KANGIQLINIQ/RANKIN INLET
The 2012 edition of the Rankin Inlet Christmas Games are being hailed as a big success by the community's recreation co-ordinator.
The annual New Year's Eve fireworks display in Rankin Inlet has become a huge hit with community residents. - photo courtesy of Doug McLarty
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David Clark said there were good turnouts for the vast majority of events during the games, which offered a little something for kids of all ages.
He said even Mother Nature seemed to be in the holiday spirit, as she co-operated with the Christmas Games by providing nice weather for everyone to get around in.
"My staff members and the janitors at the community hall were kept really, really busy during the games and, all in all, they were a good time," said Clark.
"Most of the events were held indoors this year, but, in addition to the dog-team races, we did have a few outside, like the popular snow-sculpture and ice-sculpting contests.
"We gave out a combination of cash and prizes at the events this year.
"We held kids' skating and a special kids' movie on Christmas Eve, and we tried to do some other things to keep them involved with the festivities."
Clark said the recreation department did a good job in having something for everyone, including a special elders' breakfast and some elders' games.
He said the festivities came to an end with a giant fireworks display on New Year's Eve, which is always a big hit with the community.
"This was the third year in a row the hamlet provided the fireworks for a big display on New Year's Eve.
"We had a really good crowd come out to see the show.
"The fireworks are a great way to finish off the Christmas Games for the community."
Clark said setting off the fireworks is also a lot of fun for him and his staff members.
He said none of his staff has received any kind of special training for doing the fireworks show, but that could change in 2013.
"I'm looking into getting some kind of training this year, so we can use bigger fireworks to put on an even more impressive show on New Year's Eve this year.
"We also do a fireworks show during Pakallak Tyme, but we have to do it really late because the sun stays up so long that time of year.
"People enjoy that display, too, but a lot more get to see the show to close the Christmas Games and everyone sure seems to enjoy it."
