Organizers of the Yellowknife Colour Run say this year’s inaugural event raised $3,500 in net proceeds for Inclusion NWT. Organizers also announced next year’s exciting expansion of the Colour Run to a Colour Fest Music Festival.
Over 500 participants took part in the run this year which took place on Sept. 20 in downtown Yellowknife.
“More than anything, we want to thank the citizens of Yellowknife for trusting us and our
incredible volunteers to bring this event to life,” said Ncube.
“The contribution recognises the invaluable work the organisation does to enable people with disabilities—and their families—to live independent, meaningful, and inclusive lives,” said organizers in a joint statement.
“The work done by Inclusion NWT—rooted in respect, dignity, equality, diversity, justice, and self-determination—is important work, and the organisation deserves all the support it can get,” added Tham Ncube, the lead organizer.
Like many local and country-wide festivals including Folk On The Rocks, the Colour Run confronted challenges with balancing costs.
“We all wish we could give more to organisations like Inclusion NWT,” Ncube said.
“But with ticket prices intentionally kept low this year, most funds went toward the costs of
running the festival—t-shirts for participants and volunteers, first-aid services, portaloos and hand wash stations, entertainment for children, colour powder, DJs, and sound equipment. Our hope is that next year’s Colour Run will allow for a modest ticket increase so that we can cover all costs and still make a meaningful donation to a deserving organisation,” he added.
Folks at Inclusion NWT expressed appreciation to the Colour Run organizers and participants for their support along with the donation which totalled in the thousands, despite the cost challenges.
“We were thrilled to see the community come together for the Yellowknife Colour Run— a vibrant and joyful fundraiser in support of Inclusion NWT. Events like this not only raise essential funds but also build awareness and foster inclusion in fun and meaningful Ways,” said Catherine Fairbairn, who is the board chairperson at Inclusion NWT.
Colour Run Organizers from the Yellowknife Munch Sip and Paint Festival Board plan to continue the festival and meet annually to select a local non-profit to support.
Organizers announced they are planning to expand the scope and length of the event.
“The 2025 Colour Run was just the beginning—next year we’re planning to make it a full weekend celebration with the addition of a Colour Fest Music Festival. It’s going to be a colourful summer weekend to remember!,” exclaimed Ncube.
DJ Chef Boy HD performed at the Colour Run this year told True North FM that having more events like this, that offer something new and include everyone is critical work to help build the vibrancy that makes Yellowknife such a special place.
“It’s good to get the whole community involved,” he said.
Organizers hope to keep growing the event and build more momentum behind it.
“Our hope really is as organizers that this will become a Yellowknife landmark, people will know that there’s a Yellowknife Colour Run taking place in September and it will become synonymous with this time of the year,” Ncube told True North FM.
