Northern Lights Centre

A state-of-the-art facility dedicated to educating visitors about the Northern Lights phenomenon with interactive exhibits and IMAX presentations explaining the science behind aurora displays. Located in Yellowknife, it serves as an essential complement to viewing the actual lights in the night sky.

Things to do

• IMAX Theatre Aurora Presentation — Watch a large-format film explaining the scientific mechanisms behind aurora borealis formation and magnetic storms.
• Interactive Aurora Exhibit — Engage with hands-on displays demonstrating solar wind, magnetosphere interactions, and real-time auroral data visualization.
• Planetarium Show — Experience immersive astronomical presentations that contextualize the Northern Lights within the broader cosmos.
• Aurora Forecasting Workshop — Learn how to read aurora prediction indices and understand the Kp-index to optimize viewing opportunities during your stay.
• Photography Tips Session — Attend a guided demonstration on camera settings, composition, and techniques specific to capturing the Northern Lights.
• Yellowknife Night Sky Tour — Join staff-guided outdoor viewing sessions from the Centre's location to observe actual auroral displays when conditions permit.

Food to try

• Musk Ox Stew — A hearty local specialty featuring tender musk ox meat slow-cooked with root vegetables, reflecting Northern hunting traditions.
• Arctic Char — Fresh freshwater fish native to Yellowknife lakes, typically prepared grilled or smoked and served at local restaurants.
• Bannock Bread — Traditional Indigenous fried bread served warm with jam or used as an accompaniment to stews and soups.
• Bison Burger — Lean ground bison meat crafted into a burger, offering a locally-sourced alternative to conventional beef found throughout the region.
• Pickerel Fish — A mild white fish caught from local northern lakes and commonly pan-fried or baked in Yellowknife dining establishments.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Aurora Viewing Etiquette — When observing the lights outdoors, minimize artificial light and noise to preserve the experience for others and allow eyes to adjust for better viewing.
• Dress Warmly for Winter Visits — Yellowknife experiences extreme cold during peak aurora season; wearing layered clothing rated for -30°C or colder is essential for safety and comfort.
• Acknowledge Dene and Yellowknives Dene Heritage — The region is traditional Indigenous territory; many aurora interpretations carry cultural significance to local First Nations communities, and respectful learning is encouraged.
• Plan for Extended Stay — Aurora displays are unpredictable; most visitors spend 3 to 5 nights in Yellowknife to increase chances of witnessing strong auroral activity.