For one entire week there is music and laughter in the air as northerners climb out of their ruts and let off steam in one of North America's wackiest winter festivals. The fun and frolics happen indoors as much as out. Main Street in downtown Whitehorse takes on a carnival atmosphere as streets are blocked off for a variety of games, contests and inspired insanity. Business clothes are put away in favour of costumes, even the banks and downtown shops get involved. There are feats of strength and agility like the Flour Packing Contest to challenge men and women.
Dogs also have their own races and pulling contests.
For sled dog enthusiasts there is the Short Track Sled Dog Race, made up of sprint and freight races. Can-Can Dancers, Snowshoe Shufflers and the outrageous Kapital Kickers. At the same time, almost every community in the territory hosts a winter carnival with recreational and competitive sports, entertainment, arts and cultural events. Even the military joins in the fun with Canadian and American aircraft putting on the annual Rendezvous Air Show at Whitehorse Airport. Violators are gleefully paraded through city streets in a jail cell on wheels, much to the delight of onlookers.