Winter fun

Families escaped their homes to play in ice and snow at the winter carnival on Saturday.

Fort William Historical Park held its eighth annual winter carnival on Saturday. Families had the option of navigating through a maze, sliding down the hill on a tube, snow shoeing or going for a dog sled ride. The three-day family event started on Friday

Lezlie Gomes came with her husband, her three children and some friends. Gomez said they came out last year and had such a good time they decided to come back.

"It is a good way to spend the Family Day weekend," Gomez said. "(The winter carnival) is very much a Thunder Bay thing to do. "

Gomez said she hopes to try the dog sledding but that depended on how long her kids could last in the chilly weather.

Close to the tubing hill is the ice maze. The walls were more than five feet tall and had many twists and turns. Derek Brabinder was navigating through the maze looking for the exit with his wife and two children.

"This is a good encouragement (to come out during) the winter," Brabinder said. "Where else can you see dog sledding?"

Marty Mascarin, communications officer for Fort William Historical Park, said the number of events is to appeal to all ages. Besides the outdoor events, there are also indoor ones including children’s crafts and a Yuker tournament.

Mascarin said people generally think of the fort as just a heritage facility but it also doubles as a recreational area.

"There is a little something for everyone," Mascarin said. "We really make use of every square inch of the place. It is a great way to have people come out and break out the winter dull-drum."

The Winter Carnival will conclude on Sunday with a fire works display. Prices for adults are $10, students age 6 to 12 are $5, children ages 3 to 5 are $3 and free for children two and under. Dog sled rides are an additional $5.