If 60 is indeed the new 30, than the 60th anniversary of the annual Bon Soo Winter Carnival is going to be one lively, high energy, youthful celebration!
Like many long-running sponsor-driven events, the Bon Soo Winter Carnival has struggled through some lean times. Additionally, two years of COVID-19 lockdown measures decimated many not-for-profit North Ontario Winter Festivals and eroded the volunteer base necessary to execute such extensive public programming.
However, organizers behind the 60th anniversary of the Bon Soo Winter Carnival wanted to breathe new life into the popular annual February event, and this year they have focused on building an enthusiastic group of volunteers and sponsors dedicated to making that happen.
“To run any long-standing festival, it takes a village,” said City of Sault Ste. Marie spokesperson Josh Ingram. “Festival organizers have really focused on recruiting a diverse team to tackle some of the unique challenges that Bon Soo has endured in recent years.”
One of the driving forces behind this year’s Bon Soo revival has been the addition of strategic partnerships with groups like Tenaris, The Machine Shop, Odd Job Jacks, and media sponsor Village Media, who join long time title sponsor OLG as contributors to the festival.
According to Ingram, the new injection of personnel working on Bon Soo this year includes young professionals, contractors, web developers, business owners, and for the first time, a new partnership with Tourism Sault Ste. Marie.
“The infusion of funds and logistical support from various contributors as well as new team members around the table helps alleviate pressures the carnival has felt in recent history,” said Ingram. “What’s exciting is that there is a six-year plan now in place to help grow the carnival year over year, placing us in a strong position for the future and what Bon Soo will evolve into.”
So what’s new for the 60th anniversary?
Ingram says there two keys elements that should drive attendance and ensure visitors to the festival enjoy a sense of satisfaction that has been missing from the festival in recent years.
“We now have programming every day of the festival for every age category. Additionally, as the environment changes around us, we have had to really scrutinize the program. We have to be sure to have programming that isn’t relying on sub-zero temperatures, so you’ll see a variety of new programming that, although done outdoors and in the winter, doesn’t rely on any specific temperature."
Here are a few of the programming highlights of the 60th anniversary Bon Soo Winter Carnival:
- SnoMadness returns:
About: A two day event: relay, obstacles, challenge competition. Sign up your team of 6 (18+)
Where: Northern Superior Tap Room
When: February 3 & 4
- Snow Carving:
About: Bon Soo is looking for businesses, schools, local clubs, associations or family and friend groups to help us bring the SNOW CARVING competition back to downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
Where: Clergue Park
When: Carving Starts January 28 - Judging Feb 11
- Sentimentalists Live:
About: Featured on America and Canada’s got talent, the Sentimentalists offer a unique show every time. Wonder at their ability to bring telepathy, laughter and magic like no other mentalist duo performing today. Local talent Ryan McFarland opens the evening.
Where: The Machine Shop
When: 6:30 - 8:30 pm
- Polar Rush:
About: Polar Rush has quickly become THE to-do event in winter, with multiple obstacles. Polar Rush is the perfect way to kick-off Bon Soo and provides a fun experience whether you run with purpose or walk your way through the course! All you need is a light pair of boots, some winter wear, and a few friends to join you!
Where: Bellevue Park 1310 Queen Street East
When: Saturday, February 4 @ 10am.
For more information, visit them:
Online at bonsoo.on.ca, on Instagram @mrbonsoo or on Facebook @MrBonSoo @saulttourism @olg.ca #playforontario