Be a good Canadian: make the best of winter

Posted Feb 2, 2012 By EMC News

Winter carnival time, now that February has arrived, has begun in earnest, and not a minute too soon.

With the excitement of the Christmas season now a vague memory of overindulgence, and with the cold, hard reality of New Year resolutions wearing thin, it's time for a little fun.

Arnprior got the ball rolling with the annual Optimist funfest. And Fitzroy, Pakenham and Renfrew followed suit last weekend with their annual carnivals.

With weather expected to moderate during February (maybe), more of the carnival action moves outside for traditional pursuits such as logger sports, shinny challenges and ice fishing derbies.

First up is the Kinburn Carnival this weekend. And, of course, Ottawa's Winterlude begins Friday and runs through Feb. 20.

The Feb. 11-12 weekend is winter carnival central in the Upper Ottawa Valley with festivities are in Braeside, Douglas, Carp, Dacre and maybe even Calabogie.

The Family Day weekend features the McNab and Northcote carnivals and ice fishing derbies at Castleford, Fitzroy and Cobden. The last weekend of February includes a fish derby in Calabogie and carnival in Horton.

So there are plenty of opportunities to get out and celebrate winter. It's certainly better than hiding from it.

Sure, there are snowbirds who take flight for warm, foreign soil. But many Renfrew County residents like it right here at home, thank you very much.

For some, winter means solitary pursuits like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

Others prefer the thrill of downhill skiing, a game of pick-up hockey with buddies or throwing a few rocks at the local curling rink.

Feel the need for speed? The region offers more than 2,500 kilometres of groomed snowmobile trails.

There is also a keen community of anglers who find joy and rejuvenation in the ancient art of ice fishing.

Yes, Canada has a rich tradition of making fun of winter.

A 1933 book by Edwin C. Guillet on Pioneer Social life tells the tale of our winter sports heritage - playful pursuits on ponds and rivers and lakes.

Horses were also key to winter celebrations in days gone by, and they remain a reminder of our rural past as horse-drawn sleigh rides are offered at many of today's carnivals.

Winter carnivals are a wonderful distraction during the long, hard days of winter in Canada.

But, most of all, carnivals are about community and co-operation.

In the coming weeks, towns and villages across Renfrew County will host carnivals, thanks to the tireless efforts of teams of volunteers who step up to the plate every year, to brighten the dark days of winter.

Thanks to all these kind people who know that winter is only as cold, or as warm, as you choose to make it.

So grab your boots, mittens and a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy.