Bird's Nest announces return of annual ice and snow festival

The National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, will open its 15th Happy Ice and Snow Season on Dec. 27, transforming the Olympic landmark into a vast winter playground, organizers announced Thursday alongside investment initiatives for 2026.

Huang Chen, general manager of Beijing Bird's Nest Culture and Creative Exchange Co., Ltd., introduces the 15th Happy Ice and Snow Season during a press conference at the National Stadium in Beijing, Dec. 18, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

This year's edition will run for more than 50 days through late February, covering both the New Year and Spring Festival holidays, according to Huang Chen, general manager of Beijing Bird's Nest Culture and Creative Exchange Co., Ltd.

Spanning more than 40,000 square meters, this year's season features attractions suitable for all ages. A highlight of the event is a collaboration with "Eggy Party," which brings the popular video game to life through real-world snow activities.

Visitors enjoy attractions during a previous Happy Ice and Snow Season at the National Stadium in Beijing. [File photo]

"We invite everyone to experience winter's unique charm at this 'dual-Olympic' landmark through diverse programs and thoughtful services," Huang said.

Since its debut in 2009, the Bird's Nest Happy Ice and Snow Season has welcomed over 2.53 million visitors across its 14 previous editions. It has since become a staple of Beijing's winter tourism and fitness culture, reinforcing the stadium's role in the city's seasonal landscape.

Organizers also outlined partnership and investment initiatives for 2026 during the announcement.

Attendees listen to a presentation on the stadium's investment and collaboration initiatives for 2026 during a press conference at the National Stadium in Beijing, Dec. 18, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Han Jincao, marketing director of the National Stadium Co., Ltd., announced that the venue is seeking global partners to collaborate on branding, digital technology integration and commercial operations.

"We are exploring new and market-driven models for operating Olympic venues," Han noted, inviting partners to support the integrated growth of the sports and culture sectors.

Han confirmed the stadium's 2026 calendar is already fully booked. Additionally, the venue is set to host the 2027 World Athletics Championships, and reservations for 2028 events are now open.