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The whole town gets into the spirit of this 10-day carnival that marks its 63rd year. It's all about celebrating the beauty and fun of winter, with activities spread throughout Vernon BC and nearby SilverStar Mountain Resort.
Vernon Winter Carnival
Western Canada's largest winter fest returns to Vernon Feb 3 - 12, 2023, for a celebration of all things winter!
Vernon Winter Carnival on Social Media
People of all ages get into the spirit of the season to creatively celebrate more than 20 unique winter events, some spanning over consecutive days.
Did we mention this is one of Canada's longest running winter festivals? Read up on the history of the Vernon Winter Carnival, which goes back all the way to 1893!
Among annual favourite events are the international snow sculpture competition, beer tasting events, The Chocolate Experience, a parade, snogolf, the Over the Hill Downhill ski race, the ever popular Downtown Gold Rush and winter trail race.
Vernon Winter Carnival Events
Here are just some of the events to check out. Events range from free outdoor activities to admission-by-donation fundraisers, to paid, ticketed dinners and concerts.
Tickets are on sale for select events now!
Nov 26: Carnival of Lights
Kickoff the holiday season with a festive light up and activities
Jan 27 - Feb 12: Downtown Gold Rush
Race to solve the clues and compete to win a real gold nugget and bragging rights!
Feb 3: Sip & Savour
A craft beer and cider tasting event
Feb 3/4, 10/11: Live Music at Lake City Casino
Apres with live music
SilverStar Mountain Resort is a host venue for Vernon Winter Carnival - and a great place to get out for some winter fun!
Feb 3, 4, 8, 9: The Chocolate Experience
A perennial favourite food sampling event
Feb 5: Winter Carnival 1 Mile
A Trail Race in the snow, ages 10 and up.
Feb 5: Snogolf Tournament
Another classic, for the golf-obsessed or just for the fun of it.
Feb 10: The Snowglobe Concert FEATURING THE REKLAWS
You don't have to be a country music fan to enjoy The Reklaws wild brand of live entertainment! Also featuring festival favourite DJ LunchBoxx and special guests (TBA).
Feb 10 - 12: VWC Family Fun Park
Admission by donation. Ice slides, "human foosball," entertainment and more. Be sure to catch the fireworks on Friday, Feb 10 at 6 pm!
Feb 11: Carnival Kickball
Put in a team and wage soccer war in the snow!
For the most current information, check the festival website.
The international snow sculpture competition at SilverStar features massive snow sculptures throughout the village.
When you go
Did you know...
The Vernon Winter Carnival is Canada's longest running winter festival, with roots stretching back all the way to 1893! Find out more in this story.
The carnival is your ticket to exploring Vernon's winter adventure, home to activities such as downhill skiing at Silverstar Mountain Resort and Nordic Skiing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Club.
For more winter activities and ways to winter in Vernon, including things to do, places to eat and stay, check out Tourism Vernon and start planning your winter holiday.
