With snow lingering on the ground in many parts of the U.S., and more turning up in the forecast, it’s very tempting to resign oneself to sitting the season out and just hibernating until spring arrives. Not happy with weather-limited social activities, a small group of students from northern Minneapolis has taken the initiative to bust the monotony and put some of that white stuff to good use.

By borrowing snow from their neighbors, they’ve built an igloo-like structure called a “quinzhee.” The main difference between an igloo and a quinzhee is that the latter is made by hollowing out a mound of snow, rather than built from snow that’s been packed into blocks.

The quinzhee built by Chris Aldrich and his five friends is large enough to hold 15 people, is tall enough to stand up in, and is outfitted with candle alcoves, a fireplace, and patio furniture. It took them a week and a half to build the shelter.

I wonder if any of them has thought about carrying an electric griddle and an extension cord out there so they can make French toast?

According to the Star Tribune, the quinzhee has already begun attracting kids after school, and has even served as the site of a block party. The friends’ vision of bringing people together despite the cold has already been fulfilled and will continue to be actualized until spring temperatures thaw the structure and render it no longer inhabitable.

Be sure to take a look at the paper’s slideshow of the quinzhee’s construction and interior. The thing is truly impressive. And if you’d like to learn how to make your own quinzhee, check out this video:

Tags: Minneapolis students build igloo, homemade igloo fits 15 people, students build house out of snow, Chris Aldrich, Minneapolis, Minnesota, snow cave fits 15 people, unusual structures, alternative uses for snow, men hold block party in snow fort, quinzhee

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