Snowking Winter Festival - The Festival

The Festival

It has become tradition that the castle's opening night is celebrated with a fireworks display. As many as 2,000 people venture out onto the ice to watch the show. Snowking addresses his subjects, welcoming them to another castle season.

Throughout the month of March, the castle hosts a film night, children's plays on the weekends, and live music most Friday and Saturday nights. It also host puppet shows and hockey games. Films are projected directly onto the snow walls. Plays are written and produced in Yellowknife. Musical events feature both local and visiting artists, providing a new venue for Yellowknifers, and an opportunity to hear musicians from elsewhere. The "Block 1,000 Rock and Roll Party" is an example. Tuesday nights have become "jam nights," an opportunity for anybody to take the stage and perform in the castle. Normally one night is reserved for the "Royal Rave", which is usually a multimedia performance featuring several DJs.

The highlight of the season is Snowking's Royal Ball, which is always a fiddle dance. Usually there are a number of talented fiddle players, and, if possible, a caller.

In the past, some events have attracted up to 200 guests. Popular performers have included Leela Gilday and Indio Saravanja and many others.

As of 2009, the castle has hosted nine weddings, with three more are booked for 2010. The first wedding was held during the 2000 festival.

In the past there has been a "Snowtel" - a room of the castle that is intended for visitors to stay overnight - but demand is minimal, and this feature is no longer built.

Usually the castle season ends with another display of fireworks.