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Nunavut Day

Join us for a celebration of Inuit culture and history on Nunavut Day, with traditional food, music, and activities that will transport you to the beautiful Arctic region.

Thursday

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJuly 9

OBSERVED INCanada

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYRegional

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the beautiful territory of Nunavut on July 9 with Nunavut Day! This day marks the anniversary of the official establishment of Nunavut as a Canadian territory in 1993. It is a day to honor and recognize the Inuit culture, traditions, and way of life that have been present in this region for thousands of years. From breathtaking landscapes to unique wildlife, Nunavut has so much to offer and this holiday is a perfect opportunity to learn more about it. So let's take a moment to appreciate all that Nunavut has to offer and celebrate its rich heritage on this special day.

TIMELINE

Nunavut Day Timeline

Martin Frobisher's Expedition

English explorer Martin Frobisher visited what is now Nunavut during his search for the Northwest Passage, marking an early contact between Europeans and the Inuit.

Transfer to Canada

The British government transferred the entire territory, now known as the Northwest Territories, to Canada. The region includes the current territory of Nunavut.

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Established

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, an Inuit advocacy organization, was founded. It played a key role in establishing Nunavut.

Plebiscite for Division

A plebiscite took place in Northwest Territories. Majority voted in favor of dividing the territory to create Nunavut.

Nunavut Land Claims Agreement

The Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act and the Nunavut Act were passed, leading to the official establishment of Nunavut as a Canadian territory.

Celebration of First Nunavut Day

Nunavut Day was first celebrated on July 9, commemorating the establishment of the territory, and has since evolved into a wider celebration of Inuit culture and heritage.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Nunavut Day

Explore Inuit culture

Take the opportunity to learn more about Inuit culture and traditions by visiting local museums, attending cultural events, or reading books about Nunavut and its people.

CELEBRATE

Celebrate with traditional foods

Try out some traditional Inuit dishes such as caribou stew or bannock. You can also support local businesses by purchasing food from Inuit-owned restaurants or food stands.

ATTEND

Attend a community event

Many communities in Nunavut organize events and activities to celebrate Nunavut Day. Check your local community calendar or social media pages for any upcoming events that you can attend.

JOIN

Join a traditional game tournament

Traditional Inuit games such as the high kick or the one foot high kick are popular in Nunavut. See if there are any tournaments happening near you and join in on the fun!

DONATE

Donate to a local Inuit organization

Nunavut Day is a great opportunity to give back to the community. Consider donating to a local Inuit organization or charity that supports the well-being and development of Nunavummiut (people of Nunavut).

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Nunavut Day is Important

It promotes understanding and unity

Nunavut Day provides an opportunity for people from all walks of life to come together and learn about each other's cultures and histories. It promotes understanding, respect, and unity among all Canadians, helping to build a stronger and more inclusive society.

It celebrates the creation of Nunavut

Nunavut Day marks the anniversary of the passing of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act in 1993, which officially created the Territory of Nunavut. This day serves as a reminder of the significance and importance of this event in Canadian history.

It celebrates Indigenous culture and traditions

Nunavut Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the Inuit people who have lived off the land for thousands of years. It is a time to recognize and appreciate their unique cultures, languages, and traditions that continue to thrive in Nunavut.