Mother and child on an ice slide at Vernon Winter Carnival

Image Credit: Vernon Winter Carnival

February is the time of year when the Vernon Winter Carnival takes over the town, bringing joy and fun for the whole family. This winter’s carnival schedule has even more events and more memories in the making. This year’s theme is CarnivalTV and event organizers are hard at work creating TV ideas and adding themes into their activities.

We caught up with Vicki Proulx, executive director of the non-profit society. With a huge staff of volunteers and community partners, Vicki senses this will be the best year ever.

“Everyone’s ready to get outside this winter. Out-of-town visitors are booking their carnival vacation already.”

The first Winter Carnival in Vernon was held on Long Lake (Kalamalka Lake) on February 23, 1893. It was stated this was the first affair of its kind to be held on ice in the province of British Columbia. The Festival really got going in 1961, and each year adds something new. It even took place in 2021 - during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with mainly virtual and drive-thru events.

Fire truck at the Vernon Winter Carnival parade

Image Credit: Vernon Winter Carnival

Snow Sculptures Make Vernon a Destination

With over 100 events spanning 10 days starting Feb. 3, there is something for everyone. Adults, kids, families, seniors… warm indoor events, and outside in the beautiful cold. The community atmosphere we all love is coming back.

This year’s festival is receiving support from Valley First Credit Union, local businesses, and all levels of government. With over 400 volunteers coordinating events, Vernon’s best winter activities are in the spotlight. Destination travellers come to ski, then extend their stay for the snow sculptures, live music, sporting events, dinners, dances, parades, and lots of local charm.

Winter Parade, Family Fun Park & Hot Air Balloon Glow

“We’re so excited to have so many beloved returning events in 2023,” Proulx said. “A fan-favourite, the hot air balloon glow will return to Polson Park to kick off the festival. This year features the 50th anniversary of the Best Decorated Contest, where all local businesses in Greater Vernon are encouraged to show their community spirit and decorate their storefronts.”

Balloons at Vernon Winter Carnival

Image Credit: Vernon Winter Carnival

Tickets Go on Sale Soon

Many events will sell-out quickly when tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 2. Check out the festival’s website at www.vernonwintercarnival.com for the full schedule. Tickets can be purchased online or you can also stop in to the downtown office behind the Vernon Rec Centre. Tickets are first-come-first-serve, and many events sell out, so take a look at the carnival schedule and make your plans.

Mark your calendar and get ready for Vernon Winter Carnival 2023.  This is a community-wide event with something for everyone to participate in. Join the fun this winter to create memorable shared experiences to last a lifetime.

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