Inuvik, NT
This vibrant Northern town of about 3,500 people sits 200 km (125 miles) North of the Arctic Circle and about 100 km (62 miles) from the Arctic Ocean. Located by the East Channel of the mighty Mackenzie River, Inuvik was conceived in 1953 as a replacement administrative centre for the flood-prone hamlet of Aklavik. The community was originally called New Aklavik but was renamed Inuvik in 1958. The people of Inuvik are proud of their community's rich culture and will embrace you the moment you arrive.
ANNUAL FESTIVALS
Inuvik is no stranger to having a good time. Various celebrations and festivals take place throughout the year, such as the Great Northern Arts Festival—featuring art and culture from around the circumpolar world, the Sunrise Festival—celebrating the return of the sun in February, and the Muskrat Jamboree—marking the crossing of the Delta Reindeer Herd over the frozen Mackenzie River.
TOWN SITES
There are many interesting sites to visit during a stay in Inuvik. Servicing the spiritual needs of the community are the famous igloo-shaped Our Lady Victoria Church and the northernmost mosque in Canada, nicknamed Little Mosque on the Tundra. A huge greenhouse—converted from old hockey arena—stands in another part of town and is actively used by the entire community.