Despite the snowy forecast, Walden Winter Carnival went ahead as planned with plenty of people checking out the snowy day activities. Free family skating, balloon soccer, and pony rides were among the events that held their own as the snow trickled down.
“The turn out has been huge, we have about 5000 people that have attended the carnival," boasted Karen Makela, director of Walden Winter Carnival committee, "I know someone who came from Timmins to attend the carnival.”
Walden Winter Carnival has expanded considerably in the 45-year span. Now, it boasts four venues which includes: Anderson Farm, St. Paul Elementary School, St. James Elementary School and T.M. Davies Arena.
“We included the St. Paul Elementary School to attract the teens in our community to come participate,” explained Sam Thyne, Chair of the Carnival Committee. “Every year we try to do something new and bring in new acts that will keep our event fresh and growing,”
This year, the carnival added new activities like the comedy night and hockey demonstrations by former Waldenites and NHL players Craig Duncanson and Troy Crowder. These proved to be big crowd-pleasers.
“We like to involve people in our community and bring back ex-Waldenites who have been successful outside of Walden to share their skill,” Makela said.
Making a comeback this year again were some tried tested and loved activities like face painting, petting zoo and boot hockey.
“We have a real variety for all age groups. It's truly a family fun affair," said Thyne. "Everyone in the family will have something to do.”
Check out our photo gallery of all the activities that went down on Sunday.
