Vernon Winter Carnival 2026
- ExNews.net
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
The 66th annual Vernon Winter Carnival is just around the corner as the festival kicks off in less than three weeks!
Running from February 6 to 15, 2026, this year's theme is "Team Carnival – Canada Goes for Gold!".
The theme celebrates Canadian pride, teamwork, and winter energy, perfectly timed to align with the global spirit of the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.
Billed as Western Canada’s largest and North America’s second-largest Winter Carnival, the event features over 100 community-driven events packed into 10 fun-filled days.
From nostalgic parades and dazzling displays to family activities, contests, and après-style parties, there's something for everyone to embrace the snowy season.
Here are some of our top picks for must-see highlights:
VWC Balloon Glow - Kick off the festival in style with glowing hot air balloons lighting up the night.
When: February 6, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: Village Green Shopping Centre (4900 27th St., Vernon)
Admission by donation.
VWC Parade - The beloved main event, full of creative floats, community spirit, and Olympic-inspired flair under the "Team Carnival – Canada Goes for Gold!" theme.
When: February 7, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Where: Parade Route – South on 27th Street from 45th Avenue to 32nd Avenue
Total Fun Bed Races - High-energy bed-pushing races that always bring big laughs and friendly competition.
When: February 10, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Where: Village Green Shopping Centre (4900 27th St., Vernon)
Family Fun Park & Fireworks - A full day of outdoor winter games (human foosball, street hockey, broomball), food trucks, a dance party, and a spectacular fireworks finale to cap things off.
When: February 14, 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: Kal Beach (Kal Lake Rd., Coldstream, BC). By donation.
Other standout events include:
The Downtown Vernon Chili Cook-Off (Feb 7)
The 15th Winter Carnival Blues Festival (Feb 14)
The Going for the Gold Canada Loonie Skate (Feb 8)
The Winter Carnival Olympics at RISE Gymnastics Academy (Feb 8).
Plus, don't forget the Go For Gold 50/50 raffle (tickets on sale now, draw Feb 17).
Tickets for many events already available. For the full schedule, tickets, and updates, visit the official site: vernonwintercarnival.com.
Parade submissions close January 30.