The Bon Soo Winter Carnival, presented by OLG, is a nine-day festival of frigid fun that will take over Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario from February 2nd to 10th, 2024.
“There are events for everyone, of all ages and all interests,” explained Carnival President Julia Dufour. “We’ve worked hard to expand our programming to include fun activities for families, both inside and out, as well as launched our 19+ zone at Northern Superior Tap Room!”
The Bon Soo Winter Carnival has been Northern Ontario’s largest winter festival for over 60 years now. The mascot is a six-foot tall red toque and coat dressed snowball who arrives in February to bring waves, high fives, ‘knucks’ and smiles over the nine days of activity.
Bon Soo events this year include classics such as the Polar Bear Dip, and new favourites like the Polar Rush Urban Winter Obstacle Course, the EDM Sno Bath (with Electronic Dance Music playing from the rooftop of Northern Superior Brewery), the Fire and Ice Hot Sauce Challenge with local hot sauce, and an Illusionist show with Ryan McFarling, among much more.
“Last year the carnival expanded, adding two more downtown locations,” enthused Dufour. “We have the 19+ zone at local microbrewery, Northern Superior Tap Room, the newly opened Downtown Plaza and the main grounds, as always, at the Canal District.”
The Bon Soo Winter Carnival is a chance to show the community and visitors all that Sault Ste. Marie has to offer.
Josh Ingram, Tourism Sault Ste. Marie Area Coordinator shared, “After a phenomenal 60th year and the addition of so much new programming we’re excited to host this incredible event that showcases how thrilling winter can be in the North.”
Most events are free with the purchase of a Bon Soo button ($10) or jacket tag ($8).
Bookmark the Bon Soo Facebook page or website to find out more, and pick up your button or tag at participating retailers in Sault Ste. Marie, found here.
Ingram finished, “We couldn’t be more excited about this year’s Bon Soo Carnival. See everyone there!”
The Bon Soo Winter Carnival runs February 2nd to 10th, throughout Sault Ste. Marie.