Winter Festival arrives in Vita

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This article was published 15/01/2019 (1925 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Two days of fast-paced fun arrive in the Southeast this weekend, as the Vita and Area Winter Festival sleds into town.

Pancake breakfasts will be held from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Vita fire hall on Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Friendship Centre on Sunday. Prices vary by age.

Sled dog rides run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, costing $20 for adults and $15 for kids age 14 and under.

Races, free for spectators, take place a field west of Vita.

One and two-dog skijoring races start at 10 a.m. both days. Sled dog races begin at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, and at noon and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Craft vendors will display their wares at the Vita Hall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, while horse drawn sleigh rides run from noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday’s schedule is rounded out with a hockey tournament, tobogganing, borscht competition, cribbage tournament, and performances by local musicians. Various children’s activities are also offered. Fireworks at 6 p.m. conclude the day’s events.

On Sunday afternoon, penny bingo and free skating are offered. Racers will gather at 4 p.m. for the race awards, where $6,500 in prize money will be distributed.

The annual festival raises funds for Vita’s arena and curling club, and is organized with help from South East Sled Dog Club volunteers.