Charity ice bucket challenge held in freezing Harbin

Most people find completing the ice bucket challenge difficult enough, but one brave group in Harbin opted to take it a step further –– doing it in -20 Celsius weather conditions, on Dec 26.

The unusual challenge was sponsored by Harbin Shangri-La Hotel and Songbei Shangri-La Hotel, as part of efforts to raise funds for Yongsheng Primary School and to increase public awareness of issues impacting education in rural areas.

A total of 55 people managed to complete the challenge, winning applause from people watching and raising money for the primary school.

The opening ceremony for the 2018 Ice Bucket Challenge takes place at Harbin Shangri-La Hotel on Dec 26. [Photo provided to China Daily]

People wait in line to join the 2018 Ice Bucket Challenge at Harbin Shangri-La Hotel, Dec 26. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Contestants tip freezing-cold water over themselves at the 2018 Ice Bucket Challenge. [Photo provided to China Daily]