Clinton’s Community Spirit Recognized at the Excellence in Gold Country Awards
The Gold Country region handed out its annual awards this week, and Clinton had a heartwarming presence on the list. Several local names — some familiar, some newer — were recognized for the work they do to make our community feel welcoming to residents and visitors alike.
These awards don’t show up out of nowhere. They’re the result of early mornings, long days, and the sort of steady effort that makes Clinton feel like Clinton.
Spirit of Clinton Volunteers — Winner, Community Spirit in Tourism
If you’ve ever stopped by a Clinton event — Music in the Park, Canada Day, the Christmas celebrations — you’ve seen the Spirit of Clinton volunteers in action. They’re the folks hauling tables, wrangling extension cords, handing out programs, or simply being that friendly face newcomers meet first.
This year, they received the Winner award for Community Spirit in Tourism, and it couldn’t be more fitting. Clinton runs on volunteers, and this group embodies what makes our town feel alive.
Clinton’s Canco — Honourable Mention, Visitor Essentials
For many people driving the Cariboo Highway, their first interaction with Clinton is Canco. Maybe they stop for fuel. Maybe they’re grabbing something quick before heading up the valley. And for locals, it’s the go-to stop for the everyday things we all run out of.
That reliability earned Canco an Honourable Mention in the Visitor Essentials category. It’s a quiet kind of service, but it makes a real difference.
Clinton May Ball & Rodeo — Honourable Mention, Best Event or Festival
The May Ball & Rodeo is one of the longest-running traditions in the region. It brings ranch families, young riders, longtime residents, and curious travellers together. It’s dusty, colourful, and full of the kind of small moments that make good stories on the drive home.
This year, it earned an Honourable Mention as one of the region’s top festivals.
Hunnies Market — Honourable Mention, Weekly Market Excellence
Markets thrive on personality, and Hunnies Market has plenty. It’s a weekly gathering spot with local makers, handmade goods, and that neighbourly buzz that keeps people staying longer than they planned.
The market’s warm atmosphere earned it an Honourable Mention in Weekly Market Excellence.
Bubbles’ Blossom Design — Honourable Mention, Top Visitor-Friendly Shop
Walk into Bubbles’ Blossom Design and you’re greeted with colour, creativity, and the feeling that someone genuinely loves what they do. It’s the kind of shop visitors remember — not because it’s fancy, but because it feels personal.
Its commitment to friendly service and thoughtful design earned an Honourable Mention this year.
Why These Awards Matter
Every recognition Clinton received this year points to the same truth: our community thrives because people care. They care about how the town looks. They care about the events we host. They care about how visitors feel when they stop in for the first time.
These awards reflect that pride — and they help shine a little more light on Clinton as a place worth exploring.
A place Where History Meets Adventure.
