The City of Yellowknife acknowledges that we are located in Chief Drygeese territory. From time immemorial, it has been and is the traditional land of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. We respect the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Metis, Inuit, and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
Situated on the Northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife is the capital of the Northwest Territories, Canada. Founded in 1934, the city is located in the traditional territory of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation who founded the nearby community of Dettah in the early 1930s.
The city of Yellowknife has its origins in gold mining and was designated as territorial capital in 1967. Since then the city has grown to around 20,000 residents and has become a cultural, economic and government services hub for the territory. Diamonds were discovered in the area in 1991, and with the founding of three operating diamond mines within short flights of Yellowknife, the city is once again getting in touch with its mining roots. Tourism, transportation, and communications are other significant Yellowknife industries. The Government of the Northwest Territories has released public information regarding arsenic in the environment around Yellowknife as a result of past mining activities.
With its modern amenities and small town feel, Yellowknife has a number of interesting attractions, including the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, numerous walking trails, and the northern lights (aurora borealis), which are best seen between late August and mid-April.
The city hosts a number of events, including the Frostbite 45 ski, the Diavik 150 Canadian Championship Dog Derby, and the SnowKing Winter Festival, which involves the construction of a snow castle on Great Slave Lake, where daily festivities include live music and children's programs. And every summer since 1980, Yellowknife has held Folk on the Rocks, an outdoor music festival featuring local, national and international musicians.
For more information check our Community Profile.
The Government of the Northwest Territories has released public information regarding arsenic in the environment around Yellowknife.