The Yukon became famous in the late 19th century when gold from the Klondike arrived at ports in the Southern United States; however, the Yukon's history actually began thousands of years earlier. According to archaeologists, man first settled the region 15,000 years ago, thanks to an Ice Bridge called Beringia, which linked Alaska and Siberia. Although the Gold Rush may be a world renowned event which characterizes the Yukon, our heritage also stems from the legends passed down from the ancestors of the First Nations people. The traditions of First Nations people, such as respect for the land and spiritual beliefs are still alive today and should be enjoyed by all visitors to the region. The combination of First Nations heritage mixed with our Gold Rush past gives Whitehorse a unique Culture and Heritage. For more information on our Yukon First Nations please visit the Council of Yukon First Nations website at http://www.theyukon.ca/dbs/cyfn/.

Whitehorse is a city that is alive with culture. A haven for artists and musicians, the art lover is sure to find something that fascinates them. The arts community has made excellent strides in keeping the population informed as to what events are upcoming through their "ArtsNet Guide", available at City Hall. There are numerous arts galleries in town displaying the works of local artists, and meeting an artist in person is not a rarity. Musicians can often be spotted on the streets putting on shows for passers by, and there is always live music in the bars on the weekends. Be sure to check out "Arts in the Park" weekday afternoons at LePage Park all summer long.

There is more to our culture than art. Our culture is all that is northern. It's pond hockey on a Sunday afternoon. It's walking the dog under the northern lights. It's splitting wood on a frosty morning. It's swimming under the midnight sun. It's spending time with friends at the Canada Day Celebrations. It's fishing on a sunny day with a beer and without a care. Our culture is something that can't be described, but is felt by everyone who lives here and all our visitors.