The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race
- The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race: A Quirky Celebration in Whitehorse
- History of the Race
- Event Highlights
- Team Participation
- Judging Criteria
- Spectator Experience
- Tips for Participants
- Tips for Spectators
- Event Schedule
- Location
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Cost
- What to Pack
- Insider Tip: A Truly Unique Yukon Experience
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race: A Quirky Celebration in Whitehorse
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Whitehorse, Yukon, lies a unique and unforgettable event that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike: The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race. This quirky festival, held annually in late February or early March, pays homage to the Klondike Gold Rush era and the resilience of the Yukon people. Teams from around the world gather to compete in a hilarious and lighthearted race, showcasing their creativity and humor through elaborately decorated outhouses on skis. The atmosphere is electric with laughter and camaraderie, making this event a must-see for anyone seeking a truly memorable experience in the Yukon.
History of the Race
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race has its roots in the 1970s, when a group of Yukoners came together to commemorate the Klondike Gold Rush. Inspired by the harsh conditions faced by gold seekers during the gold rush, they decided to create a unique and humorous event that would celebrate the resilience and humor of the Yukon people. The first race was held in 1979 and has been held annually ever since, growing in popularity over the years and attracting teams from around the world. The race has become a beloved tradition in Whitehorse and a highlight of the Yukon's winter festival season.
Event Highlights
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is not just about speed and competition; it's also about creativity, humor, and community spirit. Teams go all out to decorate their outhouses with elaborate designs and themes, ranging from historical references to pop culture parodies. From outhouses shaped like giant gold nuggets to outhouses adorned with disco balls, the creativity on display is truly impressive.
In addition to the race itself, the event features live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere for participants and spectators alike. The culmination of the event is the parade of outhouses, where teams proudly showcase their creations while spectators cheer and applaud. The parade is a highlight of the event, where the teams' creativity and humor shine through.
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a unique and memorable experience that celebrates the history, culture, and humor of the Yukon. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, you're sure to have a blast at this quirky and unforgettable festival.
Team Participation
Teams of 4-6 members are encouraged to participate in the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race. Each team must build their own outhouse on skis, following specific guidelines provided by the organizers. The outhouses must be sturdy and functional, capable of withstanding the rigors of the racecourse. Teams can choose to compete in the speed race, the design competition, or both. In the speed race, teams compete to complete a designated course in the shortest amount of time. The design competition judges outhouses on their creativity, originality, and overall presentation. Prizes are awarded for the fastest outhouse, the most creative design, and the best overall presentation. Participating in the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a unique and memorable experience that allows teams to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and sense of humor.
Judging Criteria
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race features two main categories of competition: the speed race and the design competition. Teams are judged on their ability to complete the racecourse in the shortest amount of time and on the creativity and originality of their outhouse design.
In the speed race, teams compete against the clock to complete a designated course. The course typically includes obstacles such as snow banks, ice patches, and uneven terrain. Teams must navigate the course while keeping their outhouse upright and intact. The fastest team to complete the course without any major mishaps is declared the winner.
In the design competition, teams are judged on the creativity, originality, and overall presentation of their outhouse. Outhouses are evaluated on their artistic merit, their use of materials, and their adherence to the theme of the race. Teams are encouraged to be creative and humorous with their designs, and there are often prizes for the most unique and entertaining outhouses.
In addition to the speed and design competitions, teams are also judged on their overall presentation. This includes their costumes, props, and team spirit. Teams are encouraged to dress up in creative and humorous costumes, and they often use props and decorations to enhance their presentation. The team with the best overall presentation is awarded a special prize.
Spectator Experience
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is not just a competition for participants; it's also a spectacle for spectators. Thousands of people gather along the racecourse to witness the unique and humorous outhouses and cheer on their favorite teams. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The parade of outhouses is a highlight of the event, showcasing the teams' creativity and humor. Spectators can also enjoy the awards ceremony, where prizes are given for the fastest outhouse, the most creative design, and the best overall presentation.
Tips for Participants
Participating in the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a fun and rewarding experience, but there are a few things you can do to ensure you have the best possible time.
- Dress warmly: The weather in Whitehorse can be unpredictable, so dress in warm, comfortable layers. You'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, so make sure you're prepared for the cold.
- Be creative: One of the best things about the race is the creativity of the outhouses. Let your imagination run wild and come up with a unique and humorous design.
- Practice building your outhouse: Before the race, practice building your outhouse to make sure it is sturdy and functional. You don't want to spend all your time on race day trying to fix a broken outhouse.
- Have fun: Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the camaraderie with your teammates and fellow participants. The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a celebration of the Klondike Gold Rush and the Yukon spirit, so embrace the fun and enjoy the experience.
Tips for Spectators
As a spectator, you're in for a treat at the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Arrive early to secure a good spot along the racecourse. The event attracts a large crowd, so it's best to arrive early to get a good view of the race.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique and humorous outhouses. The outhouses are often elaborately decorated with humorous or creative themes, so you'll want to have your camera ready to capture the best ones.
- Sample the local cuisine from the food vendors. There will be a variety of food vendors on-site, offering everything from local Yukon cuisine to international fare. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies, such as reindeer sausage or smoked salmon.
- Stay for the parade of outhouses and the awards ceremony. The parade of outhouses is a highlight of the event, showcasing the teams' creativity and humor. The awards ceremony is also a fun way to see which teams took home the top prizes.
Event Schedule
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is typically held in late February or early March. The exact dates vary from year to year, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information. The event usually takes place over two days, with the race and parade on the second day.
On the first day, teams gather to build their outhouses and prepare for the race. There is often a festive atmosphere with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
On the second day, the excitement builds as teams line up for the race. The course is typically a short distance, and teams must complete it as quickly as possible while maintaining their outhouse's integrity.
After the race, there is a parade of outhouses, where teams show off their creativity and humor. The parade is followed by an awards ceremony, where prizes are awarded for the fastest outhouse, the most creative design, and the best overall presentation.
Whether you're a participant or a spectator, the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a unique and memorable experience that captures the spirit of the Yukon.
Location
The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race takes place in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. Whitehorse is the capital city of Yukon and is located in the southwestern part of the territory. The race takes place on a designated course in the city center, near the Yukon River.
Whitehorse is a vibrant and welcoming city with a rich history and culture. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. The city is also home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre and the SS Klondike National Historic Site.
If you're planning to attend the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore all that Whitehorse has to offer. The city is a great place to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Yukon.
Accommodation
Whitehorse offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to various budgets and preferences. For a budget-friendly stay, consider hostels such as the Whitehorse Hostel or the HI Whitehorse Hostel, which provide dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities. Mid-range options include hotels like the Best Western Gold Rush Inn and the Coast High Country Inn, offering comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast. If you seek a luxurious experience, consider splurging on a stay at the Yukon Inn, renowned for its elegant rooms, on-site dining options, and stunning views of the Yukon River. To ensure a hassle-free trip, book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak tourist season. Consider staying in the city center to be within easy reach of the racecourse and other attractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities.
Transportation
Whitehorse is well-connected to the rest of Canada and Alaska by air, road, and rail. The Whitehorse International Airport (YXY) is located about 15 kilometers from the city center and offers flights to major cities in Canada and the United States. Rental cars are available at the airport and in the city, providing a convenient option for exploring the region at your own pace. The Alaska Highway, a legendary road that stretches from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Fairbanks, Alaska, passes through Whitehorse, making it easily accessible by car or motorcycle. For a truly scenic journey, consider taking the White Pass and Yukon Route railway, which offers a historic train ride between Whitehorse and Skagway, Alaska, through stunning mountain landscapes.
Cost
The registration fee for the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race varies from year to year. Teams can expect to pay around $100-$200 to participate. Spectators can attend the event for free. Additional costs may include accommodation, transportation, and food.
To save on accommodation, consider staying in a hostel or bed and breakfast. There are also several campgrounds in the Whitehorse area if you're traveling in an RV or camper. For transportation, renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the Yukon at your own pace. However, public transportation and taxis are also available.
Food costs can be kept low by eating at local restaurants or cooking your own meals. There are several grocery stores in Whitehorse where you can stock up on supplies.
With a little planning, you can easily enjoy the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race without breaking the bank.
What to Pack
When packing for the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race, it's important to consider the unpredictable weather conditions in Whitehorse. Dress in warm, comfortable layers to stay cozy throughout the event. Sturdy footwear with good traction is essential for navigating snowy and icy surfaces. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the unique and humorous outhouses. Binoculars can also be useful for getting a closer look at the race. To protect yourself from the sun's glare, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. With these essentials, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy the spectacle and excitement of the race.
Insider Tip: A Truly Unique Yukon Experience
If you're seeking an experience that truly encapsulates the spirit of the Yukon, look no further than the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race. This quirky and lighthearted festival is a celebration of the region's rich history and culture, paying homage to the resilience and humor of the Yukon people. Immerse yourself in the spectacle of elaborately decorated outhouses, witness the teams' competitive spirit as they race on skis, and revel in the infectious laughter that permeates the air. The Great Klondike International Outhouse Race is a must-see event for anyone seeking a truly unique and memorable Yukon experience. So come prepared to be amazed, entertained, and thoroughly amused by this one-of-a-kind festival.
