The Santa Claus Charity Ski Show is returning to Kearney, bringing Christmas spirit to the community in support of a good cause.
The 10th annual fundraising event takes place Saturday (Nov. 7) at 1 p.m. at Mirror Bay Town Dock on Main Street.
Admission is by cash donation or non-perishable food items, with all proceeds supporting the Burk’s Falls Food Bank.
The show will feature world-class waterskiers, barefooters, wakeboarders, and surprise guests from Canada’s National Waterski Show, along with appearances by Santa Claus and other beloved Christmas characters.
Event organizer Scott Waites said since the event’s inception in 2016, it has evolved into a community tradition that has made a significant impact.
“The best and coolest part of this event is that it organically grows every year,'” Waites said. “It’s 100% profit, there is no fees, everybody donates their time…we’re able to completely unite the community which brings people from all over the province.”
He added that the community support has grown each year, with sponsors, volunteers, and other community members eager to get involved.
“My phone in the last two weeks has rung off the wall with people saying, ‘I want to volunteer and help.’ I’ve even reached out and asked people, and I can honestly say I’ve never got a no,” Waites said. “It shows we can have an impact in our community.”
The day will also include live music and a Christmas parade prior to the show, and a festive vendor market from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kearney Community Centre, featuring crafts, holiday treats, and ski show merchandise.
The Kearney Lion’s Club and Kearney Legion will also be in attendance selling food, with all proceeds going to the food bank.
Waites highlighted the importance of the cause, and the generosity the community continues to show each year.
“The focal point is to pool efforts to help the less fortunate,” Waites said. “It’s a powerful feeling that people are in that high level of engagement. The energy level is contagious.”
Waites said since 2021, the event has raised more than $60,000 and collected over 10,000 pounds of food for the Burk’s Falls Food Bank.
The fundraising goal for this year’s event is set at $35,000.
Donations can also be made online here.
