A Weekend Stroll Through Fernie’s - Griz Days:
A cultural tour of Art, Legend and Winter Magic
Friday. Arriving in style. Step off the highway and into the heart of Fernie as Griz Days transform the town into a winter wonderland. The festival theme this year is Vintage Formal, why not embrace the spirit of the bygone era? Complement your outfit with the perfect accessories for this weekend – a fur coat, a classic fedora and a scarf – to channel a mix of wilderness and vintage.
Take a leisurely walk down 2nd Avenue, where shop windows glow with twinkling lights and Griz-themed displays. Stop by the Fernie Arts Coop to browse unique handcrafted works by local artists, from paintings to pottery, all celebrating the spirit of the region. Be sure to check the wonderful Griz-themed window display, showcasing our interpretation of this legendary mountain man.
Don’t forget to join the Fernie Griz Days Parade!
Saturday. Craft, Carve and Create. Start the day with a hot coffee from one of the Fernie’s cafes before heading to the Griz Days Craft Fair. Fernie Arts Coop members are participating in the fair. They showcase their talents through handcrafted items – perfect for taking a piece of Fernie home with you. Chat with the artists, learn about their inspiration, and maybe find some Griz-themed gifts and crafts.
Stroll over to Station Square, where the interactive Snow, Ice and Wood carvers sculpt stunning creations before your eyes and even try your hand at carving your own snowy masterpiece. As dusk falls, do up your Vintage Formal attire and step into a winter gala atmosphere. Fernie comes alive with live music, elegant outfits and an air of celebration.
Don’t forget to enjoy the Spectacular Fireworks!
Sunday. Farewell to the Griz. Hop on the chairlift at Fernie Alpine Resort for the Winter Art Discovery exhibit. Glide past art installations along the Cedar Trail, where skis and snowboards are transformed into storytelling canvases, many of them created by the Arts Coop member artists. The fusion of outdoor adventure and artistic expression makes for a one-of-a kind ski experience.
As you leave Fernie, the echoes of laughter, art and winter adventure – a reminder that Griz Days is more than a festival, it’s a celebration of local art, mountain culture, creativity and community.
