Nickel Days Fest once again took the city of Thompson by storm as it hosted the biggest event of the year. Drawing in around 16,000 attendees over the weekend, the festival surpassed the turnout of the renowned Winterfest, solidifying its status as a highlight of the region's calendar.
The festival, which originated in the early 1960s, has evolved significantly over the years. What started as a modest summer festival organized by the Rotary Club with a parade and small circus transformed into the now-iconic Nickel Days Fest. The pivotal moment came in 1972 when the National King Miner Competition joined forces with the festival, leading to the adoption of the name "Nickel Days." Since then, the event has continued to grow, becoming a magnet for visitors from all corners of Canada.
Nickel Days boasted a diverse array of attractions, including the ever-popular midway with its array of rides and treats, along side other planned events and family games, Stage Shows, The Lion's Club Parade, and concerts featuring Michelle Wright and Don Walker.
The success and seamless execution of Nickel Days can be credited to the hard work and dedication of the large volunteer board. Jenn Thackera, President of Nickel Days, expressed her gratitude to sponsors and volunteers for their invaluable contributions in making the festival a resounding success.
“Nickel days is a great event for Thompson and the surrounding community, we are super thankful to all of our sponsors that help us out and contribute financially and with other services to make sure that this festival is a success, that we have board members that are volunteers that helped to put in lots of their own time to make this something to look forward to”
The Thompson Alliance Club played a significant role in coordinating the Lion's Club Parade, a long-standing tradition associated with Nickel Days. Nick DiVirgilio, Treasurer of the Alliance Club, shared his excitement for the parade's return to its original route after alterations due to construction and regulatory changes in previous years. The parade's theme, "Connecting the North and Celebrating our Heritage," encapsulated the spirit of the event and resonated with participants and spectators alike.
Among the parade's participants was Arctic Beverages, which showcased a brand-new hauling trailer. As the primary distributor of various popular brands such as Pepsi products, Frito Lay, and other snacks across Thompson and Northern Communities, the company plays a vital role in catering to the region's refreshment needs. Sabrina Pilon, Branch Manager of Arctic Beverages, emphasized the company's pervasive presence, stating, "Wherever there's Pepsi, there we are."
Notably, Nickel Days benefited from the support of major sponsors including Manitoba Hydro, Smook Contractors, Liquor & Lotteries, 102.9 CHTM, Vale, NCI, Calm Air, REDS Services, Arctic Beverages, United Rentals, Manitoba Transport, UCN, City of Thompson, Custom Heli, Penn-Co, Jumpstart, Co-Op, Garewine, and NCN.
With its successful run this year, Nickel Days Fest continues to be a cornerstone of Thompson's cultural calendar, bringing together communities and celebrating the rich heritage of the North.
