An Ottawa Christmas

Ottawamiut will turn out in great numbers this Saturday for the annual Christmas party organized by Tungasuvvingat Inuit, Ontario’s service organization for Inuit.

More than 600 Inuit of all ages are expected at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall at 151 Laurier St. E. in Ottawa, where the festivities start at 12 noon and continue until 4 p.m.

In store, said Tracy Brown from TI, are games, Arctic sport demonstrations, music and dancing as well as door prizes and presents for the kids from Santa.

The meal is a potluck although TI provides roast turkeys and country foods from Nunavut.

Earlier this month, TI kicked off its holiday celebrations with its annual family photo sessions, provided to members free-of-charge with the help of a volunteer professional photographer.

“Families come to TI where we have a Christmas background set up as well as Inuit and sealskin clothing they can wear,” Brown said. “It’s very popular.”

The TI offices at 118 Empress Ave. will be closed from Dec. 20 to Jan. 3, but will be open for drop-ins from Dec. 20-23 and Dec. 27-30 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Brown said country food will be available as a special treat during those afternoons.