Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is welcoming locals from Canal Flats to Brisco for an annual party on the slopes where they can ski and swim for a toonie.

“We try to get as many people out as possible,” said Peter Harding, who manages the resort’s ski area.

“It’s our way of showing our appreciation to the local market that’s supported the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort over the years through buying swim passes, season passes, golfing, using our food and beverage facilities, (and generally) supporting our company.”

A DJ will be cranking the tunes, while locals enjoy s’mores and cotton candy and while children participate in special activities. For an extra toonie, locals will also get to try out the tube park for an hour.

“A lot of people have a lot of fun,” Mr. Harding said. “It ends up just being a big social for the day.”

Mr. Harding wants all locals to have the opportunity to enjoy the resort’s amenities no matter their financial situation and said that Toonie Day makes skiing an option for those on tight budgets.

“A lot of people can’t afford a season pass for the year… so it’s an opportunity for them to come up,” he said.

Mr. Harding expects to see 300 to 400 locals come out for Toonie Day and is looking forward to seeing all the familiar Valley faces.

“It’s fun to see all the locals out,” he said. “We’ve had people come up who had to blow the dust off their skis because they hadn’t skied in years.”

Toonie Day will take place on Saturday, January 19th. The hill will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. as residents trade their toonies for a day of fun. Locals will need to bring ID that shows their address.