Celebrate snow at the Winter Carnival at The Point

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The last time the Winter Carnival took place at The Point Artist-Run Centre it was an extra-special edition in celebration of the 10-year anniversary of the 2010 Olympics.

“We really did it up big and had lots of great outdoor stuff during the day,” says Stephen Vogler, artistic director of The Point. “It was a really fun event. COVID hit a couple weeks after that; it was our last big event before all this. I’m stoked to get back to it.”

The event is officially back on Sunday, Feb. 19—and drawing on much of the success of the 2020 edition.

The all-ages afternoon festivities include snow and ice dancing, a snow-sculpting competition, curling and shinny hockey—as long as the Alta Lake ice allows it—fireside singalongs, winter costumes (bring your own if you prefer), food, drinks, live painting and more.

Inside the lodge, local Ira Pettle will host a children’s dance party—and play selections from his new album, A Little Bit, at 1 p.m.

“There’s a lot during the day, but a lot of it is ‘drop in and enjoy the atmosphere.’ We’ve got some live music. Susan Holden will be doing a campfire singalong. She’ll trade off with this local accordion player Thomas Studer. He can wander around and he does a mix of traditional and contemporary pop songs, but on the accordion. That’s going on the whole time,” Vogler says.

As for the on-ice fun, as of early February, conditions were promising.

“There’s snow on top of the ice, but it’s possible to make a rink,” Vogler says. “You just never know with our West Coast winters.”

While the afternoon activities are free, there will be a chance to buy food and drinks—with the bar open throughout the Carnival.

“The whole idea of a winter carnival is to celebrate the season that we enjoy every year, but can be kind of long and dark and cold,” Vogler adds. “We’re going to celebrate no matter what. Luckily, we have the lodge for an indoor-outdoor aspect. You can get inside and warm up.”

The evening events, including dinner and a concert, will take place indoors.

Opening up the evening will be eclectic duo Jen Bisset and the aforementioned Studer mixing guitar, vocals, and accordion. East Vancouver rockers Kitty and the Rooster will serve as the headliners of the night.

“I’ve gotten to know a lot of musicians in East Van,” Vogler says. “I knew about their act, and it sounded really fun and festive, so I thought they’d be perfect for this event.”

And, of course, in keeping with the theme, a hearty winter dinner will also be part of the offerings.

Tickets for the show and dinner are $40 for adults and $30 for children 12 and under. The show-only tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under.

Find tickets and more info at thepointartists.com.