Arviat, NU

Arviat means “shape of a bowhead whale” in Inuktituk. Its tundra lands are rich in wildlife. The nearby bird sanctuary is where 400,000 snow geese nest each summer. Maguse Rapids provides opportunities to spot caribou, wolves and foxes. And local rivers offer prime fishing for arctic char.

Arviat is known for its skilled carvers and seamstresses. Carvers work with an extremely tough local stone to make pieces unique to Arviat artists. It also has strong musical roots and traditions, hosting an annual music festival.

Calm Air is a strong supporter in Arviat of the JLM Calm Air Cup, bringing communities in the North together. Calm Air flies in teams in Kivalliq region, and even outside of it from Nunavut and Northern Quebec.

Top Attractions:

JLM Calm Air Cup – The John Lindell Memorial (JLM) Calm Air Cup is an annual senior men’s hockey championship hosted in January.

Inuumariit Music Festival – An annual ten-day festival in October showcasing the musical talents of renowned Inuit performers.

McConnell River Migratory Bird Sanctuary – The rich marshes of these wetlands are the home of 250,000 migratory birds, like nesting waterfowl and lesser snow geese.