Arviat (Sep 27/04) - Dogs running around in costumes, sons dressed in identical outfits to their fathers and beat-up old Hondas parading down the streets of Arviat.

It wasn't a circus, it was the community's annual Hamlet Day, celebrating the beginning of Arviat 27 years ago.

"It's to celebrate our coming together as a hamlet. It gives everyone a chance to come together and play games and celebrate the fact that we're from Arviat," said John Main, recreation co-ordinator and organizer of the event.

While winds and nippy weather looked threatening in the morning, residents just threw on more clothes and came out anyway.

While some hamlets celebrate with a barbecue or a similar event, Arviat decided on a day-long series of games and competitions. There was a superhero contest, mini-olympics, best dressed dog contest, Honda parade and of course a Miss Hamlet contest, won by Connie Kalluak.

The day finally ended with a draw for a new Honda and airline tickets, along with the requisite square dance at the community hall.