Thursday, January 3, 2013

Jasper in January promises fun, indoors and out



By Stephen A. Nelson

Those who love it, love it a lot.

And for those who love winter in the great outdoors -- there's a lot to love at Jasper in January, Alberta's answer to Quebec's Winter Carnival and Winnipeg's Festival du Voyageur.

"What's exciting about the Jasper in January festival is that it offers visitors a diverse array of events and activities that both couples and families can take part in and enjoy," says Anastasia Martin-Stilwell at Tourism Jasper. "It's really the perfect way to kick off the new year and head to Jasper for a little authentic Rocky Mountain fun."

The festival is a two-week showcase for everything that's great about the Rockies in winter.
This is where outdoor adventure meets indoor arts and culture. It's a party in the park that's become Western Canada's premiere winter festival.

It began more humbly, 24 years ago, on the silver anniversary of Marmot Basin -- the ski resort that for many defines the Jasper experience.

The ski hill decided to celebrate its marquee anniversary with a party that everyone could enjoy.
It was one heck of a party and a great success -- so they decided to make Jasper in January an annual celebration.

These days, Marmot Basin -- along with hotels, restaurants and retailers -- still offers attractive discounts to those who want to join the fun. And the whole community gets involved to roll out the red carpet for visitors.

"Whether you're interested in untamed outdoor adventure -- like skiing, snowshoeing, polar dipping, moonlight skates and the sights and sounds of a bustling family street party -- or you're looking more for eclectic indoor pursuits ... Jasper in January really provides one of Western Canada's premiere winter-festival experiences that everyone is sure to enjoy." 



The original story in The Edmonton Journal


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