Iqaluit
Iqaluit is the capital and largest community of Nunavut, Canada’s newest and northernmost territory. Located on Baffin Island at the head of Frobisher Bay, Iqaluit is a centre for Inuit governance, Arctic culture, and modern-day life in the North.
Quick Facts
- Territory: Nunavut
- Population: ~7,500
- Official Languages: Inuktitut, Inuinnaqtun, English, and French
- Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
- Demonym: Iqalummiuq (Inuktitut), Iqaluit resident
History
Iqaluit, originally known as Frobisher Bay, was renamed in 1987 to reflect its Inuktitut name meaning “place of many fish.” The area has been inhabited by the Inuit for thousands of years.
It became the capital of Nunavut in 1999 when the territory was officially established, separating from the Northwest Territories.
Economy
Iqaluit’s economy is driven by:
- Government and public services
- Transportation and logistics
- Construction and housing
- Cultural tourism and local crafts
- Inuit organizations and development corporations
Major Attractions
- Legislative Assembly of Nunavut
- Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum – Inuit art and culture
- Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre
- Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park – hiking, wildlife, and archaeology
- Inuit-owned galleries and studios showcasing soapstone carvings and prints
- Arctic Winter Games (when hosted)
Culture and Events
Iqaluit is a vibrant centre of Inuit culture, where traditional knowledge meets modern life. Events include:
- Toonik Tyme – spring festival celebrating Inuit traditions
- Alianait Arts Festival – music and performance arts
- National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations
- Northern Lights viewing and storytelling gatherings
Education
- Nunavut Arctic College – primary institution for post-secondary education and adult learning in the territory
- Bilingual education offered in English and Inuktitut
Neighborhoods
- Apex – a historic Inuit community nearby
- Happy Valley
- Tundra Valley
- Lower Base and Upper Base
- Road to Nowhere (a famously named district)
Transportation
Iqaluit is not connected to the rest of Canada by road. All goods and people must arrive by air or seasonal sea lift. Iqaluit Airport (YFB) is the main gateway and offers regular flights to Ottawa, Montreal, and other northern communities.
Local transportation includes taxis and snowmobiles; few people own cars.
Did You Know?
- Iqaluit has no traffic lights and only a few paved roads.
- Despite its small size, it serves as the political and economic centre of the entire territory of Nunavut.
- The city lies just south of the Arctic Circle and experiences polar twilight and extended daylight in summer.