Iqaluit (Apr 11/05) - There's still time to cast your nominations.

Iqaluit's annual Toonik Tymes festival kicks off on April 18, and so far, not many bids have been made for the event's prestigious title of honourary Toonik.

"We'd like to keep the tradition going, so we need people's help," said Ailsa Lapp from the city's recreation department, who organized the festival with the help of a horde of some 50 volunteers.

The springtime celebration turns 40 this year and will return with all the traditional stand-bys, as well as some new surprises.

Seal hunting and skinning competitions, ice fishing and iglu building will be held on the ice on April 16, organized by the Hunters and Trappers Association.

Fear Factor also returns, which challenged contestants last year to, among other things, eat caribou poop. Word on the street has it that Iqaluit's own superhero, Polar Man, may weigh in for the contest this year.

Lapp wouldn't give any hints what this year's challenges would be. "It's top secret," she said.

Many events will showcase Inuit music this year, beginning with throat singing lessons held from April 13-15 at Joamie school. Youth workshops will be held during the day and adults are encouraged to come join in during the evening.

Trilingual rockers Taiga will play at the opening ceremonies at Nakasuk school on April 18, and an open mike event will also be introduced.

"You don't have to schedule yourself, just come on out," Lapp said.

Other new events include a cross-country skiing demonstration and races for kids on April 23 at Nakasuk school.

City graders won't be used to build the ice road to some events this year because the equipment isn't insured below the high water mark.

But RL Hanson has stepped up to build the ice road and the ice golf course.

"We're thankful for all the community sponsors," Lapp said.