Kids gather around the bonfire for some marshmallow roasting at the Shawville Winter Carnival (Municipality of Shawville photo)
Winter carnival season is sweeping through communities along the Ottawa River, with one of your first chances to get out and enjoy some wintertime festivities happening this weekend.
Shawville will lead the way in the Ottawa Valley, as its Winter Carnival will get underway this Saturday, February 7th. Mayor Bill McCleary says being the first in the region to celebrate the season while most of the Ontario side of the region waits for the Family Day weekend was not intentional but a great chance to show off before the spring thaw.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own skates, helmet, and sleds to the event, which McCleary points out packs the arena and surrounding area with plenty of fun for the family, whether they prefer to brave the cold or relax indoors.
Most of the day’s outdoor activities are weather dependent, and the township encourages everyone planning on dropping by the arena this Saturday to watch their Facebook page for updates to the schedule as they happen.
(written by Kasey Egan)