Harbin -- the “Ice City” in China’s northernmost Heilongjiang province -- is welcoming its annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival which falls on Jan 5, according to the organizers.

Originating from the Ice Lantern Show in 1985, the festival has evolved to become one of the world's four largest ice and snow festivals, along with the Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan, the Quebec Winter Carnival in Canada and Norway's Ski Festival.

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the ice and snow festival. A series of winter sports and entertainment activities will be held over the festival period, providing tourists and local residents with winter fun.

Information of the activities are as follows:

1.Mini Ice and Snow Marathon
Date: 10:30 am on Dec 20
Venue: the square in Qunli Music Park in Daoli district, Harbin

2.2020 Harbin Winter Triathlon World Cup
Date: Jan 4
Venue: Sun Island scenic area in Harbin

3.Zhanghong Cup Speed Skating Marathon Competition
Date: Jan 6
Venue: Qunli Sports Park in Daoli district
　　
4.Harbin Skiing Marathon
Date: Jan 7-9
Venue: Volga Manor in Harbin

5.Opening ceremony for the 2019-2020 Heilongjiang Ice and Snow Activity
Date: Jan 16
Venue: Flood Control Memorial Tower Square in Harbin
Competitions: snow football, snow volleyball, snow globe and ice dragon boat race
Entertainment activities: 
Ice slide, ice seesaw, ice curling, ice bowling, ice skating, snow rugby, skiing