Emerald Lake, South Klondike Highway, Yukon, Canada

© artherng/Getty Image

Glowing from within. Discovery Day in Yukon, Canada

It's Discovery Day in Yukon, Canada, a day to commemorate the 1896 discovery of gold at Bonanza Creek. The event set off the Klondike Gold Rush, which attracted thousands of prospectors to the region in search of gold, leading to significant economic and social changes. The population increase led to Yukon separating from the Northwest Territories and the formation of Yukon Territory in 1898.

Discovery Day celebrates Yukon's rich heritage, history, and natural resources—like Emerald Lake, seen in today's image, known for its deep green hues. You'll find it on the Klondike Highway, which roughly follows the route used by the prospectors more than a century ago. It is also a day to honor the spirit of adventure exhibited during the gold rush. Government offices, schools, and many businesses close to allow people to participate in the festivities, including parades, historical reenactments, gold panning competitions, and concerts.