In the first weekend of the 64th annual Vernon Winter Carnival (VWC), there was no shortage of events for attendees of all ages.
The Desert Moon Dancers were one of a dozen performances at the Schubert Centre's Celebration of Talent for the 65th annual Vernon Winter Carnival #yourvernon pic.twitter.com/CSyL22jzVy
— Vernon Morning Star (@VernonNews) February 5, 2024
The 10-day showcase of winter fun in the city kicked off on Friday with the balloon glow, while Saturday was the parade.
Sunday had events dotted throughout the downtown core and SilverStar Resort, which included the ice sculpture competition.
Originally intended to be a snow sculpture event, it was changed due to warm weather and a lack of snow. Despite the change, there were five sculptures crafted, with the People’s Choice winner being the snowboarder.
“The sculptures were so beautiful,” said Kris Fuller, the executive director of the Carnival. “We had some light snow outside but everyone was able to hang out in the village and enjoy the market. There were tons of smiles!”
Additionally, the Schubert Centre was awash with performers in the afternoon at the VWC’s Celebration of Talent.
“This has been an ongoing event at the Winter Carnival for a very long time,” said director Tina Kealey. “It was great to host this at the Schubert Centre as it was easily accessible for everyone, and the seniors to attend.”
Free hot chocolate, coffee and water was available while more than a dozen local performers dazzled the stage, ranging from belly dancers, guitarists, singers, a flutist and poetry reading.
There is still plenty of events for the final week of VWC, including the family fun park on Friday, Feb. 9.
“We will have fireworks at the Kal Tire Place parking lot on Friday night, so we are really looking forward to that,” added Fuller.
Fuller will also be dropping the puck at the PeeWee Hockey Tournament on Friday, where eight of the best 12 and under teams from across Western Canada battle one another at Kal Tire Place.
For more information, including a full schedule of events, visit vernonwintercarnival.com.
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