Winter Highlights by Krista Turcasso

Local's Perspective

Jim MacKinnon

Reel Canadian Film Festival

Like many of us I first became involved in the arts and culture scene in Fernie by attending events like Griz Days, the Wednesday Socials, and concerts and art exhibits at the Arts Station. My involvement in the Reel Canadian Film Festival began when some friends asked me to join the Programming Committee. I’ve always enjoyed films and was intrigued by the concept of a festival celebrating Canadian film. I joined the board the following year.

The Reel Canadian Film Festival is unique in that it focuses on films with a Canadian connection and includes full length features and documentaries, shorts, and a young film makers workshop focused on local aspiring film makers.

In January 2021 and 2022 we presented our 13th and 14th annual festivals virtually. It’s been an interesting few years for the film festival business with the move to virtual and hybrid festivals, a trend that is likely to continue.

We really appreciated the access virtual screenings allowed but are looking forward to returning to an in-person festival which gives us an opportunity to discuss the films and to interact with people involved in the making of films.

The Reel Canadian Film Festival will be held at the Vogue Theatre in Fernie January 27-29, 2023. Check us out at fernielovesfilm.ca or contact us at reelfilmfestival@gmail.com if you are interested in getting involved.

Q. If I had to describe Fernie in one word, it would be…

A. Happy-place.

Q. The first thing I do on a powdery morning is…

A. Head to Cedar Ridge.

Q. Winter is a unique time in Fernie because…

A. The mountains are magical when they are covered in snow.

Q. What is one thing you recommend visitors try or do during their stay?

A. Check out the Elk Valley Nordic Centre.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Fernie continues to raise the bar when it comes to arts and culture. Live music acts whether local or touring through town are impressive, as are the open mic nights and weekly music events at bars and restaurants. Galleries and exhibits are tucked in various corners throughout town, from numerous artist studios to the rotating exhibits at the Arts Station and Museum to restaurants, cafes and shops showcasing local artwork in their establishments. Add to this an historic theatre, multiple film festivals and movie screenings throughout the season, and literary events each month at the Heritage Library, there is truly a cultural scene in Fernie.

Winter Highlights

BY KRISTA TURCASSO

DUMMY DOWNHILL | MARK SHANNON/FAR PHOTO

It is fantastic to see the events calendar continue to grow after a couple of years of being ‘at least six feet apart.’ Here are some of the highlights throughout the season, make sure to visit ferniefix.com/events for more information and the full list of opportunities to choose from during your stay.

November

Fernie Mogul Smoker – 12.11.2022

A locally organized event held annually for over 40 years paying respect to the Griz with the hope he will make it snow, it went from a backyard gathering to an all-night affair.

Ski and Board Film Festival – 12.11.2022

An opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season by watching this year’s best ski and snowboard films on the big screen! Feature films include Bank Collective’s Feel Real, Teton Gravity Research's Magic Hour and Red Bull’s Fleeting Time.

Light Up the Night – 25.11.2022

The official “lighting up” of town for winter. Businesses are open late to encourage shopping local this holiday season. Mr. and Mrs. Claus can be found strolling through town, enjoy Light Up the Arts public art installation, and pop by the Twilight Craft Fair.

December

Tentative Opening Day – 3.12.2022

The day we’ve been waiting for: opening at Fernie Alpine Resort. Get your seasons pass in advance, you don’t want to be in line at Guest Services watching first chair load!

Fernie Museum Gala – 10.12.2022, Gallery Opening 16.12.2022

The Fernie Museum hosts the Gala Fundraiser: An Egyptian Murder Mystery – enjoy celebrating and supporting the museum. And then, the Fernie Spinners and Weavers Guild’s exhibit, Second Skin opens.

January

The Elk Valley Streak – 1.1.2023 - 31.1.2023

The popular #FernieStreak is getting a revamp for January 2023. With the whole Elk Valley streaking their hearts out for the past four years, it’s time to unite the valley and streak forth, together! It’s simple. 30 mins a day of ANY outside activity, every day (or as many as you can). More info in the January Fix and on Facebook.

Blizzard of Aahhh's 35th Anniversary Screening – 13.1.2022

Don't miss the screening of Greg Stump's masterpiece, Blizzard of Aahhh's at the Community Centre, with Stump in person to introduce a special cut of the film. 7pm

Reel Canadian Film Festival – 27.1.2023 – 29.1.2023

Celebrating the creativity, diversity and independence of the Canadian Film Industry with feature films, shorts and more. Enjoy two days of movie viewing, local reels, Q&A and more.

February

Fernie Mountain Film Festival – 27.2.2022-28.2.2022

Dedicated to filmmakers who spark awareness of mountain cultures, fragile environments and the perseverance of explorers. Expect an inspiring lineup, local Photo Competition, and a lot of winter vibe.

March

Griz Days Winter Festival – 3.3.2022 – 5.2.2022

One of Fernie’s oldest traditions, Griz Days celebrates the legend responsible for our champagne powder. The Griz Competition, pancake breakfast, parade, music, and the Dummy Downhill are a few of the highlights.

April

Retro Weekend – 1.4.2023 - 2.4.2023

Get your best retro gear out and hit the slopes at Fernie Alpine Resort for a weekend of music and celebrations, embracing the interesting trends of the industry.

Fernival – 15.4.2022 – 16.4.2022

Celebrating the end of an amazing season at Fernie Alpine Resort, enjoy live music and beer gardens in the plaza and spring skiing all weekend long.