‘It’s the smiles’ Winterama shines in Penetanguishene

In its 78th year, Winterama embraces outdoor activities and boosts community spirit.

Its the celebration of Canada’s winter as the 78th Winterama Festival is taking place this weekend in Penetanguishene.

The festival is Ontario’s longest running winter carnival and embraces winter activities including a parade, hockey tournament, ice fishing, fireworks, pea soup and chili sale.

Penetanguishene mayor Doug Rawson said the festival enables the community to come together every year.

“The great thing is the smiles. It’s so great to see people that moved away and come back and reconnect with old friends,” said Rawson. “New people come to the community just to see what the town’s about and how vibrant the community is. Everybody loves the pea soup. So come on out for pea soup. Come on out for the hockey.”

Sunday’s events includes a cardboard sled racing that begins at 10:00 a.m.