THUNDER BAY – Thousands visited Marina Park for a Family Day celebration packed with activities Monday. The free city-run SnowDay event occupied much of the park, offering plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained.
Visitors marveled at snow sculptures crafted by six carving teams, themed around the city’s 50th anniversary and the upcoming Special Olympics Canada winter games, which will run from Feb. 25 to 29 in Thunder Bay. Attendees could vote online for the People’s Choice Award.
Dozens congregated on the pond adjacent to Bight Restaurant to try their hand at ice fishing, with gear provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Ishan Shah, a student who arrived in Thunder Bay in September, was one of the lucky few to make a catch. The event marked his first time fishing, ice or otherwise.
Looking forward to a fresh-caught dinner, Shah said the event offered a chance to get outside and experience the best of a Thunder Bay winter: “Everyone coming out of their houses, spending time with family – it’s really nice.”
Four-year-old Tobias Donovan, focused intently on his rod, wasn’t having quite as much luck. That didn’t stop Donovan from enjoying the event, with highlights including the Science North display and snow graffiti, where children could adorn giant snowblocks with their own designs.
A number of outside organizations helped with the event, offering activities including face painting, wee snowman making, bannock over the fire, and snowshoeing.
