Yellowknifers marked the beginning of 2024’s festive season at Thursday’s switch-on of holidays lights at City Hall and the Legislative Assembly.
The event aligned with Winter Lights Across Canada, an initiative led by the federal government where landmarks across the country are illuminated.
Attendees gathered to watch the lights turn on at City Hall and around Somba K’e Park before making their way to the Legislative Assembly, where Santa Claus made a special appearance.
Attendees made their way to Somba K’e Park from City Hall to watch the switching-on of the holiday lights. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
“The place looks beautiful when it’s lit up,” said Diane Baldwin, right. Local artist Walt Humphries, left, said the couple attend the event every year. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Courtney Fisher and Joshua Adams are celebrating their baby Khalon’s first Christmas. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Folks were delighted to see the large holiday tree lit up in the Somba K’e Civic Plaza. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Megan Williston poses in front of holiday trees decorated by kindergarteners from Yellowknife, Ndılǫ and Dettah. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Alinna Heron and grandmother Cynthia James await the evening’s special guest. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Santa Claus makes his grand entrance at the legislature. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
A young attendee tests the authenticity of Santa’s beard. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
High-fives were in large supply. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
Young Alinna was pleased to finally get an audience with Santa. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
“It’s just a good family event,” said Chris Pyke while holding baby Arlo. Pyke said it was their first time attending the celebrations. He and his partner said they thought their other son, Jack, would enjoy getting to meet Santa, but he was instead a little “freaked out” by the man in the big red suit. Claire McFarlane/Cabin Radio
