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Celebrating the end of polar nights after 30 days of darkness, the annual Inuvik Sunrise Festival will return on Friday, January 9.
“This is the highlight of our winter,” said Amanda Szedo, events coordinator for the Town of Inuvik. “It kicks away a lot of those January blues.”
Inuvik’s first official sunrise of 2026 was scheduled for Tuesday, January 6 at 1:42pm, before setting at 2:20pm.
The three-day festival marking the Sun’s return includes a long list of free activities open to everyone, Szedo said.
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Celebrations begins on Friday evening with a glow-in-the-dark skate and Taste of Inuvik sampler at the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex, where attendees can enjoy free bannock, chili and donuts.
The festival’s second day will include an Arctic market featuring more than 20 local artists and craft makers, where coffee, tea and hot cocoa will be served.
Bambi Amos, Steve Cockney and Dustin Smith will lead crafting workshops on Saturday that will be announced later this week, Szedo said.
Cockney will lead a traditional yo-yo making workshop. “That is a big hit, and just hearing Steve talk about his involvement in the community over the years is a lot of fun, too,” said Szedo.
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While the workshops are free and materials are provided, registration online or by phone will be required due to limited capacity. Those interested in the workshops can keep an eye on the festival’s Facebook page for details.
A bonfire and fireworks over Twin Lakes will conclude the second day of the festival.
A pancake breakfast will kick off the final day of the celebration. Szedo said attendees can also expect eggs, bacon and sausage.
The meal will be followed by a storytelling booth where Elders can share tales from the region or from their lives. Those interested in speaking can sign up at the festival’s Inuvik Native Band Office tent.
A snowshoe race will take place on Sunday where competitors can win cash prizes and airline tickets, Szedo said.
More: See the full range of events taking place
The festival is made possible due to support from sponsors, Szedo said.
“Many people don’t realize the bulk of the funding comes from our sponsors, and we’re so grateful to have them,” Szedo said.
