Nunavut Day

Nunavut Day is celebrated annually on July 9 and is a public holiday in Nunavut, Canada. This day commemorates the passing of two Nunavut land claims agreements, marking the territory’s secession from the Northwest Territories and its establishment as a distinct region within Canada. Most schools and businesses in Nunavut are closed on this day.

History

The Northwest Territories were originally established in 1870 and once included what are now the provinces of Manitoba, Quebec, Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon. In 1976, land claims negotiations began with the Canadian government, focusing on the possible division of the Northwest Territories. On April 14, 1982, the majority of residents voted in favor of separation in a public referendum.

Nunavut officially became a separate territory on April 1, 1999. However, Nunavut Day was first celebrated in 2000 and later moved to July 9 to mark the date when the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act and the Nunavut Act were passed by the Canadian Parliament in 1993.

Interesting Facts

• In 2019, Nunavut had a population of approximately 38,780 people, with around 16,400 employed.
• Nunavut is the largest territory in Canada, covering about 808,185 square miles.
• Roughly 75% of the world’s narwhal population migrates through Nunavut’s shallow bays.
• Musk ox meat burgers are considered a traditional food in the region.

How to Take Part

Nunavut celebrates this holiday with community events, including pancake breakfasts, barbecues, traditional Inuit games, and cultural dances. Local leaders often use the occasion to announce economic and cultural development initiatives. Cultural and academic grant winners are also recognized as part of the festivities.

When is Nunavut Day in 2025?

Nunavut Day is observed on July 9 each year.

Observations