(Editor’s note: we lost this story earlier in the site when our web team’s server was hacked. We are reprinting it now. The carnival kicked off last night, and we were there, but lots going on today and tomorrow)

FITZROY HARBOUR – The Harbourites are ready to celebrate winter this week the only way they know how – with a carnival.

The annual Fitzroy Harbour Winter Carnival runs from Thursday, Feb. 20 to Saturday, Feb. 22 and features fun for everyone.

The Fitzroy Winter Carnival kicks off Thursday night with a chili dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. For $6 ($4 per child 12 and under) hungry participants get a bowl of chili, bun, Caesar salad and desert. Follow that up with the annual Country versus City Pond Hockey Game.

“City of Ottawa workers take on the country boys of Fitzroy Harbour,” the Fitzroy Harbour Community Association released in a statement.

Friday night is Family Fun Night. There is a skating party and organizers recommend you wear your favourite hockey jersey. There will also be an outdoor bonfire.

Friday is also the night of the annual Dan and Carole’s Trivia Night. Registrations starts at 7:15 p.m. with trivia starting at 8 p.m. “sharp.”

The trivia contest involves teams of six competing in a night of trivia. The cost is $6 per team – bring pens and paper.

Saturday is going to be huge. The West Carleton Outdoor Hockey League will be taking over the ODR all morning with regular season action. Pancake breakfast will be in the from 8 to 11 a.m. $6 for adults, $4 for 12 and under. The event is a fundraiser, and hosted by, the Arnprior Wrestling Club.

From noon to 2 p.m. the ODR is open for family skating. From 2 to 5 p.m. is shinny time.

“Come and throw your sticks on the ice,” organizers said. “Remember kids, bring your helmets to participate in events on the ice.”

From 5 to 9 p.m. enjoy a drink and some live music as Wilson and Declourt entertain. There will also be food available.