Thousands of people came out for the Winter Carnival Parade Feb. 4. (Photo credit: Wilf Mulder/submitted)

By Pete McIntyre

Carnival spirit

Big crowds come out for Winter Carnival events

Feb 5, 2023 | 9:00 AM

Through the first weekend of the 63rd annual Vernon Winter Carnival, one thing appears to be abundantly clear: people are eager to get out of the house and have some fun with their families.

That was evident Friday night when thousands took in the colourful hot air ballon glow at Polson Park and again on Saturday when thousands lined the route for the Winter Carnival parade.

Beach Radio personalities got lots of laughs as the gang from Scooby Doo at the Winter Carnival Parade. (Vernon Matters photo)

Among those getting big cheers Saturday was Vernon’s Good Citizen of the year, 100 year old Helen Sidney, who walked the parade route along with members of the award host JCI Vernon. Helen walks on Bella Vista Road near her home daily to pick up trash along the side of the road.

Helen Sidney, Good Citizen award winner in parade. (Submitted photo/Facebook)

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One reason for the huge turnouts is the fun theme, Carnival TV, which brings back great memories of television characters past and present. Another factor is that this is the first Carnival in three years without any kind of pandemic health restriction in effect.

Events today include the snow sculpture competition at Silver Star, Reconnecting in the North Okanagan, The Magic School Bus gallery shows at the Okanagan Science Centre and the Downtown Vernon Gold Rush.

Click here for more details fro the VWC website.

There has been plenty of creative entries in the best decorated event, with participants showing their love of television classics.

Valley First Credit Union in Vernon becomes Moe’s Bar from The Simpsons as part of the best decorated event. (Photo credit: Wayne Emde Photography)

Southward Medical Supplies becomes a MASH unit. (Photo credit: Wayne Emde Photography)

Winter Carnival continues until Feb. 12.