Yellowknife (Mar 15/06) - It's going to be a busy weekend for Yellowknifers looking to visit the Caribou Carnival, March 24-26 on Frame Lake.

From tea boiling to carnival queen parades, Caribou Carnival has it all, according to organizers.

"Things are going well. We just got the petting zoo confirmed and met with the architect about the site map," said co-ordinator John Dalton.

The carnival will have fun activities and games for children in the kids tent.

For racing fans, there's the Diavik 150 Canadian Championship Dog Derby and the Ice Worm bike races to look forward to.

The Great Slave Snowmobile Association will also be hosting several events on Frame Lake and Great Slave Lake.

President of the board Don Finnamore is pleased with where carnival planning stands, even though there are a few challenges.

"Unfortunately, the Edmonton clowns can't come up. Maybe next year."

Finnamore said they are still looking for volunteers to help run events on the ice.

Registration for the corporate challenge is under way.

Dalton said he expects many businesses to sign up for the tug-of-war, curling, tea boiling and obstacle course challenges. The deadline to register a team is March 21.

The Yellowknife RCMP, firefighters and Armed Forces are already on the roster representing the uniformed services.

If you'd prefer to sign up for an event at the carnival, be sure to check out the snow stage. Dalton said it will be a prominent attraction this year.

Arm and leg wrestling sign-ups will be available, among other feats of strength. You can also sign up for flour bag tossing and a make-your-own toboggan event.

Organizers in charge of building the snowmobile chutes have surveyed Great Slave Lake.

Construction of the chutes and the main carnival site will begin this week.