How to Enjoy the Xinjiang Hot Snow Festival: Activities and Itinerary in Altay for 12

The Xinjiang Hot Snow Festival is a highlight of the ski season, primarily held in Altay starting in December. The event features backcountry skiing competitions, gear markets, snow resort experiences, and industry networking. Dates and activities vary annually—check official announcements before you go.

Highlights

The backcountry competition is the highlight, where athletes race on natural terrain, offering a thrilling experience for spectators. The accompanying gear market lets visitors try on and test equipment, featuring a concentrated selection of brands and styles. The ski resort also hosts night events, live music performances, and cultural exhibitions.

Not every day is lively; events and shows are concentrated on a few days. Aligning your schedule with the event calendar is more effective than showing up and hoping for the best.

Transportation & Accommodation

During the event, flights and hotels in Altay are in high demand. We recommend booking 1–2 months in advance for peace of mind. City hotels offer convenient dining and easy access to ski resorts, while accommodations in Hemu are ideal for combining skiing with a snow village experience.

Airport-to-city and city-to-resort transfers are detailed inHow do I get to Altay for skiing?; See resort selectionHow to Choose from Altay's Four Major Ski Resorts。

How to schedule a few days

3-day itinerary: Day 1 - Arrive, explore the market, and acclimate to the temperature; Day 2 - Full day of skiing or spectating; Day 3 - Visit Heimu for a snow village tour, with an evening return. For 5+ days, add a stop in Keketuohai and switch to a different ski resort.

The ski resort is crowded during the event with long lift lines. Plan to do most of your skiing in the morning and save the afternoon for activities and the market.

Watch & Shoot

Backcountry freeride events take place in natural terrain. Spectator areas are designated by organizers—stay behind the safety line. A telephoto lens is better than a wide-angle for capturing riders. Keep extra batteries ready in cold conditions.

Always obtain permission before photographing people. Use of event footage is subject to the organizer's rules. Mobile batteries drain faster in cold temperatures; store them in an inner pocket to keep warm.

Weather and Alternatives

Temperatures in Altay are low in December, and snow or strong winds may disrupt flights and activities. Keep one flexible day in your itinerary to reschedule canceled plans for the ski resort or city museums.

Activity details are subject to announcements from the cultural and tourism authorities and organizers. This article serves as a reference for itinerary planning only. See below for overall winter activities.How to make the most of Altay's ski season。

Accommodation and meal arrangements during the event

During the event, popular restaurants in Altay City have long lines. Consider dining at off-peak hours or choosing local eateries in residential areas—they offer great food and faster service. Hotel rates are higher during this period; booking early can help you save money.

Accommodations in the Hemu area may also be scarce during peak seasons. If you plan to stay in Snow Village, book as early as possible. When reserving, confirm whether airport/shuttle pickup is included. Getting a ride back from the ski resort at night can be difficult; having shuttle service makes your trip much more convenient.

Crowds thin out quickly after the event. If you're not in a rush, arriving a couple of days later means easier lodging and slopes—and conditions are often just as good.

Shows & Nightlife

Nighttime activities are usually livelier than daytime, with lights, music, and markets all in one place. Since performances are held outdoors, bring warm shoes and heating pads if you plan to stand for long periods.

Night activities end late; arrange return transport in advance. The shuttle from the ski resort to downtown will have a modified final departure time—confirm before entering.

When taking photos, please avoid blocking the aisle. Front-stage seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Battery life may decrease rapidly in low temperatures; please store your phone in an inner pocket between shots.

Beyond the Hot Snow Festival, the skiing season in Altay continues. After the event, ski resorts return to their regular pace; snow quality may not deteriorate, but prices drop significantly. Scheduling your trip before or after the festival lets you enjoy the atmosphere while avoiding the peak crowds. Race schedules, venue details, and entry rules change annually—always check the organizer's latest announcements before planning your trip instead of relying on past dates.

Related reading

• How to visit the Xinjiang Winter Sports Expo
• How to make the most of Altay's ski season
• Altay Travel Routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket for the Snow Festival?

Access to ski resort activities typically requires a ski pass or event ticket. The market and some performances are free. Please refer to the official announcement for the current year's specific rules.

Is it worth visiting without skiing?

Worth it. You can join the market, performances, and snow village tours. Two days are enough—you don't need to stay at the ski resort the whole time.

Editor's Note: Travel plans for Altay are highly seasonal. This article has been verified by Xinjiang China International Travel Service (Xinjiang CITIC) based on current conditions. For confirmation of ski resort options, lesson schedules, and equipment arrangements, please contact our local travel consultant or explore more Xinjiang travel guides on this site.