Aklavik welcomed spring last weekend with its 75th annual Mad Trapper Rendezvous, also known as its spring carnival or jamboree.
Sebastian Andrews was crowned king of the Aklavik Mad Trapper Rendezvous March 29. The runner up was Courtney Charlie. Ashton Semple took third place, and Terilyn Storr came in fourth place in the King or Queen contest.
Samantha McKay/NNSL photo
Manny Arey, one of the jamboree's organizers, said the event has always provided a chance for people in the community to gather every year.
"Long ago, they used to live in the bush, and they'd come back to town, so before they headed back out for spring, they'd have the jamboree," said Arey. "They'd meet their family and friends before they'd go out for a long spring. It's a time for everyone to get together, and for family and friends to meet."
Samantha McKay/NNSL photo
Arey said his favourite part of the jamboree is seeing everyone come together with smiles on their faces.
"Seeing the happy faces on the people, and seeing everyone join in events and come together is important," said Arey. "Seeing everyone work together and gather together is great."
Arey also noted that the jamboree is called the Mad Trapper Rendezvous because the mad trapper is buried in Aklavik.
A feast was held on Thursday at the opening ceremony, along with the crowning ceremony and guest speakers from the community.
Friday's events included adults and kids skidoo races and bingo. Saturday saw games at the river site such as a five-legged race and nail driving, and a talent show in the evening.
Sunday's events were postponed until Monday due to bad weather, Arey noted.
Monday's events included an ice chiseling contest and skidoo races. A closing ceremony took place on Tuesday.
The next jamboree in the Beaufort Delta will be the Peel River Jamboree April 12-15.