The Vernon Winter Carnival is a time-honoured tradition, bringing the community together for two weeks of excitement, activities, and winter fun. Returning in February 2025, this event is set to celebrate its 65th anniversary with a nostalgic twist, taking everyone back to the 80s. From the lively parade to thrilling snow sports and creative competitions, the Vernon Winter Carnival transforms the town into a hub of winter entertainment. Here's a closer look at what makes this festival an unmissable part of the Okanagan's winter calendar.
A Tradition of Fun and Community Spirit
For over six decades, the Vernon Winter Carnival has been a staple event in Western Canada, drawing visitors and locals to partake in over 100 unique winter events. The entire community gets involved, from local businesses to families who have attended for generations. With its rich history dating back to the late 19th century, the Carnival embodies Vernon's connection to winter and showcases the resilience and creativity of the community.
The Carnival isn't just about enjoying winter—it's about creating memories. Whether it's the signature balloon glow lighting up the night sky, the competitive snow sculpture contest, or a polar bear plunge into Okanagan Lake, these events make every winter memorable. In 2025, the 80s theme will add even more nostalgia to the celebrations, offering a new twist to traditional favourites.
This year's theme invites everyone to relive the iconic decade with a lineup of nostalgic events. Here are some of the top ideas so far. Dance the night away at an 80's Dance Party or dress up as your favourite stars at an Icons & Celebrity Costume Party. For trivia buffs, join an 80's Trivia Night to test your knowledge of classic films, music, and pop culture. If you're feeling energetic, join an 80's Aerobics Workout Party for a blast of retro fitness fun. And for puzzle lovers, don't miss a Rubik's Cube Tournament—a chance to show off your speed and skill with the ultimate 80's brain teaser.
Signature Events for All Ages
The variety of events ensures there's something for everyone at the Vernon Winter Carnival, and the committee is always trying to add new events to the traditional ones. The parade, a long-time favourite, will once again draw thousands as themed floats and costumed performers wind through the streets of Vernon. Families gather to cheer, with this year's 80s-inspired floats promising plenty of fun and creativity.
For those who enjoy the thrill of competition, the snow sculpture contest is an event where teams compete to create intricate sculptures from blocks of snow, showcasing artistic talent and skill in working with the elements. Meanwhile, "snogolf" or kickball bring a quirky twist to the classic games—played in the snow and are an entertaining mix of fun and skill.
Looking for something a little less conventional? The annual K9 Costume Parade at the Family Fun Park with prizes for Cutest Canine, Most Creative Costume, and Waggiest Tail, is a fun-filled day for dogs and their owners. The polar bear swim is not to be missed and challenges the brave to take a chilly plunge into the lake, with hot drinks waiting onshore to warm them up.
Nighttime Delights and Culinary Experiences
The Carnival isn't just about daytime fun. In the evenings, the Balloon Glow is a crowd favourite, filling the sky with the glow of hot air balloons. It's a magical sight, and the perfect excuse to grab a hot chocolate from the nearby food trucks. Fireworks light up the sky to cap off the day's events, with shows taking place throughout the festival, ensuring that every night is full of excitement.
For those who appreciate food and drink, the Sip & Savour event showcases craft beers and ciders from local producers. Sample the best of the Okanagan's brewing scene while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The Chocolate Express offers another indulgence—an evening dedicated to all things chocolate, where you can savour delicious treats, wine pairings, and even take home a prize or two.
A Family-Focused Celebration
The Vernon Winter Carnival places a strong focus on family-friendly activities. The Family Fun Park is always a big hit, featuring ice slides, outdoor games, and entertainment for kids of all ages. With admission by donation, it's an accessible way to enjoy the Carnival's offerings. A Teen Night at the recreation centre is packed with games and activities, giving young people a fun evening to socialize and enjoy. A pancake breakfast and fireworks display makes sure that the younger crowd can enjoy the festivities too.
For the more active families, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at nearby SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre provide a great way to explore the region's natural beauty. The One Miler Trail Race is another excellent way to get the whole family moving, with categories for competitive runners and casual participants.
Carnival Traditions
The Vernon Winter Carnival has long been a cherished part of the community’s winter festivities, filled with traditions that unite everyone. Since 1961, the Carnival button has been an essential symbol of participation. Each year, a new design is created and sold, and wearing the button shows your Carnival spirit and keeps you safe from the playful Carnival Cops. For many Vernon residents, collecting these buttons has become a beloved tradition, with some having full collections from the festival's earliest days.
The Queen Silver Star program also started in 1961, has evolved from a beauty pageant into the Queen Silver Star Excellence Program, which focuses on leadership, skill development, and community involvement for young women. The program remains a highlight of the Carnival, with the Queen's coronation marking the festival's official start. Adding to the fun, the Carnival Cops, a quirky tradition since 1966, roam the festival, "arresting" those not showing enough Carnival spirit. Their antics and fundraising efforts like "Arrest the Best" add a layer of playful community involvement to the celebration.
Heading Back to the 80s in 2025
The theme for the 65th Vernon Winter Carnival brings everyone back to the 80s. Expect neon colours, big hair, and plenty of retro fun as the town celebrates the decade of synth music, Rubik's cubes, and aerobic dance parties. Whether it's 80s-themed trivia nights, costume parties, or an old-school dance-off, the Carnival will provide countless ways to embrace the theme.
The 2025 Vernon Winter Carnival promises to be a mix of old favourites and new experiences, with the 80s theme adding a fresh twist to the beloved event. There's no better way to embrace the winter season than at this iconic festival.
