Easter In The Arctic

One of the many difference between life in a southern Canadian community and life in an Inuit community is how we celebrate events like Easter.

In the South Easter is usually a small family event that may include extended family, possibly a few close friends, and a traditional meal of roast ham.

By contrast, in the majority of Arctic communities Easter is a ”whole community” event where there are games, contests, dances, and community feasts of fresh caribou, ptarmigan, fish, and, if they have arrived from the south, fresh goose.

I am home in Kuujjuaq for Easter week-end where the Ivvakak dog team race will soon be finishing up at Stewart Lake. There is a fishing contest planned for the week-end, and there will be outside games and activities for adults and kids (including a game where people will try and collect the most Arctic Hare poop). There will also be a big community feast and a community dance before the week-end is over.

Regardless of where you are over the holiday, or what you are planning to do, I wish you a safe week-end, and a happy Easter.