Fernie’s favourite winter legend is back – and this year, the Griz Most Wanted program is leveling up! In 2026, we’re sharpening our fundraising focus, rallying volunteers, and inviting four incredible community groups to take part in Fernie’s most spirited winter tradition. This is your chance to make a real impact, showcase your love for Fernie, and help power the heart of the Griz Days Winter Festival – March 6–8, 2026.
Each selected community group will take on an essential festival role while fundraising for their own cause.
What we provide:
1. Personalized Fundraising Page
A dedicated online fundraising portal hosted through the official Griz Most Wanted platform — easy, secure, and shareable for all supporters.
2. Marketing & Promotion Support
Our Griz Days team will highlight your story, promote your cause, and celebrate your fundraising milestones across our social media and event channels.
3. Donation Matching
To boost your efforts, Griz Days will match up to $500 in funds raised per group. Every donation counts – and we’ll help double your community’s impact.
Each group must provide a minimum of 10 volunteers and take the lead in one of the following festival areas:
Beer Gardens — Saturday, March 7
Serving It Right required for all serving volunteers
Security Support — Saturday, March 7
Downtown Games — Saturday, March 7
Set-Up & Tear-Down Crew – March 7 & 8
December 2025 – Applications Open
Call for community group submissions via social and email outreach.
January 2026 – Groups Selected
Teams meet with marketing for photos, story development & their famous “Most Wanted” public arrest plan.
January 2026 – The Big Reveal
Announcing the official Griz Most Wanted 2026 groups!
February 1, 2026 – Fundraising Launch
Online platforms go live. Public “arrests” begin.
Let the friendly competition start!
March 6–8, 2026 – Griz Days Festival Weekend
On-site fundraising & community engagement throughout the festival.
March 8, 2026 – Fundraising Closes
Final totals calculated. Funds distributed. Winners celebrated!
This is more than a fundraiser – it’s a community challenge, a celebration of local spirit, and a chance to leave your mark on Fernie’s biggest event of the year!