The Chinese province of Harbin kicked off its testing period for its popular Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival on Christmas Day.

The event, which officially launches on Jan 5, 2012, chiefly features sculptures made out of ice. The festival also includes skiing, winter swimming and an exhibition of ice lanterns as events.

Tourists visit ice sculptures during the lights testing period of the 13th Harbin Ice and Snow World in Harbin, Heilongjiang province Dec 25, 2011. The Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival will be officially launched on January 5, 2012. -- PHOTO: REUTERS