Fauquier, BC: Canada Day Canoe Jousting
Each year, as Canada Day draws near, the residents of Fauquier start getting prepared. They dust off their canoes, dig out their pool noodles and life jackets; they order fireworks and food; and start picking out costumes for their pets.
by Darci Friesen
Though the village of Fauquier (pronounced 'Folkier') may only boast a population of 300 residents, come Canada Day, they definitely know how to join together and celebrate. Located on Lower Arrow Lake, on the eastern side of the Needles Ferry Terminal, this township didn't officially exist until the 1960's, but has all that a visitor/traveller may require – and more. Nestled in between the Selkirk Mountains to the east, and the Monashee Mountains to the west, this lakeside community is not only surrounded by resplendent beauty and home to the fantastic Tukaluk Campground, it is also where you will find an amazing Canada Day tradition.
Each year, as Canada Day draws near, the residents of Fauquier start getting prepared. They dust off their canoes, dig out their pool noodles and life jackets; they order fireworks and food; and start picking out costumes for their pets. As they get ready for their annual event- which will include their famous home cooked meals, door prizes and 50/50 draws, fireworks and a dance – what they're really anticipating are the two main events: the pet show and the canoe jousting.
With two competitors per canoe - each proudly holding their terribly dangerous, and extremely vicious, pool noodles – it is time to joust. Some will win, some will get wet – but all will have to live with the knowledge that they were once canoe jousters.
Whether it be a cat or a cow, a puppy or a pony; no animal is too big or too tiny to be outfitted in a costume and entered into the pet show. With moments of hilarity and hairballs, this event really needs to be witnessed to be believed.
If you're looking for a great place to go for Canada Day - a place that will please the entire family - Fauquier is your destination. Your place to camp: the Tukaluk Campground. With sites for tenters and RV'ers, this family owned and run campground is perfectly located for all of your Canada Day celebrations.
For more information on Fauquier - or their Canada Day events - contact Judy at (250) 269-7234. To make your camping reservations, contact Guy or Gloria at the Tukaluk Campground, at (250) 269-7355.
Tukaluk Campground:
Get back to nature at this rustic camping and RV park on Fauquier Creek, cradled by cedars. The property is just a five minute walk to a golf course, restaurant and general store. Ten minutes on foot will take you to a private, sandy beach.
7955 Hwy 6, | Fauquier, BC
(250) 269-7355
Location: Fauquier is located on Highway 6, on the eastern shore of Arrow Lake in the Kootenays. It is the eastern terminal of the Arrow Lake ferry, that connects with Needles, across the lake.
Ferry Route: Car and passenger service across the Lower Arrow Lake, is about 59 kilometres south of Nakusp on Highway 6, between Fauquier and Needles. The crossing time is five minutes, and the ferry capacity is 30 vehicles/144 passengers.