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Folk on the Rocks - July 18 to 20, 2025

Kick off your shoes and get ready for a night of dancing in the sand under the midnight sun! This unique music festival will have attendees singing at the top of their lungs to great artists from across the country. You don’t want to miss this folkin’ good time! 

FOTR is one of Canada’s top summertime music and cultural festivals, drawing performers from the NWT, Nunavut and all across Canada for the North’s biggest party under the midnight sun.

Grab your paddle and get out on the water!

Discover Yellowknife from the water with a paddle board adventure in the 'Land of the Midnight Sun.' Rent a paddle board and explore the pristine, northern lakes that surround the city—where calm waters, scenic shorelines, and endless daylight offer an unforgettable way to experience nature. Whether you're drifting along Back Bay or navigating the inlets near Old Town, paddle boarding in Yellowknife is a must-do summer activity for visitors seeking a peaceful connection to the wild beauty of the North.

Head down to downtown to check the northern lights

A common misconception among visitors is that the Aurora Borealis can’t be seen from within the city of Yellowknife due to light pollution. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Many local residents enjoy breathtaking views of the northern lights right from their own windows, and countless visitors have captured stunning photographs of the Aurora from locations well within city limits. Favourite urban viewing spots include Bush Pilot’s Monument, Old Town, Somba K’e Park by City Hall, and the Dettah Ice Road (when open, typically from January to April).

Dogsledding

Dog sledding is still popular in the Northwest Territories, where a good team is highly prized and well cared for. Curl up in a comfortable cariole – an oak toboggan with canvas sides – traditional winter transportation in the North.  Meet the dogs – usually a pretty friendly bunch – and their delightful puppies.  Learn to harness a team, and drive your own team with some beginner instruction.  It’s fun and very good exercise.  Dog team rides vary from half an hour, to half a day or longer.