Guest Author - Kimi Ross

No matter when you visit Alaska, there is something going on. From the summer festivals of music to the unique winter celebrations to combat cabin fever you’re sure to find an annual event that will give you a taste of Alaska living.

The following list is by no means exhaustive, but includes some of the more popular annual events around the state. If you’re planning to include one of these in your trip to Alaska, make reservations early! Some towns have limited accommodations, which can be completely booked during a big festival. Even in larger cities like Fairbanks, it can often be difficult to find a room or campsite during the height of activities. So plan ahead and then enjoy the festivities!


May

Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival, Homer.The return of migrating shorebirds to Alaska is one of the highlights of spring. Hundreds of thousands of shorebirds representing more than 25 species can be viewed in the area around Kachemak Bay during their annual spring migration. Events during this festival are educational in nature and include ornithology workshops, field trips, beginning backyard birding presentations, and activities especially for children.

Fishing Derbies. The summer fishing season kicks off in May with several halibut and salmon derbies around the state. Homer, Valdez, Seward and other coastal towns all have fishing derbies timed to match the runs in their area. You can even participate in the Ship Creek King Salmon Derby in downtown Anchorage! Cash prizes can be quite hefty. If you’re coming to Alaska to fish, don’t forget to buy a derby ticket!

June

Sitka Summer Music Festival, Sitka. Begins the first Friday in June and continues for three weeks. This premier musical festival features well-known professional chamber musicians from around the world. Events include Tuesday and Friday evening concerts, as well as one Saturday evening performance.

Mayor’s Midnight Sun Marathon & Half Marathon, Anchorage. Held on the Summer Solstice each year, this is Alaska’s largest marathon, attracting competitors from around the world. Course is exceptionally scenic. This race is also a Boston Marathon qualifier.

July

World Eskimo-Indian Olympics, Fairbanks. You won’t see figure skating or track and field events at this Olympics, but rather games such as the Ear Pull and One-foot High Kick. These traditional games require coordination, agility, strength, and perseverance through pain – skills necessary for survival in the North.

Sadler’s Ultra Challenge, Fairbanks to Anchorage. This is the longest wheelchair and handcycle race in the world and considered one of the toughest events for wheelchair athletes. The 267 mile race course down the Parks Highway is completed in 8 stages over seven days.

August

Alaska State Fair, Palmer. Ever see an eighty pound cabbage? This is the place to see one! Alaska grower John Evans (holder of several world records for giant veggies) brings his cabbage to the fair annually. There are also typical fair activities available: carnival rides, music, cook-offs, livestock displays, and a variety of unique contests such as the Great Alaska Husband Holler and the Homesteader Events. Runs the last weekend in August through Labor Day.

Flower and Garden Show, Skagway. Nicknamed the “Garden City of Alaska,” this three day event celebrates Skagway’s floral gardens.

September

Kodiak State Fair and Rodeo, Kodiak. Another of Alaska’s five state fairs, with an emphasis on rodeo. Junior and main events, exhibits, and traditional contests such as pie eating. Held on Labor Day weekend.