The Hair Freezing Contest in Yukon, Canada, is an annual event held at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, where participants freeze their hair into creative designs. Established in 2011, it has grown in popularity, awards, and even set a Guinness World Record. The contest is impacted by climate change and changing weather patterns, occurring only at low temperatures, showcasing artistic and whimsical expressions of winter culture.
In Yukon, Canada’s westernmost territory, the winters are marked by long, dark, and cold conditions, creating an environment ripe for unique winter activities. One such celebrated event is the Hair Freezing Contest, held annually at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs in Whitehorse. The contest, established in 2011, has grown significantly; it now awards $2,000 across six categories, having even set a Guinness World Record for the largest frozen hair competition in 2020 with 288 participants.
As its name implies, the Hair Freezing Contest invites participants to freeze their hair into complex and whimsical designs. The warmth of the hot springs, maintained at approximately 42°C (107°F), generates steam that interacts with the frigid air, causing frost to form around the hair. According to Andrew Umbrich, the general manager of Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, “Hair freezing occurs naturally in hot springs. The hair itself is not frozen solid, and no one has ever damaged their hair in this contest.” However, the contest can only proceed when air temperatures dip to -20°C (approximately -4°F) or lower, as this is necessary for satisfactory hair freezing.
The unpredictability of weather conditions and the effects of climate change pose challenges to scheduling the contest. A recent study indicated that Canada is warming at double the global average, with Yukon experiencing similarly pronounced effects. Umbrich notes, “Climate change is certainly affecting Yukon. It seems like our cold spells aren’t lasting as long as when I was younger.” This variability in the weather has led to the decision to hold the contest on any day with temperatures of -20°C or below, particularly in February when it is typically coldest.
With its humorous and artistic flair, participants showcase various hairstyles, ranging from elaborate to simple. Judging is based on creativity, effort, and the visual impact of the frozen creations. “Winners are usually very obvious,” Umbrich explains. “They’ll have put a lot of effort into making something unique, photogenic, and gravity-defying.” This contest has evolved into a spectacular display of creativity, attracting both participants and spectators alike, celebrating the joyful spirit of winter.
Although the contest scheduled for the 2023/24 season was canceled due to unseasonably warm weather, there remains optimism for the upcoming 2024/25 season. To stay informed about the next Hair Freezing Contest, individuals can follow the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs on various social media platforms and visit their official website.
The Hair Freezing Contest is a remarkable event that takes place annually in Yukon, Canada, highlighting the unique winter culture of the region. The contest thrives due to the natural properties of hot springs and the extreme cold of Yukon winters. It has evolved from a modest gathering to a celebrated competition that attracts numerous participants, underscoring climate variability and its impact on traditional winter activities. The contest not only showcases inventive hair sculptures but also serves as a community celebration of winter’s whimsical side.
In summary, the Hair Freezing Contest at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs not only highlights the creativity and humor of its participants but also reflects broader environmental issues such as climate change. Despite challenges posed by unpredictable weather, the contest has garnered popularity and continues to inspire fresh artistic expressions each year. As the event adapts to changing conditions, it remains a cherished winter tradition in Yukon, celebrating the joy of the season while promoting awareness of ecological changes.
Original Source: mymodernmet.com
