The Tłı̨chǫ Government hosted the Ediwa Weyallon Handgames Tournament in Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories, from February 27 to March 1, 2026. The four-day event brought together teams from across the region to compete in the traditional games, which serve as a major cultural gathering for the community.
The tournament featured a total prize pool of $150,000 for the top-performing teams. The first-place winners took home $50,000, while the second and third-place teams received $30,000 and $20,000 respectively.
Following the competition, the community held a feast and a traditional drum dance on March 2, 2026, to celebrate the participants. The event is named in honour of the late Ediwa Weyallon, a respected former leader and Chief in the region.
Local youth played a significant role in the event through a special broadcasting initiative. Teens such as Morgan Nitsiza were trained to operate a live video feed, allowing people to watch the matches online as they happened.
The tournament provided a boost to the local economy by creating opportunities for artists and food vendors. Many residents also supported the event by providing housing for the many players and fans who travelled to the area.
The gathering took place just after the Tłı̨chǫ Government signed a historic agreement regarding the eventual closure of the Diavik Diamond Mine. This new partnership focuses on environmental care and cultural renewal for the community in the years ahead.
