Spring fever hits Iqaluit Monday

Forget the warm, sunny weather – Iqalungmiut know spring is here when Toonik Tyme comes around.

Open ceremonies start at Nakasuk School on Monday evening, with a performance by Nunavik’s award-winning musical duo, Taima. But events start well before Monday night.

The seal hunting and seal skinning contests take place tomorrow. The Francophone Centre will also host a Sugar Shack, and a sneak preview Taima performance on Saturday.

On Sunday, the Rotary Club hosts a Toonik Tyme Brunch at Inuksuk High School. That evening, Amarok HTO sponsors a community feast at the Parish Hall.

Things get underway on Monday, April 19, with elders bingo, a sliding party, outdoor games, a scavenger hunt, and an evening fashion show at Nakasuk School, or, if you prefer, open mic night at the Parish Hall.

Fear Factor returns on Wednesday night, with more gruesome games for the brave – still top secret.

Next Thursday is the fishing derby, uphill climb, ice carving contest, and Northern Band night.

Things continue into next weekend with a pancake breakfast, dog team races, cross-country ski races, a craft fair, a magic show, an igloo building contest and a tea and bannock making contest all planned for Saturday.

Saturday will also be the closing ceremonies at Nakasuk School, and the Gigantic Toonik Draw.

The City of Iqaluit has opted out of the snowmobile drag races this year, saying that their insurance does not cover equipment or staff beyond the high water mark. But some events will take place on the sea ice, thanks to RL Hanson, which has volunteered to build an ice road and ice golf course.

A complete schedule is available at the following locations: City Hall, the old arena, the recreation office, the swimming pool, Northmart, Arctic Ventures, Frobisher Inn, Discovery Lodge, Navigator Inn, Fantasy Palace, Grind and Brew and Nunavut Tourism.