Winter in the northern part of Canada brings long periods of darkness, with some places experiencing only a few hours of twilight-like daylight each day, so it makes sense that one of the northernmost communities in the Northwest Territories is excited to welcome the first sunrise of the year.
Inuvik enjoys approximately 56 days of 24-hour daylight from late June to early August and has about 30 days without sunlight from December to early January.
After a month of no sunrise or sunset, the town throws a huge party – the unique and fun Inuvik Sunrise Festival.
This year (2026), the celebration will take place from January 9 to 11.
Of course, the party is not just for locals; there are lots of opportunities for visitors to join in. Flights are available with Canadian North Airlines, and hotel rooms are available in the town of Inuvik.
Festivities begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Friday with a Glow-in-the-Dark Skate, followed by the Taste of Inuvik.
There is plenty to keep you busy during the three-day festival, and those who venture the 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle for this event will have an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Please spend some time tasting all the yummy local foods, or catch the incredible Inuvik drummers and dancers at one of their shows. Take the time to enjoy the dances by the special guests, accompanied by songs in Inuvialuktun. These songs and dancing recount legends, stories and traditions of the area.
The artisan market is an easy place to purchase beautiful handicrafts and speak to talented artists. Cultural workshops, and many indoor and outdoor activities fill the days. There is a story-telling tent, family skating, snow carving, and even a boardwalk area to walk in with a beautiful light display. Saturday evening features a large fireworks display and the chance to gather by a bonfire. Of course, you may want to step away to potentially enjoy some Aurora Borealis if the conditions are right.
Inuvik Sunrise Festival is the perfect opportunity to head north to the Arctic to celebrate the sun and all the sunrise means to the communities there.
Inuvik Sunrise Festival
What:
After nearly 30 days of Polar Night and no official sunrise, the Town of Inuvik gathers yearly to celebrate the sun’s return. Events include local food, dance, music, artisan markets, cultural workshops, snow yoga, indoor & outdoor family activities, and a large fireworks display on Saturday night.
When: January 9 to 11, 2026
Where: Various Venues, Town of Inuvik, Northwest Territories
For more information and a schedule of events, visit the Town of Inuvik website or the Facebook page for the Inuvik Sunrise Festival.