Braving the cold. Contestants take part in the annual Polar Bear Swim at Vernon Winter Carnival.

Image Credit: Wayne Emde Photography

VERNON - Proof that good things are made to last, the Vernon Winter Carnival kicks off this Friday celebrating its 59th year and bringing a plethora of events to the city.

The pirate-themed carnival will see 98 different events will take place over the 10-day long festival, giving everyone a chance to take part.

Vernon Winter Carnival executive director Vicki Proulx said the festival was created in 1961 to "foster community spirit and bring the community together" and that still holds true 59 years later.

"We have events for everyone, we're all-inclusive, no matter what your budget, no matter what your age, there's something for you to do," said Proulx.

This year's highlights include a snow sculpture competition held at Silver Star Mountain Resort, Feb. 1 to Feb. 3. The competition sees five teams battle it out to sculpt their finest work of art.

Providing the weather cooperates, the skies will be filled with hot air balloons on Feb.1 for the Balloon Fiesta.

Back by popular demand is the broomball competition, held at the Village Green Hotel Complex, Feb.5, and there's still room for teams to sign up.

Those who don't mind the cold can brave the freezing waters and take part in this year's Polar Bear Swim, Feb 10.

Kids can burn off some stored up winter energy at Winter Day in The Park on Feb. 9, which will feature a pirate bouncy castle, a climbing wall and dozens of other family-friendly attractions.

A Night in Ukraine will serve people craving perogies and cabbage rolls, and for those seeking live music can catch Cod Gone Wild perform A Pirate's Irish Pub Night at the Vernon Recreation Centre Feb. 2.

The Winter Carnival Parade will be back starting at noon on Feb. 2 and the crowning of the Queen and Princess Silver Star takes place Jan. 31.

Proulx said after 59 years winter carnival remains as strong as ever, put on by roughly 100 volunteers.

"It's fun, people like to share a common interest and they like to be able to come together and that's exactly what carnival does for at least 10 days in February."

For a full list of events go here.

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