011 Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships and lodging packages in Breckenridge visit www.gobreck.com

Winter Means Major Events in Breckenridge, Colorado

Winter brings unique events to the Victorian town of Breckenridge, which bustles with an independent dining scene, a thriving arts district and plenty of snow. A season-long lineup features signature events and adventures of all speeds.

The Lighting of Breckenridge on December 4 transforms the town into a wintry village complete with two weekends of a Holiday Market. Think roasted chestnuts, hot spiced cider, mulled wine, visits with Santa and unique shopping opportunities. Check out the 3rd annual Winter Dew Tour, December 16 to 19, and New Year's celebrations that include fireworks, a concert and a torchlight parade down the slopes of Breckenridge mountain.

Bring the Viking Horns for Ullr Fest, January 9 to 15. This annual week-long celebration of Ullr (pronounced Ooh-ler), the mythical Norse god of snow, brings to Breckenridge a legendary Main Street parade along with live entertainment, the Ullr Dating Game, Ullympics and a family ice skating party.

Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships – the week of January 25 to 30, teams from around the globe descend on Breckenridge to hand carve 20-ton blocks of snow into works of art.

Not enticed by white stuff? Explore Breckenridge's diverse, independent restaurant scene. Or, try a workshop in the Arts District, shop the boutiques, indulge in spa treatments and re-live history with museum tours.

In addition to ski and ride lessons, winter family activities abound. Explore miles of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, experience a dogsled tour in Breckenridge's backcountry or hear the sleigh bells jingle on a starlit dinner sleigh ride.

For more information about top events in Colorado take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Colorado.

For more information visit Breckenridge at www.gobreck.com