Move over New Orleans, Mardi Gras is coming to Vernon!
The biggest party of the year is about to fill the city as Vernon Winter Carnival, presented by Fix Auto, gets underway Feb. 5-14.
The Mardi Gras-themed Carnival has sparked a parade of colourful entries, events and excitement over the 10 days.
“The Mardi Gras theme is being well received by everyone,” said Deb White, event chairperson, while donning feathers, beads, a mask and jesters hat. “The main colours of Mardi Gras are green, purple and gold.”
With 80 events to take in, many of which are free, there is something for everyone.
But White warns, “the events are selling quickly.”
Tickets for everything from the jopo House luncheon and Snowflake Ball to the Medevale Carnavale, Irish Pub Night and UnWined Downtown can be purchased online at www.vernonwintercarnival.com or at the office 250-545-2236.
There are 10 new events added to the roster this year, including Burlesque on Bourbon Street, Polar Bear Swim and Pianographicus.
Meanwhile some of the long-standing traditions of Carnival continue.
“Proclamation kicks off Winter Carnival on Feb. 4 with the crowning of Queen Silver Star LVI and the Parade on the 6th,” said White. “Silver Star Rotary is going to have a pre-parade pancake breakfast in the parking lot of White House Mortgage from 9 a.m. to noon.”
Those wanting to show off their Mardi Gras spirit have a little more time to get parade entries in – the deadline has been extended to Jan. 22.
Businesses wanting to get in the Carnival spirit are urged to take part in the Best Decorated Premises Contest. The deadline is Jan. 29.
Some other free events taking place include Bandarama, after the parade at the Vernon Recreation Complex. Family Day will be celebrated in Polson Park Feb. 8 with games, a bonfire, broomball, lunch, bouncy snow globe and more.
For a list of all events, dates and times visit the vernonwintercarnival.com or pick up a Carnival brochure at the office or many participating businesses around town.