Castanet

I lived in Vernon back in the 70 and 80. The one event that stood out for me was the annual Vernon Winter Carnival. It was a huge event and folks from all around the province used to come to Vernon. Events were always sold out. Vernon was party central. The pubs, bars, clubs were all just a rockin'. Good times for sure. I haven't gone back up to Vernon for this event in years, but I wonder if it still holds the magic it had back in the 70's and 80's? I don't see a lot of advertising for it down in the south end of the valley. I mean I see the odd story on Global TV, Castanet and a little editorial in the local paper but not a major push. Granted these are different times and with the advent of social media …. well. I did go to their website, but its not the same as having that pre event advertising getting everyone all excited. Just curious more than anything how Vernon's locals feel about this event and if it is still a major economic draw for the city and a community builder. Just an add on - Two fun events I vividly remember and I see one is back this year is broomball. I think CJIB Radio started that as a downtown event years ago and it became a real hit for players and spectators. Believe it was played during the noon hour downtown. The other event I will never forget was Snow Golf out at Spallmacheen Golf Club. I remember the year Norm Grohman the famed BCTV weatherman from Vancouver came out … it was a very very long day with lots and lots of fine liquid refreshments Lots of fun.

Other than the parade and hot air balloons, you don't really realize that it's going on anymore. Not what it used to be.

tough to see when the other events are indoors
Sounds like the balloons may be gone after this year, they are not getting support from the city.
Ice racing on Swan lake seems to have faded away as well as the mixed Sno-pitch

There are events that are a fast sellout each year with disappointed people missing out on tickets , but nobody picks up
on the idea that maybe the popular ones should be expanded or repeated.
That would be too much fun and entertainment for Vernon

Brushy Bill wrote:tough to see when the other events are indoors
Sounds like the balloons may be gone after this year, they are not getting support from the city.
Ice racing on Swan lake seems to have faded away as well as the mixed Sno-pitch

Same with broom ball. Unless I'm mistaken, it's been a few years since they closed off main street for that.

So I see from the attached story that organizers say this year's Winter Carnival was a success: https://www.castanet.net/edition/news-s ... htm#249038

I wonder how they are measuring success??

I think swan Lake doesn't freeze enough every year to race on but some events are sell out like suds and cider. You have to wait in line to get tickets.
The parade is totally lame. It used to be actual floats but now it's just trucks pulling work trailers with advertising on them.

Are there still a lot of free family events?