Finding Your Place

I’m considered a weirdo in this popular resort town. I know there are a few of us around—I’ve met some of you. We don’t mountain bike, ski, go fishing, or golf. I fully understand that people from all over the world come to Fernie to do those four things, and I’m probably missing out, but I came here for Rodney Brink and the small-town lifestyle. 

In Vancouver, I was so busy and focused on making money and paying rent that I even appeared on an episode of the Knowledge Network reality tv show Wild at Heart, where city folks were sent on outdoor adventures to challenge their city brains. Moving to Fernie from Vancouver was an easy choice when Rod introduced me to the community and a slower, yet more fun, way of life. I want to say, “Look at me now!” But the truth is, I’m still not the typical Fernie person who seeks the thrill of speeding down any type of steep terrain. Instead, I have found my own place here.

There’s a whole other world shining brightly in the Elk Valley, where people do things at a different pace and with a different focus. Summer is my favourite season in Fernie because this is the time of year when I want to connect with people a little more, and the opportunities are endless. Fernie has free outdoor concerts every Wednesday, thanks to The Arts Station, and then there’s Wapiti Music Festival, a very popular Canadian music festival—you might have heard of it. Live DJs and musicians perform at various restaurants almost every day of the week, and you can even be the star of the show during karaoke nights at Kodiak Lounge.

Beyond music, there are art gallery shows, heritage walking tours, garden tours, markets, board game nights, book launches, painting outdoors, Tai Chi, book clubs, and workshops through The Arts Station that include beading, plein air painting, weaving, printmaking, and candle making.

Not interested in the arts scene? Let’s float down the river, toss a disc, play pickleball, join the seniors for some cribbage or dominos, or volunteer for an upcoming event. All of the events that happen in town are largely run by volunteers, from Canada Day to Derby, which is a spectacular way to attend an event and contribute to the community at the same time. 

I just want to reassure all those people who don’t understand me, that I’m not bored, especially in the summer. When I am bored, it’s intentional. And kudos to the people who go on adventures on the mountains or the river and also attend local events, workshops, or evenings in the gardens of Bramasole. There are many ways to enjoy this town in the mountains.