As the ice breaks and the city prepares for its most energetic season, there is no better place to witness the transformation of the North than from the heights of Fraser Tower. Summer in Yellowknife is a time of endless energy, and living downtown means you are perfectly positioned to experience the festivals, the waterfront, and the unique lifestyle that comes with 20 hours of daylight.
Whether you are moving to Yellowknife this season or preparing your suite for the warmer months, here is your guide to making the most of a Northern summer at Fraser Tower.
The Midnight Sun Experience
By the time we reach the summer solstice in June, the sun barely dips below the horizon. This phenomenon provides an incredible amount of energy to the city, but it also requires some lifestyle adjustments for those living in high-rise suites.
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Apartment Tip: With the sun staying up so late, your windows will let in a lot of light and warmth. We recommend installing high-quality blackout curtains in your bedroom at Fraser Tower to help regulate your sleep cycle. Keeping your curtains drawn during the peak afternoon sun also helps keep your suite cool and comfortable for the evening.
Downtown Festivals and Community Events
One of the greatest perks of living at Fraser Tower is the proximity to the city's summer cultural hub. Most of the best summer events are just a short walk away.
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Yellowknife Farmers Market: Every Tuesday evening, Somba K'e Civic Plaza becomes the heart of the city. It is the perfect place to enjoy local food, artisan crafts, and live music with a view of Frame Lake.
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Folk on the Rocks: This iconic music festival on the shores of Long Lake is the highlight of the summer. Living downtown makes it easy to catch the shuttles or carpool with neighbors to enjoy a weekend of music under the sun.
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Old Town Ramble and Ride: Head down the hill to explore the historic Old Town district during this community-focused festival featuring local art, music, and interactive displays.
Outdoor Adventure and Great Slave Lake
Even in the center of the city, nature is never more than a few minutes away.
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On the Water: Take advantage of the long days by exploring Back Bay. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to see the famous houseboats and the rugged coastline of Great Slave Lake from a new perspective.
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On the Trails: The Frame Lake Trail offers a beautiful urban escape for a post-work walk or run. For a more rugged experience, the Ingraham Trail is just a short drive away, leading to spectacular spots like Cameron Falls.
A Unique Round of Golf
Yellowknife is home to one of the most unique golfing experiences in Canada. At the Yellowknife Golf Club, you can take advantage of the Midnight Sun to tee off late into the night. Playing 18 holes at midnight on sand fairways is a bucket-list experience for anyone living in the North.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in Yellowknife
How do I keep my suite at Fraser Tower cool during the summer? With 20 hours of daylight, suites can absorb a lot of heat. We recommend keeping your blackout curtains closed during the day to block out the sun and opening your windows in the late evening when the air is crisp to allow for natural cross-ventilation.
Is it easy to access the Farmers Market from Fraser Tower? Yes! Fraser Tower is within walking distance of Somba K'e Civic Plaza. It is a great way to enjoy the Tuesday evening sun without worrying about downtown parking.
What is the best time to apply for a summer move-in? The summer months are the busiest time for rentals in Yellowknife as people relocate to the North. To ensure you get the layout you want at Fraser Tower, we recommend starting your application in May or early June before the peak festival season begins.