Riverview Winter Carnival Returns with 50+ Activities to Celebrate the Season

RIVERVIEW (N.B.) – Jan 6, 2026 – Riverview Winter Carnival is back, bringing more than 50 activities across the town during the ten-day festival. 

Happening January 30 to February 8, this year's event is all about embracing winter with outdoor adventures, inclusive wellness activities, and fun for the whole family. With a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences hosted by the Town of Riverview and community partners, there’s something for everyone!

What to Expect

Winter Carnival kicks off with the much-loved Ignite event on Jan. 30 (storm date Jan. 31). Attendees can enjoy free transportation to and from Winter Wonderland Park. 

Delight in maple candy on the snow ($3) from 6–7:30 p.m., along with free hot chocolate, s’mores, and bannock while supplies last. Weather permitting, lace up your skates, or sledge, on the outdoor oval, but don’t forget your helmet! Fireworks begin at 7 p.m. Sliding is not permitted on Friday and Saturday due to fireworks set up and teardown. 

Special thanks to Ignite sponsors: Kent Building Supplies, Inglis Jewelers, and Rehab 1.

For a complete guide to all activities, visit www.riverviewwintercarnival.ca and follow @TownofRiverview on Facebook for updates or cancellations.

A Great Place to…  

From snowshoeing and fat bike races to live music, workshops, and bonfires, here’s a sneak peek of what festivalgoers can enjoy.

Explore

• Snowshoe adventures on various trails across town, ranging from family-friendly routes to more challenging adventures. Details: townofriverview.ca/snowshoe
• Complete the Winter Carnival Adventure Lab to earn one of 100 limited-edition trackable coins, featuring 2025’s snow art on the Mill Creek Nature Park reservoir. Full details: townofriverview.ca/wintergeocaching. Thanks to Karma GIS Consulting Services.
• Watch local snowshoe artist Matt Robinson create a winter art piece at Mill Creek Nature Park (conditions permitting).
• Participate in a Velo NB sanctioned fat bike race at Mill Creek Nature Park along scenic snowy trails. Please note, the park will be closed until 3 p.m. day of with only limited access to the reservoir lookout to watch the finish line.  
• Learn the basics of winter survival with Forêt Acadienne School of Bushcraft, covering cold-weather gear, campsite setup, fire safety, and staying warm outdoors.  

Party

• Enjoy live performances by one of Canada’s most successful rap artists Classified and singer-songwriter Jacob Lewis, winner of Canada’s Got Talent, at Holy Whale Beer Hall.
• Laugh out loud at HUBCAP Comedy Festival shows.
• Dance the night away at the Snowflake Shindig Dance and the Pre-Teen Dance (ages 11–13) at Coverdale Centre.
• Gather around a bonfire roast and sing along with Riverview Scouts and musician Chris Glidden.
• Glow under vibrant lights at Glow Skates.
• Cheer on local youth at Battle of the Bands at Riverview Community Hall

Nourish

• Enjoy a pancake breakfast, a chicken luncheon, and soup and chowder night.
• The Mayor’s Luncheon returns for residents 60+, with meals provided by Homestead Restaurant. Thanks to sponsor Jean Coutu.
• Sip tea and enjoy treats at the Cat’s Meow Tea Party, supporting CARMA Cat Rescue.
• Experience a cold plunge and refresh your body from the inside out at the PCM Aquatic Center.  
• Learn how to fold, shape and bake your own freshly made sourdough bread.

Move

• Watch top skateboarders at the Frozen Open, Atlantic Canada’s premier winter skateboarding contest.
• Participate in free yoga, Pilates, glow aquafit and sound healing sessions.
• Try new sports through Pickleball Clinics and Ringette Try-It Day.
• Join a Glow Aquafit class or take the Cold Plunge Challenge at Pat Crossman Memorial Aquatic Centre.
• Play cards at the Giant Card Party at Parkland Riverview or the Crib Tournament at the Lions Club.
• Take part in a snowshoe poker run at Farmer Brown’s Greenhouse.
• Make a splash at the free all-ages open swim, complete with winter-themed activities, challenges, and prizes.

Connect

• Bring your stuffie for the Stuffie Sleepover and Storytime at Riverview Public Library.
• Tap into your creative side with pottery mug painting, watercolour painting, cross-stitch, or paint night workshops.
• Learn about wastewater management at TransAqua or Riverview’s wartime history at the Vets’ Open House.
• Bring a puzzle, take a puzzle at the Puzzle Exchange, an all-ages community exchange. Trade gently used jigsaws and discover new favourites.
• Put your brain on ice at YOUth Drop-In’s Brain Freeze Trivia Night. Team up with friends for fast-paced trivia, cool prizes, and bragging rights.
• Watch performances at the Maritime Closed Highland Dance Championships and February Fling at Riverview Middle.
• Attend Sound Healing for Adults for a full-body guided meditation session.
• Bring the kids to the Riverview Lions Club for bingo fun, prizes, and snacks, but only children get to call “Bingo!”

Local businesses are also joining the festivities, with over 25 shops offering specials and promotions throughout the festival. Full details are listed at townofriverview.ca/warmspecials. 

A special thank you to everyone helping make this year’s Winter Carnival a celebration to remember. From volunteers and staff to supportive local businesses and media partners, the combined effort is bringing the magic of winter to life across the community. With so many events planned, the season promises laughter, fun, and memories for all ages.