Winter events kick off at Saskatchewan provincial parks

Christmas events are starting throughout the province, especially at some Saskatchewan provincial parks.

Sask. Parks’ Deanna Jacobs told Gormley on Friday that many events are happening at parks across the province.

She says that winters in Saskatchewan may feel long.

“We want to help people embrace winter in the province and get outside and enjoy a variety of activities in our parks,” Jacobs said.

To start the winter events, the Festival of Lights starts this weekend at Pike Lake Provincial Park. It’s to begin in Candle Lake Provincial Park on Dec. 23.

Jacobs said at both parks, visitors can check out campsites with Christmas decorations from local businesses and community groups.

She said people are asked to take note of their favourite display.

“Visitors get to vote on their favourite display and the winner gets a cash prize donated by some local businesses,” Jacobs said.

She added events don’t just stop at Christmas; there will be events happening throughout the season at a variety of parks.

That includes a skating loop at Echo Valley Provincial Park, cutting down your own Christmas tree at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park near Maple Creek until Dec. 23, and bison at Buffalo Pound Provincial Park.

“Everyone loves our campgrounds in the summertime. Why not enjoy them in the winter as well?” Jacobs said.

She also said more people are becoming interested in the events in Saskatchewan parks.

“That’s why we’re expanding our offerings and people want to learn how to do these activities,” Jacobs said.

She added at some of the parks, there will be cross-country skiing and ice fishing depending on the thickness of the ice.

As for Christmas activities, the Festival of Lights will be running until Dec. 31.

Sask. Parks is also offering e-gift cards that can be used for park reservations and park entry permits.