3 Unique Winter Festivals in BC’s Northeast

Guest post by Ryan Dickie

In BC’s Peace region, winter has long been regarded as a time when work comes before play. But amidst the hustle, locals have not forgotten how to kick back and savour the season. Here are some notable events that have become winter traditions in British Columbia’s far northeast.

High On Ice in Fort St. John

Creating an icy masterpiece. Photo: Ryan Dickie

In February, energetic residents of Fort St. John gather in the heart of the city for the High On Ice Winter Festival. According to event organizer Marissa Jordan, the idea of the event is to “get people out of their homes and embracing winter. Whether it’s appreciating the arts or getting physically active, High On Ice has something for people of all ages.”

The event is perhaps best known for its ice carving competition, which draws talent from across the globe. Other activities include sleigh rides, toboggan races, dodgeball, curling, skiing, ice slides, ice skating, ice fishing, live music, and cultural performances.

High On Ice has brought the community together to celebrate winter for more than 10 years. It’s an event not to miss.

Trapper’s Rendezvous in Fort Nelson

The charming exterior of the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum. Photo: Andrew Strain

The formidable spirit of Fort Nelson was built on good old-fashioned grit and braun, and these guiding principles have shaped the community. Every March for decades, Trapper’s Rendezvous has brought locals together to celebrate that resilience.

This is not your typical winter festival. All events lead back to Fort Nelson’s fur-trapping days, with activities such as log sawing, axe throwing, tea boiling, antler tossing, and snowshoe racing.

There is great enthusiasm in the community for Trapper’s Rendezvous, and locals all have their favourite Rendezvous story. This festival is a great way to experience Fort Nelson’s traditions and thriving small-town spirit.

Canadian Open Sled Dog Championship in Fort Nelson

Sled dogs leading the way in Fort Nelson. Photo: Ryan Dickie

For a truly iconic northern experience, visit during Fort Nelson’s Canadian Open Sled Dog Championship. The event attracts dog mushers from across North America, and is the last stop of the season for many of the sport’s professionals.

Even if you have never been to a dogsled race, it’s easy to see the amount of preparation and training that goes into guiding a team of dogs through miles of wilderness. A musher must have a strong bond with his or her dog team, and there is palpable sense of pride.

Stroll around the grounds and feel the heightened energy. Each canine is born and bred to do one thing—run. Many are a mix of Alaskan Husky and Short-hair Pointer.

By late March, the warmth of spring is already in the air, and the Canadian Open is a great way to say goodbye to winter.

Featured image: Ryan Dickie