Nunavut and Nunavik gear up for Canada Day

Volunteers in Iqaluit give away Canadian flags at the AWG arena on Canada Day 2008. Communities across Nunavut and Nunavik will be celebrate Canada Day July 1 with local festivities. (FILE PHOTO)

Canada turns 144 years old July 1.

And residents of Nunavut and Nunavik will be celebrating Friday, with festivities planned in most communities.

Iqaluit residents can enjoy a full day of Canada Day events, starting with a pancake breakfast at 9:00 a.m. at the AWG arena.

At noon, a Canada Day parade leaves the arena towards Nakasuk school, where an afternoon of food, music, square-dancing and children’s activities kicks off under the circus tent as part of the Alianait arts festival.

Alianait’s evening Canada Day concert features the Jerry Cans, Ellen Hamilton and Nuvu, and Beatrice Deer.

In Cambridge Bay, children’s activities get started at 10 a.m. behind the high school, followed by a 1:00 p.m. treasure hunt at the community hall.

Sports fans can participate in a golf, baseball or basketball tournaments during the afternoon, while the pool is offering free entry until 5 p.m.

Then residents can fill up at a free barbecue on the ball field behind the high school, and head over to the community hall for musical celebration with throat-singers and drum dancers.

In Kuujjuaq, a Canada Day parade will leave from the community’s fire hall at 10:30 a.m. and residents are invited to participate with their own vehicles.

Prizes will be awarded to the best-decorated bikes, Hondas and vehicles.

During the afternoon, the city will host foot, bike and canoe races. Participants can also compete in a fishing contest, a contest for the best decorated cake or a rock-throwing competition – all with cash prizes for the winners.

In the evening, there’ll be a balloon drop on the beach were residents can win more prizes, including Air Inuit tickets.

A fireworks display starts at 11 p.m.

Contact the municipal office in your community for more information.