Winter festival brings boost to seasonal Cape Breton community

Baddeck residents turn snow banks into appetizing works of art.

The village of Baddeck, N.S., is normally quiet in the middle of winter, but some eye-catching snow sculptures along the main street have caught the attention of many in the area.

“Ours, personally, we did a giant cinnamon roll, a big coffee cup and a big sandwich,” said Americo Pino, owner of The HighWheeler Café, regarding his business’ storefront creations as part of the annual Baddeck Winter Festival.

The festival is not only an excuse to turn snowbanks into something creative but also a celebration of outdoor activities and local history.

“It also happens to take place around the same time [of year] of the first flight in the British Empire, as well as the birthday of Alexander Graham Bell,” Pino added.

The flight of the Silver Dart along Baddeck Bay took place in February 1909, while the inventor of the telephone was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on March 3, 1847, and lived the latter part of his life at Beinn Bhreagh, just outside of Baddeck.

Bell was also a key player in the construction of the Silver Dart and its historic flight.

However, when it comes to present-day snow sculptures, there was also an added element of competition.

“So, there were over 20 sculptures, and they were phenomenal,” said Rosalie Pino, owner of The Outdoor Store on Chebucto Street. “I think ours are pretty good, but we didn’t win!”

The chance to see something eye-catching on the side of the road brought people out of their homes.

“It got the locals out and the local kids that maybe don’t play sports or maybe they’re not going on a winter vacation,” she added.

It also brought a boost to local businesses during the colder months.

“The winter Olympics kind of has everyone in the mood of getting outside and enjoying some winter activities, so in general I imagine there are more people out snowshoeing, skiing and curling,” Americo Pino said.

The winner of the sculpture contest was a giant lobster built in front of the Lynwood Inn as the festival wraps up for another year.

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