Rosslanders appreciate and support the arts in a big way. The tireless volunteer efforts of the Rossland Council for Arts & Culture (RCAC), helps to host a full schedule of community events, all of which are open to visitors. Many are held at the restored Miner's Union Hall, which has existed since 1898.
January's a busy month for festivals in Rossland. The Rossland Winter Carnival is the city's definitive winter festival and typically takes place during the last week of January/first week of February. Started in 1897, this is one of Canada's oldest winter carnivals and should not be missed. It includes dozens of winter activities and related snow fun.
For those seeking something not quite so cold, the Rotary's Wine Festival is also held in January. Enjoy a selection of BC wines (okay, there might be a cold Icewine!), while viewing the works of local artists.
The Blizzard Mountain Music Festival usually takes place during Winter Carnival time, and visitors can check out a variety of performers at many of Rossland's live music venues, including the Hot Stove and Old Fire Hall.
Other Yearly Rossland Festivals Include:
- eRossland Light Opera Players: (February) Players stage a different musical each winter. The collection of elaborate costumes and props add to the appeal of these delightful musicals.
- Kokanee Spring Fest: (March) Two weeks of celebration and events appealing to skiers, boarders, families, couples and snowbunnies.
- Rossland Pride: (March) The city hosts a skiing event celebrating the gay and lesbian community.
- Spring Wing Ding: (June) This downtown shopping extravaganza includes music, entertainers, and art shows.
- Gold Fever Follies: (July & August) Travel back in time with this live musical revue featuring the Boomtown Garter Girls and stories based on the old mining history of Rossland.
- Rossfest: (August) Another big, local and more relaxed event that celebrates the mountain lifestyle and will appeal to hikers, bikers, and outdoors-types.
- Rubberhead Under 17 Mountain Bike Championships: (August) Circuit and obstacle race events for younger mountain bikers.
- Golden City Days & Fall Fair: (September) A weekend of parades, dances, pancake breakfasts, events and mine tours, all in celebration of Rossland's historic Golden City mining heritage.
- Poker Ride: (September) Serious mountain bikers join this 36km/22mi event riding the spectacular Seven Summits.
- Rossland Mountain Film Fest: (November) A diverse collection from young Kootenay filmmakers that include films from both a mountain culture, and independent sphere. Music & art displays.
- Rekindle the Spirit of Christmas: (December) A Victorian-themed traditional holiday event for the whole family.
For more information, click on the link below, stop in at the Rossland Visitor Centre or visit Tourism Rossland's Events Calendar.