Fireworks expected to be spectacular as usual even with earlier start.
With a leap of faith and some positive public feedback, The Forks has changed the time of the fireworks display to 8 p.m. for this year’s New Year`s Eve celebrations.
“This is a family friendly event packed full of fun and entertainment, and all activities and entertainment are free.” says Chelsea Thomson Manager of Marketing and Communications, who wants to make sure people are aware of the earlier than usual time for the fireworks.
This bold and yet wise change may attract more people who have small children and other plans later in the evening. The earlier start lets the kids attend the fireworks and get to bed earlier, as some parents will be off to other New Year`s Eve celebrations.
While many kids will be looking forward to the fireworks, some may also come earlier in the day to join in the fun with face painting and caricatures on the 2nd floor in the Forks Market from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
One can also take a part in Kids Art activities with Art City from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in Centre Court, opposite the live bands, and create that piece of art to proudly show off to family and friends.
There is a little something for everyone. You can listen to some local live entertainment on the stage in Centre Court including, The Revival at 5 p.m., Laura Mitchell at 6 p.m. and The Noble Thiefs at 7 p.m.
Plenty of free, fun activities are to be had before the big fireworks display.
If you love the great outdoors, The Arctic Winter Glacier Park is open with one kilometre of skating trails, an outdoor hockey rink near the skateboard park and skating under the canopy (weather permitting). You can rent skates in the Tower Atrium in The Forks Market.
For those who enjoy horsing around there will be Horse Drawn Wagon rides outside by Explore Manitoba from 4 to 7 p.m. You can clip clop your way around the area and enjoy the view.
Twelve lucky people will have their names drawn from the stage to watch the fireworks from the Tower. Make sure you get your name into this draw to get this awesome first class vantage point to view the fireworks.
Countdown to the spectacular fireworks show begins at 7:40 p.m., with music and dancing outside under the canopy.
The sky will be lit up with amazing fireworks at 8 p.m. to bring the New Year in with a bang.
For further information on the events happening New Year’s Day and into the New Year along with information on the daily reports of the ice safety conditions and possible opening dates and access points of the Red River Mutual Trail go to www.theforks.com
With many activities at The Forks and the warmer weather this year people are being cautioned to stay off the ice until the weather gets colder and the Red River Mutual Trail is opened.
From my heart to yours, have a great New Year and remember to play safe and have fun whatever you do for your New Year’s Eve celebration. Please don’t drink and drive.
