WORLD SNOW DAY
On the third Sunday in January, World Snow Day promotes winter sports for young people. The two sports in particular that are highlighted include recreational skiing and snowboarding. It’s also a day for young people to learn about winter sports safety as well as the importance of caring for the environment.
Engaging in outdoor recreational sports is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. This is true no matter what season it is, including winter. Although it can be cold, it’s fun and invigorating to play in the snow. Skiing and snowboarding are just two examples that anyone, including children, can participate. Besides being fun, snow sports offer some great health benefits. Some of these benefits include:
- Improves cardiovascular health.
- Strengthens muscles.
- Improves balance.
- Reduces mental stress.
- Burns calories and increases metabolism.
- Boosts immune system.
Participating in outdoor winter sports also forces children off their screens! Besides all of that, children can gain an appreciation for the environment. Spending time in the snow can be awe-inspiring. A love of snow might even influence children to protect the environment so that snow will always be a reality.
Children can also learn how to stay safe while participating in winter sports. This includes knowing how to dress properly for cold temperatures, learning how to fall, wearing the appropriate protective gear, and warming up with light exercises and stretches in order to avoid injury.
HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldSnowDay
On this day, the International Ski Federation (FIS), along with other organizations, plan various snow-related sporting events. Some of these events include free skiing and snowboarding lessons, ski races for children, and snow and ice festivals. Many ski resorts around the world also offer free skiing and snowboarding for children. To participate:
- If you live in a cold climate, get outside and enjoy the snow!
- Take your child skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating.
- Organize an outdoor winter sporting event in your community.
- If you don’t want to ski or snowboard, build a snowman or have a snowball fight.
Share this day on social media with #WorldSnowDay.
WORLD SNOW DAY HISTORY
The International Ski Federation (FIS) came up with the idea for this day in November 2007. At the time, the campaign was called “Bring Children to the Snow.” Five years later in 2012, the FIS launched the first annual World Snow Day. Other stakeholders that participate include the FIS National Ski Associations, International Ski Instructors Association, and various ski tourism organizations.
DATES:
16 January 2022
15 January 2023
21 January 2024
19 January 2025
18 January 2026
17 January 2027
16 January 2028
21 January 2029
20 January 2030
19 January 2031
18 January 2032