YUKON RIVERSIDE ARTS FESTIVAL

A celebration of art, music and summer in Dawson City, Yukon!

Every summer, the Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) invites artists and collectives to be part of the Yukon Riverside Arts Festival (YRAF), a vibrant weekend celebration of creativity and culture. This exciting event brings together artists, performers, and visitors to explore and engage with dynamic works across a wide range of art forms—from visual art and installations to live performances and interactive experiences.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dawson City, Yukon, YRAF takes place at Riverside Park and various iconic venues and historic sites throughout the town. Now celebrating its 25th year, it has been a cornerstone of the Yukon’s summer cultural scene, transforming Dawson City into a thriving arts hub in the North. The festival showcases the incredible talent of the region, offering a diverse mix of activities for all ages, including:

  • Performances and exhibits at unique venues throughout the city
  • Public art installations and interactive projects
  • Hands-on artist demonstrations, where you can learn from the masters themselves
  • An artist market, featuring one-of-a-kind crafts and art pieces made by local artisans
  • All-ages programming, with creative activities to engage young minds
  • Live music, celebrating the best in local and regional talent
  • Artist-led workshops and lectures from local and visiting artists, from Canada and beyond
  • Special events one-of-a-kind performances, celebrations and surprises
  • The Gallery Hop, a self-guided art crawl to kick off the festival and explore the best of Dawson’s vibrant art scene

YRAF TURNS 25, CELEBRATE WITH US!

What started in 2001 as a small, local gathering has now become a cornerstone of Yukon’s cultural scene. For 25 years, the Yukon Riverside Arts Festival (YRAF) has brought together art and community, evolving alongside Dawson City’s growing reputation as a unique cultural and historical destination.
We look forward to celebrating this journey with you. Look how far we’ve come!