Atlin is a tiny community in Northwestern British Columbia that is home to about 400 year-around residents. It is just 180km south of Whitehorse, Yukon. Atlin is within the traditional territory of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation. Gold was discovered in Atlin Valley in 1897 and spawned a Goldrush that coincided with the Klondyke Stampede to Dawson City, Yukon.

Gold is still mined to this day, as well as other metals. A road was constructed through to Atlin in 1950, and since then Atlin has become a haven for people seeking out a different way of life; those looking for peace and quiet, incredible beauty, and has become an attraction for artists, self-sufficient types, and retired folk.

The people of Atlin are proud and independent. They tend to have the time of day to stop and talk to visitors and share a few yarns. The Pine Tree Restaurant is the place for the locals every morning. Atlin is normally a quiet town, but come festival weekend it comes alive and parades its colours; there are people everywhere setting up shop, selling crafts, opening their art studios, and jamming in the streets. Consider coming the week before the festival and get a feel for the town, or stay after for a few days to watch it return to its normal tranquil pace.

For more information about Atlin see www.discoveratlin.com