Organizers of Sunnidale Winterama say snow or no, “the greatest little show on snow” will go on.
Committee member Chuck Arrand describes the community event, a tradition in New Lowell since it started in 1975, as a cheerful weekend to assist people in getting through the winter blues.
“It’s a very busy weekend with lots for people to participate in, from all age groups, and it truly is a weekend of merriment and community in the dead of winter,” said Arrand.
This year’s event is Feb. 2-4 with most of the scheduled activities centering around New Lowell Recreation Park and the Legion. Theme for 2024 is Cartoon Carnival.
The Friday night line-up begins with the firefighters’ spaghetti supper at New Lowell Legion from 4:30 p.m., where the winners of the beard contest will be announced at 6:30 p.m., followed by the burning of the green, the “coolest” fireworks around, and acomedy night with Den of Hilarities.
Saturday’s activities begin with a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m., followed by a craft show, silent auction at the fire hall, parade, bed races, opening ceremonies, butter tart contest, progressive euchre, and a Saturday night dance where people are encouraged to show up in cartoon- inspired costumes for a chance to win the title of best-dressed.
Winterama continues Sunday with a big breakfast from 9 a.m., and the Morgan Taylor Snowmobile Fun Run.
Events that are snow dependent include Saturday’s Snowmaggedon – an antique snowmobile show and shine – the snodeo obstacle course, and a new guided snowshoe Sunday, which could morph into a winter hike.
Admission to most of the contests and activities is included with the purchase of a $2 Winterama button, available on site.
Throughout January, the community is invited to get a jump on Winterama activities by participating in the colouring and poster contests for elementary school students and a snow sculpture contest (top two winners will be announced at the spaghetti supper).
The community 50/50 draw is already underway, with tickets available at the Legion and New Lowell businesses.
All event details, prices, locations and registration info is online at www. discoverclearview.ca/community- events/signature-events/winterama.
Volunteers are needed to serve breakfast and help out at other activities. Contact Chuck Arrand at clutchpet@gmail.com or 705-828- 1936 or Deb Bronée at dbronee@ yahoo.ca or 705-790-4262.
Trina Berlo photo: Winterama Willie is surrounded by his friends on the Sunnidale Winterama organizing committee, Chuck Arrand (from left), Melanie Walters, and Deb Bronée with her granddaughter Anna Bronée before heading out on the Stayner Santa Claus Parade route.