THUNDER BAY – News – Winterfest is set to go at Prince Arthur’s Landing. The City of Thunder Bay is hosting the first ever WinterFest on Monday, Feb. 18, to celebrate Family Day.

The event runs from 1PM until 8PM with activities and entertainment for all ages. Fun will include Thunder Bay’s first Snow Sculpture Symposium with four teams of local artists producing whimsical snow sculptures.

Winterfest celebrates Winter in Thunder Bay

“I’m very excited to be carving in a local snow sculpture symposium,” said artist John Books, who will be working with his team to carve a sculpture representing winter winds and outdoor fun, “I have carved at events in other cities, both in Canada and across the border, and I feel that this event is the start of something big for Thunder Bay.”

Other sculptures will include a Wooly Mammoth, a Snowy Owl and Owlets, and a Carload of Animals heading out for some outdoor fun. The public can vote for their favourite snow sculpture to receive the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced at 7 pm. All who come are also invited to lend their hand to creating three additional sculptures during the event.  

“There will be a host of outdoor and indoor activities for the whole family to enjoy as we celebrate everything that winter has to offer,” said Sophie Best, Prince Arthur’s Landing Programmer, “Everyone is invited to come down to see the snow sculptures and try activities that are sure to put a smile on your face!”

Winterfest activities

Other activities taking place at  WinterFest include dog sledding at the Spirit Garden, Static Family Day Jib Jam (snowboarding) demonstration at the Skateboard Park,  Come n’ Try workshops for skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skijoring, kicksledding, curling, and hockey; a toboggan hill; children’s crafts and games. Remember to bring a helmet for ice activities and a toboggan for the children’s hill at the Festival Area.

For those who want to stay warm inside, the Baggage Building Arts Centre will be hosting a Family Day Arts Extravaganza including arts & crafts, fashion shows, and performances. Bight Restaurant will also be open from 11:30 am to 10 pm. Local entertainment will be taking place both inside the Baggage Building and outdoors around the skating rink. The night will be lit up with fire and LED performances, and capped off by a spectacular fireworks show at 8 pm.  

Admission to WinterFest at Prince Arthur’s Landing is FREE. Limited parking is available via the Pearl Street entrance, and accessible parking is available via the overpass entrance to the park.