In our mountain towns, along the Powder Highway, we have residents who are resilient – outdoor enthusiasts who love to embrace the crisp air, the fresh powder and revel in uniting with their community at winter carnivals, festivals, and the lively celebrations. They define our unique Kootenay mountain culture. Here are a few of our major Kootenay winter celebrations (by community) for visitors wanting to join in the fun this winter.
CASTLEGAR
Castlegar Sculpturewalk’s renowned Night of Fire on Friday, December 12, 2025. Experience a unique community event featuring the unveiling and ignition of an impressive, artist-designed sculpture, alongside the announcement of our 2025 Sculpturewalk Award Winners. This free, family-friendly celebration promises an engaging evening of art, creativity, and community spirit.
FERNIE
Celebrating over 45 years of tradition at the annual Griz Days, taking place March 6-8, 2026. Features a diverse range of family-friendly activities, including the Griz Days Story Walk, SnowGolf at the Fernie Golf Club, the Griz Days Parade, Junior Griz & Extreme Griz Competitions, fireworks, and skiing at the Fernie Alpine Resort, among other exciting events.
GOLDEN
EmberFest, in Golden, is a metamorphosis from the Snow King’s Masque Parade. This festival (February 26, 2026) signifies a powerful combination of creativity, community, and connection – the trifecta that fuels our existence. Participate in the warmth and unity of the bonfire; share your anecdotes, performances, and artistic ventures that truly mirror our resilient spirit.
INVERMERE
The annual Bonspiel-on-the-Lake, held from January 16-18, 2026, coincides with the Snowflake Festival on January 16, 2026 – offering fun outdoor activities for curling enthusiasts and winter activity fans alike. In addition to the curling tournament, attendees can enjoy family ice-skating on Lake Windermere, live music, pond hockey, bonfires, fireworks, and more family-friendly things to do.
NELSON
The Kootenay Coldsmoke Powderfest, taking place February 5-8, 2026, at Whitewater Mountain Resort, provides a valuable opportunity for participants to advance their backcountry touring skills and refine their techniques. Under the guidance of experienced coaches and instructors, attendees can engage in a range of workshops tailored to all skill levels, both in-bounds and in the backcountry. The festival welcomes both snowboarders and skiers seeking a comprehensive and enriching experience.
Join them in a celebration of the extraordinary local breweries and distilleries in their region, cheers to the Blast BeerFest (March 21-22, 2026). The on-the-snow beer garden and an exceptional selection of local craft brews, complemented by the resort’s signature Whitewater’s pow chow. Participate in our beer tasting by casting your vote for your favourite brew, enjoy live music, and take in the stunning views of Ymir Peak.
The Yeti Natural Selection event returns to Revelstoke for another year (March 10-16, 2026). The best all-mountain freestyle riders in the world will come together at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, in partnership with Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing, for the crowning of a men’s and women’s champion. Expect twenty-four fearless riders hurtling down the naturally amplified and feature-rich terrain in Revelstoke.
The Blizzard Music Festival takes place annually during Rossland’s Winter Carnival, scheduled for January 22-24, 2026. This renowned Canadian winter music festival features a diverse lineup of genres, including rock, folk, blues, hip-hop, and electronica.
Since 1898, the Rossland Winter Carnival has proudly stood as Canada’s longest-running winter celebration and a significant milestone in the history of skiing in the country. This annual event, in Rossland, features a variety of community-focused and family-friendly activities, including ice sculptures, snow slides, tobogganing, skating, local business offerings, and more. Join us in celebrating this rich tradition from January 22-25, 2026.
