Some energetic Yellowknifers welcomed the New Year with dance moves, thanks to the Multicultural Community of Yellowknife.
The group hosted its second Multicultural New Year’s Eve celebration at the Chateau Nova Hotel’s Caribou meeting room on Sunday night.
“The idea of the event emerged when we realized that they aren’t really any events on New Year’s Eve in town that let the people in our community celebrate that night the same way they do in their home country or down south,” said Mario Nirinason, spokesperson for the Multicultural Community of Yellowknife.
He added that the goal was to ensure that Yellowknifers — including those from elsewhere who found themselves in the city during the holiday season — had access to a high-quality venue, delicious food, an entertaining show and lively music to dance their way into 2024.
With increased support from various local organizations and businesses, the event was able to adopt a “gala-like” atmosphere at a more affordable price, Nirinason noted.
The number of participants rose as well, reaching 180 — 220 including performers and volunteers — compared to 110 at the first edition last year.
The event was further enhanced by performances by talented local artists and a buffet, which was not available at the previous event. In a bid to accommodate those who were unable to purchase their tickets in advance but wished to join their friends or relatives at the event, a walk-in option was available from 11 p.m.
“All of that was possible because we had the support, once again, of the community, and I hope you enjoyed the event (Sunday) night as many did,” said Nirinason.
One of the performers was Jonel Louis-Jean from Haiti, who has been in Yellowknife for seven years. He sang a mix of French and English songs, including a duet with Tanya Snow, a singer from Nunavut who has resided in the NWT capital for 30 years.
The duo performed ‘Shallow’ by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper from the movie ‘A Star Is Born.’ They said they were ready to give something great to the audience.
“I think it’s a good moment and the last of the year, so it’s a good idea to put people together to celebrate the end of the year,” said Louis-Jean.
Snow said she felt inspired and empowered by singing with Louis-Jean.
“A lot of people are shy to sing. But I think people should not be shy and they should try and sing if they feel they can,” she said.
Event participant Asureya Luyonbo, who hails from Uganda, said she enjoyed the night’s festivities and felt more connected to her new home in Yellowknife.
“It’s really beautiful. It’s where you come and try to forget all the trouble,” she said. “It’s more of getting to know your community, which I find we need it now because of everything that happened prior.”