Day of activities planned for this Saturday
The Town of Altona is inviting residents to embrace the Olympic spirit this winter as the Altona Winter Carnival returns with an Olympic Edition this Saturday, Feb. 7.
This one-day event will feature a mix of long-standing favourites and new Olympic-inspired activities, timed to coincide with the start of the Winter Olympics the day before.
“With the Olympics starting the same week, we thought it would be a fun and exciting way to incorporate the spirit of the games into our event,” said Altona recreation programmer Brittany Winkler. “We’ve kept some of our traditional, well-loved activities while adding a few new ones inspired by the Olympics.”
Several activities are designed to mirror the winter sports seen on the international stage. Among the highlights are the Curling Button Challenge, where participants test their accuracy by trying to hit the button; the Hockey Shootout Challenge, hosted by the W.C. Miller Aces and complete with a goalie in net; and the Snowshoe Dash, which challenges participants to race through a course wearing provided snowshoes.
“These events are meant to be fun, accessible, and interactive,” said Winkler. “You don’t need any experience, just a willingness to try something new and enjoy the day.”
While new activities are drawing attention, one of the carnival’s most anticipated events remains a familiar one. The Cardboard Toboggan Races will once again take place, continuing a tradition that has been part of the carnival for decades.
“This event has been part of the carnival for as long as I can remember…I even participated when I was younger,” Winkler said. “It’s always a crowd favourite.”
Participants are required to build their toboggans entirely out of cardboard, with no tape on the bottom and no pre-made sleds allowed. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: fastest, most creative, and longest run.
“Over the years we’ve seen everything from dragons and Red Bull cars to school buses and simple cardboard designs,” Winkler said. “That creativity is what makes the event so special.”
Winter Carnival events are drop-in and do not require pre-registration, making it easy for families and individuals to participate throughout the day. The only exception is the Cardboard Toboggan Races, where participants are asked to arrive early to sign in before racing.
New this year is a Winter Carnival Passport, designed to tie the entire event together while encouraging participants to explore all activities.
“Passports can be picked up starting Wednesday, Feb. 4 at the Recreation Office, or at the event itself,” said Winkler. “They’ll be available at the pancake breakfast in the morning, and later at the pond.”
Participants can collect stamps at each activity they attend. Completed passports will be entered to win a 2026 family swim pass for the Altona Aquatic Centre.
“It’s a fun way to encourage people to try as many activities as possible, and really take in everything the Carnival has to offer,” Winkler said.
With food, games, family-friendly entertainment, and a strong community focus, Winkler hopes the Winter Carnival continues to be a highlight of the winter season.
“It’s about bringing people together,” she said. “Whether you come for one activity or stay all day, there’s something for everyone, and we’re excited to welcome the community out to celebrate winter … Olympic style.”
For the full Winter Carnival schedule, head online to altona.ca/p/winter-carnival.
