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IQALUIT - Spring will be celebrated in the territorial capital this month. Since 1965, residents have honoured the return of warmth and sunlight with Toonik Tyme, a city-wide festival filled with music, art, games and food for all ages.

"There's a little bit of everything in our lineup this year," said coordinator Crystal Jones.

Throatsingers Emily Hanson, left, and Diane Pfeifer perform during the opening ceremonies at last year’s Toonik Tyme. - photo courtesy of Crystal Jones

The Toonik Central tent in the Nakasuk parking lot forms the festival's nerve centre from April 15 to 20. That is the place to go for event information, ski rentals, hot chocolate and to view the variety of new local art for sale. Several of the week's events will be held on that site, as well, such as the tea and bannock contest on April 17 and the outdoor games on April 18.

The Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum hosts a jewelry exhibit featuring new work by the students at Nunavut Arctic College from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on April 17. The event will include bingos, a puppet show, dog sled races, an iglu-building contest and lots of opportunities for outdoor skating.

One of the most popular events in recent years is the Fear Factor competition, scheduled for 6 p.m. on April 16 in the AWG Complex.

Based on the NBC reality game show, the event pits competitors against one another in a variety of offbeat challenges.

"It's an exciting event," Jones said. "We draw six contestants to participate and they get to win an airline ticket to Ottawa from Canadian North and $3,000 cash," Jones said. "Although they have to eat a lot of disgusting things and do some challenging stuff."

In the past, blood-soaked intestines have appeared on the menu. For everyone else, there is often lots of fresh stew, seal, fish, bannock, tea and other tasty fare to be shared around town.

"Toonik time likes to feature up and coming artists and this year is no different," Jones said.

The festival is hosting a performance by Cape Breton singer and Canadian Idol runner-up finalist, Mitch MacDonald.

Opening ceremonies begin at 7 p.m. on April 15 in the AWG Complex.