The UNBSU has concluded its 66th annual winter carnival. The week-long event was one of the first SU events this session to have virtual as well as in-person events, and many students were excited about this.
The carnival, which is traditionally held in January, was postponed to the second week of March this year and tagged the “Winter-ish Carnival”.
Some first-year students said that they were happy for the opportunity to finally meet new people and feel included in the UNB community. Although regular events like the Bridges house Polar Dip did not take place, there were still many other enjoyable activities.
The changes to the Winter Carnival are not permanent, but the SU’s primary goal this year is to keep the campus and the local community safe and healthy.
“We want to provide a fun break for our students and carry on one of UNB’s more enduring traditions,” said the SU.
The carnival took off on Monday, March 8 with an Instagram takeover and a meet and greet event, presided over by the UNB Director of Campus Activities Katelynn Pickel-MacDonald.
The carnival proceeded to day two with skating at the Officers’ Square. Later that evening winter trivia was hosted by Quiz Coconut. The winner of the quiz, which was held on Zoom, took home a prize.
On Wednesday the carnival continued outdoors, taking off from Waggoners Lane on a Winter Wellness Walk with Matt McLean. The night ended with three time slots for drinks at The Cap. Following COVID-19 protocols was very important to the SU, and each time slot had a capacity of 30 people.
On Thursday Crabbe Mountain opened up its ski trails to the first 100 UNB students. The carnival reached a climax on Friday the 12th with a fun and fancy black-tie night at The Cellar, where one lucky attendee won an instax camera and film.
Additionally, NHL watch parties were held at the SUB on Saturday and Sunday.