Giant hot air balloons drifted across the Okanagan sky; thousands of people lined the streets to watch a parade; clowns were seen throughout the city; the nights were alive the sound of music; people ate and danced and fancy costumes were worn by many, but all good things must come to an end and Sunday marked the close of the 56th annual Vernon Winter Carnival.
Numerous events from Feb. 5-14 drew thousands of people out of the winter doldrums for the biggest party of the year in the Okanagan.
The Mardi Gras theme was embraced by young and old with feathers, masks and beads being the order of the day.
The final day of carnival featured a free skate at Kal Tire Place, a swim at the recreation centre, the finals of the 35th annual HollisWealth Over the Hill Downhill and the Coca-Cola Classic Peewee Hockey Tournament wrapped up at the Civic Arena.
Deb White, carnival chairperson, said she is “really happy with how everything went.”
White said there were eight sold out events and attendance overall seemed to up over last year.
There were also a few more events than last year, added White.
The weather also played a role with mild temperatures and a lack of any real snowfall making it easier for people to get out and take in an event or two.
For White and the rest of the volunteers, the end of carnival is bitter sweet because they can sit back and enjoy a job well done, but they will not be sitting back for long.
“We have about a month and a half where we don't have anything carnival,” said White Sunday. “Then we start working on next year's event. There is a lot to plan. We will be announcing the theme of next year's carnival in March.”
White added of anyone wants to volunteer, they can contact the carnival by calling 250-545-2236, or online.