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SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - A gang of curiously-costumed characters raised a ruckus in a few downtown bars and restaurants last weekend.

The Caribou Divas and Gentlemen collected cash from bar-goers in support of this year's Caribou Carnival. Clad in frilly red can-can costumes and sparkling, sequined jackets, the roving revelers and their retinue created spectacle that attracted lots of attention.

Musicians Jim Taylor, left, and Ron Kent share the stage with Caribou Divas Annette Austin and Christie Anderson during last week's Saturday night kitchen party at the Black Knight. The Divas raised $900 in donations for this year's Caribou Carnival. - photo courtesy of Bob Wilson

"It's an effort to have some colourful fun and raise awareness and money for the carnival," said Lone Sorensen, instigator and diva. "The carnival is a celebration of our little community here. If we celebrate hard enough maybe spring will start arriving soon."

About half a dozen carnival supporters made the rounds of the bars on Friday and Saturday nights, selling pins and charging a donation for instant souvenir photos shot by professional photographer Bob Wilson.

"We raised $900 and we expect to double that this weekend," said Diva Annette Austin.

Although not officially connected with the carnival, members of the carnival's organizing committee appreciate the initiative.

"It's awesome," said carnival co-ordinator Tiffany Gallivan. "The divas are definitely entertaining."

The Caribou Divas and Gentlemen plan to tour the Yellowknife club scene again tonight and Saturday.