Despite uncertainty associated with mild weather, the official start of Iqaluit’s Toonik Tyme spring carnival kicked off on the evening of April 4.
The annual celebration of the spring thaw has come with an extraordinary spring melt this year, which is raising questions relating to the scheduling of snow- and ice-based events.
Temperatures were close to freezing and mud was visible by the Aqsarniit Hotel, where more than 50 people turned out for the festive opening ceremonies.
Elder Alicee Joamie was a force of nature, welcoming everyone, speaking about the history of the event and her life experiences. She also danced with the band.
123Go! is once again responsible for the Toonik Tyme schedule and coordinating events.
There are going to be pauses for adaptation of schedules and translations, so 123!Go is asking the public to have patience, to keep rechecking the event’s website, but to otherwise enjoy the festivities, which run until April 14 and are in their 65th year.
Many of the anticipated and regular events, such as the craft fair, the Elders garbage bag fashion show, the RCMP barbecue, and the races will be taking place, taking into account the safety of the snow and ice for the latter.
Also of great interest was the fashion show from the local sewing society, which displayed their hard work from the past few months of workshops.
Iqaluit-Manirajak MLA Adam Lightstone was presented with a service award for his contributions to the event over the years, although he credited his two children and the real “tooniks” of Toonik Tyme.