Trip ideas
Winter Magic in Vernon: A Complete Guide to the Annual Vernon Winter Carnival
Embark on a 10 day journey of winter wonder at the 65th Annual Vernon Winter Carnival, running from February 7th to 16th. Whether you're flying solo or joining in with friends and family, our guide is essential for exploring a blend of classic favourites and thrilling new additions. With daily events and activities, each day promises a unique adventure. Don't miss out on these must-experience moments – make sure they're on your winter carnival bucket list!
DAY 1: BALLOON GLOW (FEB 7)
Kick off the Vernon Winter Carnival in style with the Hot Air Balloon Glow at Kal Tire Place North Parking Lot, a must-see event that promises an evening of wonder and delight.
The event kicks off at 4pm and goes till 8pm! This breathtaking sight (dependent on weather and fuel) offers a unique spectacle for approximately 45 minutes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in the winter darkness.
DAY 1: SNOW SCULPTURE COMPETITION (FEB 7 - 9)
Head on up to Silver Star Mountain as the BC Snow Sculpture Competition kicks off at 10am Friday, February 7th (through to Sunday, February 9th) and watch firsthand as artists from across BC craft masterpieces out of snow and ice!
DAY 2: 64TH ANNUAL PARADE (FEB 8)
Experience the excitement of the beloved 64th Annual Vernon Winter Carnival Parade on Saturday, February 8, from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. The Parade features the "Back to the 80s" theme this year and will be winding through the heart of Vernon. Bring your friends and family, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and vote for your favorite entry!
DAY 2: DISCO LASER LIGHT BOOGIE
Head to Brewer's Pond at Silver Star on Saturday evening (February 8) for dance party with live DJ and awesome laser light show. Make sure to wear your retro outfits, ice skates and boogie to the tunes. Tube Town Café will be open to purchase food and drinks.
DAY 2: SIP SAVOUR (FEB 8)
Join in the fun at one of the Okanagan's most popular showcase of craft beer, cider and wine is back again. DJ Lunchboxx will bring the beats and you can take glam shots in the 80s styled photobooth. There will be 25+ vendors offering tastings in exchange for tokens.
DAY 3: SOVEREIGN LAKE'S TOUR DE SOUP (FEB 9)
A new event for 2025, put your skate or classic skis on (or rent from Sovereign Lake) and head out on the trails Sunday afternoon to sample some delicious soup along the way. Don't forget to wear your retro ski gear and bring your own cup. $5 tickets to participate are available at the Lodge.
DAY 5: TOTAL FUN BED RACES (FEB 11)
Get ready for high-speed hilarity at the Total Fun Bed Races on February 11th, from 12-2pm at Kal Tire Place North Parking Lot. This unique and wildly entertaining event invites teams to engineer their own racing machines – starting from a bed! It's a perfect blend of creativity, teamwork, and friendly competition.
DAY 6: A WINTER'S NIGHT PAINTING PARTY (FEB 12)
Explore your creative side at Caetani Centre for a paint party. Create a Sveva Caetani-inspiured painting from her heralded Recapitulation Series - that was mostly painted in the 80s. Enjoy Italian wine, cheese and socializing while painting your own art to take home.
DAY 7: FIGURE SKATING ICE SHOW & COCA COLA CLASSIC PEEWEE HOCKEY TOURNAMENT (FEB 13-16)
Don't miss two exciting sports events in Vernon! Cheer on the Vernon Figure Skating Club at the Back to the 80s on Ice Figure Skating Show at Kal Tire Arena on February 15 from 1 - 3pm. Then, get ready for the 52nd Annual Coca-Cola Classic Peewee Hockey Tournament from February 13-16, at Kal Tire Place. Witness the future stars of hockey in one of Western Canada's premier tournaments.
Get your tickets for the Figure Skating Ice Show
Get your tickets for the Coca Cola Classic PeeWee Hockey Tournament
DAY 9: FAMILY FUN PARK FIREWORKS NIGHT (FEB 15)
Get ready for an exhilarating day at the Family Fun Park on Saturday, February 15, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at BX Elementary School. Step through a giant igloo into a world of winter wonder, complete with hot chocolate, face painting, and an array of exciting games. As the sun sets, prepare to be mesmerized by a spectacular Fire Juggling show followed by dazzling fireworks! Entrance to the Family Fun Park is by donation.
DAY 9: POLAR BEAR SWIM (FEB 15)
Brave the chilly waters and experience the ultimate thrill at the Polar Bear Swim on Saturday, February 15th. Registration kicks off at 12pm on the beach, with the big dip at 1pm. This event is not just about the adrenaline rush – it's for a great cause too! All proceeds go to support the children at Mission Hill Elementary. Before or after your plunge, don't forget to explore the Polar Bear Market, Silent Auction, and grab a bite at the cash concession at Paddlewheel Hall!
As we wrap up our guide to the 65th Annual Vernon Winter Carnival, remember that these highlighted events are just the tip of the iceberg! We encourage you to visit the official Vernon Winter Carnival website for a full and detailed list of the schedule. Whether you're seeking family fun, cultural experiences, or thrilling sports, the Carnival has something for everyone. Check out the full lineup of events and plan your Carnival journey today!
