Absolute Comedy dinner and show highlights 50th Greely Winter Carnival

For the first time in three years, South Carleton is gearing up for winter carnival season.

Things get underway this weekend as the 50th Greely Winter Carnival takes place Jan. 26-29.

On Thurs., Jan. 26, the carnival kicks off at the Greely Community Centre with a family board game night. Families are welcome, and there will be free coffee and hot chocolate. The canteen in the community centre will also be welcome. The evening begins at 7 p.m.

On Fri., Jan. 27, there will be a Kids Glow Dance from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Kids wearing white and neon will glow in the lights as they bust their favourite moves.

Saturday kicks off with a pancake breakfast prepared and served by the Greely Firefighters. Activities and buskers onsite to entertain the kids. EarlyON will provide a playspace for wee ones so parents with kids under three can enjoy the meal too. The cost is $10 per adult, $7 for kids, and kids under four are free.

At 11 a.m., the Great Arjunia returns to Greely with his magic act. Once a child magical prodigy, Arjunia is now three years older and had a lot of time during lockdowns and quarantines to hone his skills. No ticket is required.

Outside, horse drawn sleigh rides through Andy Shields Park will run from

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

At noon, snowy playtime and the fireside social will begin, and will run until 4 p.m. There will be snow painting and other unstructured winter wonderland snow activities for the kids. Adults can mingle with friends and neighbours around the fire pits, and relax.

From 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., the Absolute Comedy Show with a buffet dinner will be hosted by the Orchardview Wedding and Conference Centre. It is a licensed event, and tickets are $60 and limited to those 19 and older.

The evening’s menu includes hot sliced roast beef, penne marinara, roasted potatoes, hot vegetables, a selection of salads, vegetables/dips, breads, cheeses, crackers and desserts tea/coffee).

Absolute Comedy will be onstage to entertain followed by a local musical performer to close out the night. Bar service is available all evening (beer, wine, spirits).

For those only wanting to watch the comedy show and not have the buffet, tickets are available for $30 for those 19 and over. The doors will open at 8 p.m. with the show beginning at 8:30 p.m.

On Sun., Jan. 29, the Greely Lions Club will host the Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for children, under four are free. EarlyON will provide a playspace for children three and under. There will be activities for kids, and local entertainment on stage.

Snowy playtime and the fireside social will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

From 12:30-1:30 p.m., there will be a special onice event.

From 1:30-2:30 p.m., you can learn to line dance in the community centre. This free event is designed for adults and seniors to learn the basics while having a great time. No need to sign-up. Arrive at Hall B of the Greely Community Centre in your indoor shoes/cowboy boots where dancing starts at 1:00 and 1:30 sharp. (2, 30 minute sessions available).

From 2-8 p.m., you can challenge your friends and neighbours to a Nerf Battle. Pre-pay online to secure your timeslot and save on tickets. Bring your own gun (must take standard darts) and they will provide the battle ground and all the ammo. Spaghetti and canteen treats are for sale during Nerf Battle times. If Nerf is not your thing, come out to skate and then purchase spaghetti, and treats from the canteen. The event is in support of the 742 Air Cadet Squadron.

Close the carnival with an afternoon or evening skate and then come inside to purchase a hearty bowl of spaghetti (pre-pay to save) or treats from the canteen in support of the 742 Air Cadet Squadron.