Redvers Winterfest which returns on Saturday, promises a packed schedule of activities, entertainment, and community spirit.
Whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant celebration of winter and togetherness. The festivities kick off at 10:00 A.M. with a thrilling performance from Sitruc James, a magician who will amaze the crowd at the school gym. As Kendra Miller, a board member of the Winterfest committee, shares, "We always have a big entertainer that usually kicks off the day and this year we have Sitruc James, an amazing magician."
But that’s just the beginning - Winterfest features a wide range of events to keep everyone entertained throughout the day. "There’s Santa photos, we fill the rink curling side with bouncy castles, and there’s a huge corn maze over there this year. A stock car display from Estevan Motor Speedway is coming so kids can sit in the cars, look at them, take their pictures, sit in the driver's seat," says Miller.
With several new additions, this year’s Winterfest has even more to offer. Older kids and teens can enjoy a youth paint class as well as a floor hockey tournament to show off their skills. "We had some feedback that there may be a need for more things for the older teenagers, so this year we’ve brought in a youth paint class and a floor hockey tournament," explains Miller. "The corn maze is also new this year, so that’ll be fun. So is the stock car display."
These exciting new additions complement the classic favourites, like Santa photos, tractor sleigh rides, and kids’ crafts. There’s also a town-wide scavenger hunt and a big obstacle course hosted by the Estevan Fire Department, who also bring along a large bonfire. "The firemen are a huge part of the event in town. They do a big obstacle course for kids to partake in, and then they also do a big bonfire at night, which is awesome," says Miller.
Winterfest is a celebration of community involvement, where local businesses go all out, offering special deals and festive treats. Miller highlights the participation of local businesses, saying, "The businesses run specials, like in sport, some of the restaurants have food specials. The Rising Phoenix Cafe has all Christmas-themed lunches and Grinch Punch for the kids, and it’s all themed, which is really fun."
The event also features a parade with lights, music, and candy, bringing even more joy to the streets. "The parade’s getting bigger every year, with more and more businesses joining in. That’s really exciting because I think that’s a big excitement for the kids—seeing all the lights, flashing lights, and all the candy," says Miller.
As the day continues, there will be plenty of chances for everyone to join in the fun. Following the parade, attendees can head over to the rink for a skate with the Rockets, the senior hockey team, where fans can skate alongside their favorite players, take pictures, and chat. "Kids absolutely love getting to skate with their favorite players, take some pictures, and talk to them," shares Miller.
The day wraps up with an exciting Rockets game to finish off the festivities. "It’s a super jam-packed filled day," Miller adds.
"We have so many kids coming up to us during the day saying, 'Oh, Winterfest is my favorite day of the year.' So that really makes it worth it, and it's lots of fun for everyone!
Winterfest is a free event, making it an accessible and affordable way for families to enjoy a full day of entertainment. For all the details, be sure to check out the Redvers Winterfest Facebook page.