From Bobsleds to Blizzard Fest
Winter in Rossland isn’t just about skiing—it’s a full-on celebration of snow, sport, and community. The Rossland Winter Carnival, Canada’s longest-running winter festival, has been lighting up the streets since 1898, thanks to legendary Norwegian miner Olaus Jeldness, the pioneer of ski culture in North America.
From bobsled races to maple-taffy, the Carnival has something for everyone, whether you’re a powder seeker, a snow-lover, or just here for the fun. Don’t miss the Blizzard Music Festival, where the party continues into the night with live music at multiple downtown venues. Check out the jaw-dropping Olaus Ice Palace, an outdoor venue built entirely of snow, where iconic ice sculptures welcome you. And between events, the adventure never stops—explore Rossland’s snow-covered trails on fat bikes, skis, or snowshoes and experience the town at its wintery best.
winter isn’t just something you survive, it’s something you celebrate
Bobsleds, Bravery and a Touch of Madness
Sonny Samuelson Bobsled Race
If you ask the locals, one of the highlights of the Carnival during the day is the Sonny Samuelson Bobsled Race. Named in honor of Sonny Samuelson, a beloved Rossland city foreman and snowmobile shop owner who helped revive the bobsled tradition in 1987, this race has become legendary. Teams of four design, build, and ride their creative creations down eight icy blocks on one of the steepest streets in town—Spokane Street. Reaching speeds of 70 km per hour or more, this is hands down the wildest, most creative event of the Carnival. Spectators line the street, cheering as sleds twist, spin, and sometimes spectacularly tumble toward the finish line. With costumes, themes, and a healthy dose of daring, every run is a new story, and the energy is contagious.
City Streets Never Looked So Good
The Game Rail Jam
Just two streets over from the bobsled race on Queen Street, piles of snow are transformed into The Game Rail Jam, a custom-built downtown terrain park that turns the heart of Rossland into a winter playground. Skiers, snowboarders, and snowskaters glide, jib, and slide across a network of rails, boxes, and jumps, showing off tricks that are equal parts precision, creativity, and showmanship. The vibe is electric—crowds gather along the sidewalks, cheering as athletes send flips, spins, and daring slides down the snowy course. The rail jam is open to anyone brave enough to tackle the streets and step into the spotlight; it’s a rare chance to turn a city block into your personal stage. From first-timers to seasoned pros, every run brings a new wave of excitement. Where else would you have the chance to slide down a city street, catch air over a makeshift jump, and feel the roar of a cheering crowd in the middle of downtown?
FAQs
Yes! Most of the events around town are free of charge and fun to watch or participate in! Blizzard Music Fest requires tickets for events.
There are plenty of accommodation options in downtown Rossland from hotels to hostels. Ensure you book early as this is one of the busiest times of the season, with prime pow for skiing and lots happening for the Carnival.
If you are travelling here in an RV or camper that is self sufficient (no hook-ups) and enjoy the solitude of sleeping in your vehicle, you can park in the designated parking areas at Red Mountain Resort for $30/night.
All parking in Rossland is free. There is limited parking on Columbia Ave, but you will be able to find parking in the surrounding lots downtown. Everything is walkable in town.
If you are staying at Red Mountain Resort and would like to travel to/from the festival without worry, there is a complimentary ski bus with multiple pick up locations. Find more info and schedule here.
The Ultimate Snow Show
Blizzard Music Fest
When the day turns to night, the energy becomes electric as Blizzard Music Festival takes over Rossland’s downtown, bringing live music to multiple venues and a variety of musical styles to suit every taste. 3 days, 5 stages – grab an all-access pass to experience the full line up or be selective with your favourites. Don’t miss a show at the Olaus Ice Palace, an outdoor venue built entirely from snow, where stoic ice sculptures welcome you into the party and set the stage for a truly unforgettable night.
