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Jan. 5, 2024International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China

Harbin, in Heilongjiang, the northernmost province of China, has a fascinating blend of architecture influenced by Russian and European styles. The city welcomes an icy twist to its fashion in January by opening its frosty doors to the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. This festival traces its origins to a humble garden party that featured ice lanterns in 1963 and has since evolved into an event where sculptors from around the world came together to create sculptures from the frozen waters of the Songhua River. This wonderland has towering castles, lanterns and intricate sculptures, all made of ice. In 2007, "Romantic Feelings," the world"s largest snow sculpture at 35 metres in height, was created here in the shape of an Olympic-themed artwork. During the evenings, multicoloured lights illuminate the translucent sculptures, adding another layer of charm. While exploring Harbin, you can try alpine skiing and, if you"re feeling brave, winter swimming in the Songhua River.Desktop Version

Jan. 4, 2024Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

An exemplary engineering accomplishment, the Golden Gate Bridge stands like a sentinel over the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Blanketed by the fog above the waters of the Golden Gate Strait, its towers, adorned with Art Deco elements, reach a height of 227 metres. This bridge was the result of combined efforts put in by engineer Joseph Strauss, architect Irving Marrow, and many others towards connecting San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was painted International Orange—the golden adjective refers to the sun-reflecting waters below—and was opened to the public in 1937. It wasn"t an easy vision to accomplish, especially as it was built during the Great Depression. The infrastructure investment paid off, as its construction employed thousands, contributing to both local employment and technological growth. The Golden Gate Bridge, a testament to human innovation, is a timeless masterpiece blending functionality with beauty.Desktop Version

Jan. 3, 2024J.R.R. Tolkien Day

It"s time to bust out the furry feet and pointed ears because today is J.R.R. Tolkien Day, which celebrates the literary legend who spun the fantastical tales of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." On this day, the Tolkien Society continues the tradition of toasting "the professor," like Frodo toasted his uncle Bilbo on his birthday. Tolkien"s roots run through Oxford, where he studied English literature, joined the Officer Training Corps during World War I and later became a professor of Old English language and literature at both Leeds and Oxford universities. Since 1979, Oxford"s Bodleian Library has been home to the Tolkien Archive, a precious collection of manuscripts, artwork and even a Middle-earth map with Tolkien"s handwritten notes. His legacy shows us the power of boundless storytelling, which encourages us to seize each day and make the most of the time that is given to us!Desktop Version

Jan. 2, 2024Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

This kaleidoscopic column is a series of prayer flags blown by the breeze in the Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. Prayer flags are most commonly hung along a line with five repeating colours, each representing an element in nature. The fluttering fabrics, inscribed with spiritual scripts, are usually raised during times of prosperity, such as on Bhutan"s Nyinlong, their traditional day of solstice, which takes place today. As the flags fade over time, adherents believe this signifies that the prayers have been heard and are being carried away by the wind, infusing the surrounding area with positivity and spirituality. As we see them wave, we can remember that in these dark winter months, there"s literally a brighter tomorrow.Desktop Version

Jan. 1, 2024Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2024! Did you stay up late last night to ring in the new year? If so, we wouldn"t blame you for sleeping in like this red fox in Abruzzo, Italy. Whenever you wake up, New Year"s Day is a great opportunity for reflection, planning and a sense of renewal for the year that stretches out before us. January 1 has been a big day since the Julian calendar was widely adopted in 45 BCE, and as its use spread across the world—eventually modified in 1582 by the Gregorian calendar to better calculate leap years. Whether you"re taking the day to watch a parade, attend a sports game, take a chilly dip or write resolutions, we hope it"s the beginning of a great year to come.Desktop Version

Dec. 31, 2023Happy New Years Eve!

It"s time for the final countdown! New Year"s Eve is celebrated tonight in many countries to see out the old year and hope for the promises of the new one. The traditions of different nations can be quite creative when it comes to saying farewell to the year. If you"re not in Canada watching the dazzling display of fireworks over Niagara Falls, you might smash crockery in Denmark, stuff your mouth with grapes for the countdown in Spain or hang onions outside your door in Greece. Celebrators in Thailand might visit a temple for good luck or watch the fireworks illuminating Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as the "holy city hill," based in the historical park of the same name. Wherever you celebrate, have a great one. See you next year!Desktop Version

Dec. 30, 2023Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, Fukushima, Japan

The Tadami Line is one of the most scenic railway lines in Japan. It winds through beautiful landscapes from Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture to Uonuma, Niigata Prefecture. The Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, pictured in today"s image, is a well-known landmark along this stretch. As the train glides across the bridge, travellers are treated to gorgeous vistas of the river below and the lush forests that blanket the area. After a snowfall, the icy blue water of the Tadami River cuts a bold streak through the forest, providing a welcome splash of colour in a blanket of white.Desktop Version

Dec. 29, 2023Oud-West neighbourhood, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Amsterdam! The capital of the Netherlands intrigues visitors from all over the world with its historic canals, versatile architecture and laidback atmosphere. The city"s history can be traced back to the 12th century when it was a fishing village on the banks of the Amstel River. Today, it boasts institutions like the Van Gogh Museum, the Eye Film Museum and the National Maritime Museum, which offer insights into the country"s history and arts legacy. Amsterdam"s canal ring area, built around the turn of the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to its fair share of restaurants, vintage shops and outdoor markets, especially in neighbourhoods like Oud-West, pictured in today"s image. Get ready to pedal because Amsterdam"s cycling culture is ubiquitous. With approximately 515 kilometres of bike lanes, it"s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.Desktop Version

Dec. 28, 2023Humpback whale, Disko Bay, Greenland

Who"s that in the spotlight? A humpback whale! These gentle giants are a success story of the Endangered Species Conservation Act. They are found in oceans globally and are renowned for their colossal size and distinctive features. Characterised by their long pectoral fins, which can reach up to one-third of their body length, humpbacks are adept swimmers and acrobats. The hump on their back, visible when they arch before a dive, contributes to their names. Known for their songs, these vocalizations are linked to mating and communication. These "gulp feeders" were once on the edge of extinction due to whaling and entanglement in fishing gear, but thanks to conservation efforts, their population is making a comeback, from around 5,000 in 1966 to an estimated 135,000 today.Desktop Version

Dec. 27, 2023Kirkjufell, Iceland

From glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes and black sand beaches, Iceland"s Snæfellsnes Peninsula has "GoT" it all. Standing here proudly is the 463-metre-high Kirkjufell. The lofty hill is often referred to as "Church Mountain" due to its distinctive shape resembling a church steeple. You might recognise it from the "Game of Thrones" series, where it featured in a scene set north of the colossal ice wall. Because of its pyramid shape, colours that shift with the seasons, and coastal location, this nunatak—a rock formation that protrudes through an ice sheet or glacier—is a frequent subject for photographers. If you"re lucky and the weather conditions align, Kirkjufell also offers a magnificent view of the northern lights.Desktop Version

Dec. 26, 2023Happy Boxing Day!

The holiday season isn"t quite over yet! December 26 marks Boxing Day—an opportunity to keep the festive spirit going or to enjoy a wintry walk through the local markets while sipping hot chocolate. The origin of the day is thought to come from the old British tradition of giving "boxes" filled with presents to people in need on the day after Christmas; modern Boxing Day is celebrated here in Canada and several other Commonwealth countries. Although this holiday is still associated with giving gifts, it also has other customs. Various events are held across Canada: ice hockey fans gather to cheer on their favourite teams and people gather to enjoy a festive meal and spend time with their families. Just like winter sunshine, the holiday season ends sooner than you think, so make the most of it!Desktop Version

Dec. 25, 2023Christmas Day

Somebody play "Jingle Bells" because Christmas is here! The season begins with the lighting of Christmas trees in town squares and homes, spreading a festive glow. Get your boots on and enjoy winter activities such as skating, skiing, and sledding to welcome the holiday atmosphere. Families gather for wholesome feasts on Christmas Day, often featuring a succulent turkey at the centre of the table. Festive decorations adorn homes, and cities host vibrant parades, events and set up local markets. Additionally, multicultural influences enrich the celebration, with various communities incorporating their customs. We hope that Santa Claus stopped by and left your presents under the tree. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!Desktop Version

Dec. 24, 2023Christmas Eve

There"s a certain magic in knowing that in towns around the world, shops are closing, streets are emptying and friends and families are gathering together to take comfort in the company of one another on Christmas Eve. Each of us have our own traditions, from filling stockings to hosting parties and playing festive music. Today"s snapshot portrays the annual celebration in the Town Hall Square of Tartu, Estonia, which is illuminated with gleaming lights and adorned with a display of Christmas trees. Tartu"s Christmas fair has a merry atmosphere, featuring sleigh rides, fire kettles and wooden animal carousels. All of this is accompanied by smoked meats, hot drinks and crispy gingerbread. Whether you"re watching a classic holiday movie or cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa as the clock strikes twelve, let the Christmas spirit reign on this peaceful night—and don"t forget the milk and cookies!Desktop Version

Dec. 23, 2023Festivus

Sometimes when stuck with family around the holidays, it might be tempting to give them an earful, like this chinstrap penguin is doing here on the South Sandwich Islands. If that sounds appealing, or if you want a break from mandatory seasonal joy, Festivus might be the holiday for you. The secular holiday was popularised in a "Seinfeld" episode in the show"s final season. The Costanza family has a collection of odd traditions, including putting up an aluminum Festivus pole—for its high weight-to-strength ratio—and airing their year-end personal grievances. Since the episode debuted, the holiday has taken on a life of its own both among fans and people looking for an alternative way to celebrate the season. Those who love Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa are welcome to them, and Festivus is for the rest of us.Desktop Version

Dec. 22, 2023Ljubljana, Slovenia

What a lovely city! The Slavic word "ljub" means "to love", and it serves as the prefix to Slovenia"s capital city, Ljubljana, and the Ljubljunica River that runs through it. This relatively small capital, with a population just under 300,000, was established on a trade route connecting the northern Adriatic Sea and the Danube region. To the south of the city lies the Ljubljana Marsh, the largest marsh in the country, covering 163 square kilometres. While modern buildings have cropped up on the city"s periphery, the core of the town preserves its historic structures, which have ancient Roman and mediaeval elements. Examples include the Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge, and the historic Old Town. Keep an eye out while you stroll around, you might encounter the city"s symbol, the Ljubljana Dragon.Desktop Version

Dec. 21, 2023December solstice

Here"s to a great night out or a cozy night in on the longest night of the year! On this day, the Northern Hemisphere, where Canada is located, is tilted farthest from the sun, resulting in the earliest sunset and the shortest day of the year. Called the December solstice, it marks the official beginning of winter and longer days ahead, giving a nice boost to the festive mood.Desktop Version

Dec. 20, 2023Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy

The Val Gardena valley in Northern Italy is renowned as a tourist destination for skiing, rock climbing, and woodcarving enthusiasts. Don"t let the model village appearance fool you, Val Gardena is a real, yet magical site in the Dolomites of South Tyrol that transforms into a place known as Christmas Valley during the festive season. Wooden huts open their doors to visitors, and a nostalgic cable car ride, each cabin adorned with twinkling fairy lights, travels above the Christmas Village. During the 18th century, the valley became famous for its production of statuettes and intricately carved wooden figurines, which were initially crafted to decorate Catholic churches. Amongst those creations, the peg wooden doll emerged as one of Val Gardena"s best-known products and is still being produced today.Desktop Version

Dec. 19, 2023Castle Square, Old Town, Warsaw, Poland

During the early days of December, the streets and squares of Warsaw, Poland, get dressed for the festive season. The city is adorned with Christmas decorations and comes alive in the evenings with thousands of sparkling lights. The display continues down the Royal Route, which extends from the Royal Castle at Castle Square to the end of the Old Town of the Polish capital, culminating at the nearly 9-metre-tall Christmas tree in Castle Square. Bundled patrons wander through Warsaw"s Christmas Market at the Square while browsing through seasonal souvenirs and savouring a warm beverage. The Royal Castle and surrounding Old Town have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1980.Desktop Version

Dec. 18, 2023Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Carved by time, wind, and water, Capitol Reef National Park showcases rust-hued cliffs and the natural beauty of the American West. President Franklin D. Roosevelt recognised the park"s splendour by designating it as a national monument in 1937, and later it was elevated to a national park in 1971. The park was named after a series of Navajo sandstone domes that were said to resemble the US Capitol Building, while the Waterpocket Fold was referred to as a reef since it obstructed smooth transportation. Known as "a wrinkle in the Earth"s crust," the Waterpocket Fold was carved by eons of erosion. The 161-kilometre-long monocline—a step-like fold—was presumably formed around 50 to 70 million years ago and is home to towering cliffs, narrow canyons, and colourful rock formations.Desktop Version

Dec. 17, 2023Bohemian waxwings

Among their feathered friends, Bohemian waxwings, clad in their elegant greyish-brown plumage, stand out as the wandering singers of the Northern Hemisphere. Their striking appearance comes from the contrast between their velvety grey body and the vibrant, waxy red tips gracing their secondary wing feathers. If alarmed, they freeze with their bill and neck pointing upwards. In winter, they feast upon cotoneaster, juniper, and rowan berries—the latter is their favourite. As spring casts its spell, these nomads engage in nesting. The female waxwings craft the nests, laying 2 to 6 bluish-grey eggs. The hatchlings are fed a diet of insects and fruits by both parents. One can easily spot these sociable birds, as they often gather in chirpy flocks in North America and Eurasia.Desktop Version

Dec. 16, 2023Guild houses of Grand-Place, Brussels, Belgium

Located in the heart of Belgium, Brussels is a vibrant capital city that combines rich history with a modern, cosmopolitan feel. Famous for its architecture and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand-Place of Brussels exudes an air of grandeur with its ornate guildhalls and centuries-old buildings.Desktop Version

Dec. 15, 2023SantaPark, Lapland, Finland

Amid the snowy landscapes of Lapland, Rovaniemi is a captivating winter wonderland that claims to be the official hometown of Santa Claus. This vibrant city in northern Finland is not only a gateway to the Arctic Circle but also a destination where reality and folklore blend seamlessly. Visitors can watch the beautiful Northern Lights, explore the Arctic wilderness and experience the magic of Christmas at SantaPark, pictured in today"s image. The park offers a wide range of activities, including elf workshops where skilled artisans craft timeless treasures and fun train rides through the park. Rovaniemi is also the capital city of Lapland and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Finland.Desktop Version

Dec. 14, 2023Boreal owl

In the world of birdwatching, the Christmas Bird Count is a fun highlight of the year. This annual bird census was first launched in 1900. The first bird count involved just 27 people spread over 25 locations in Canada and the US. Since then, the count has grown exponentially, with more than 2,360 locations across the Western Hemisphere participating.Desktop Version

Dec. 13, 2023Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway

Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people have lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional rorbu houses, built on poles over water, add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version

Dec. 12, 2023Poinsettia Day

During the holiday season, poinsettias are often seen adorning homes and festive displays, serving as symbols of goodwill and community spirit. Joel Robert Poinsett, a botanist and former minister to Mexico, introduced the plant to other countries to spread appreciation of its beauty. Poinsettias can be found in nature from Mexico to Guatemala, and the ancestors of the modern, commercially available version have been traced to the Mexican state of Guerrero. The crimson-leaved plant was used by the Aztecs as a red dye and as a fever-reducing medicine.Desktop Version

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