There’s been no shortage of fantastic winter events in the valley this year, and Radium Hot Springs is planning on making its own mark this season with the return of Winterfest.
Winterfest is a family-oriented event that takes place this year on February 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in various locations around Radium, although primarily in the park downtown next to Legends’ Field.
Entering its third year, Winterfest offers several different activities throughout the day, beginning with the always popular Curling Fun Spiel at 11 a.m. As the curling takes place on a smaller ice surface than usual, organizer Clara Reinhardt says that it is a very manageable size for participants of all ages, and that most of the teams that enter are usually family teams. At the same time, there will be children’s crafts and games from 12 to 2 p.m. inside the seniors’ hall, while outdoor activities take place just outside.
“We’re sticking with the tried and true,” Reinhardt said. “We’re inviting anyone who wants to have some fun to come out and enjoy Radium.”
The fun doesn’t stop there, as two more popular activities will be making their return.
The Potato Topper Challenge features local restaurateurs, who dream up the best accompaniments for baked spuds. For $5 participants get to sample all the different offerings from all the different restaurants and vote on a winner.
The Wilderness Challenge also makes its return this year. You can put your skills to the test and race on an outdoor obstacle course to determine the top wilderness challenger. For this competition participants are asked to register in advance at Meet On Higher Ground Coffee Shop in Radium.
To register for curling, contact Clara Reinhardt at radium.rec09@gmail.com or call 250-347-7706. The entry fee is $20 per team and includes two games. There will also be a draw to the button contest that goes on throughout the day — a rock is $5 and all proceeds go to the Radium Events Committee.
“The whole idea with the Radium Events Committee right from the start was to create activities that would encourage people to come out and have some fun,” Reinhardt said. “It’s like our New Year’s party — it’s in a nice, central location, and you can come visit and see some people… what we’re encouraging is making it a meeting place.”