City Life

5 Alaska Festivals And Fairs You Need To Go To

If there is one thing Alaskans do well, its celebrate summer. Maybe it’s the relief of surviving another long dark winter or maybe it’s just the excitement of warmer weather, but either way, Alaskans do summer right. To us, these few months of the sun are precious and what better way to enjoy them than with festivals? Here are the top 5 Alaska festivals and fairs to go to this summer.

1. Salmonfest

I started going to Salmonfest 3 years ago and it has quickly become one of my favorite events of summer. This festival is music with a heart. Every year the small town of Ninilchik hosts over 6,000 people on a mission to celebrate salmon, music, food, and community. The event has music almost 24 hours a day on one of the several stages that range from folk to techno, and the food is amazing. This is a 3-day camping event, so pack up your car, reserve your tickets and camp spot early, and head down the peninsula for an unforgettable weekend.

  

2. Forrest Fair

If you want more than a backyard BBQ to celebrate the 4th of July, consider driving to Girdwood. This self-proclaimed ‘hippy-town’ hosts Forrest Fair every 4th of July weekend. Unlike most festivals, Forrest Fair is, as one might guess, held in the woods. Guests have to walk winding paths through the trees in order to shop the hundreds of local booths selling crafts and killer fair foods. But if you are a sunshine lover like me, don’t worry, the beer garden and music stages are both flooded with sunshine… If the weather cooperates.

3. Alaska State Fair

This is Alaska’s version of Coachella. I mean it’s nothing like Coachella but it’s as close as we can get. Every August the fair comes to Palmer, Alaska, and with it comes farm animals, big-name music acts, more food than anyone should ever eat, and rides that make you wish you didn’t eat the food I just mentioned. This is the fair for kids and adults alike or even adults who are wanting to be kids for the day. If you are able to brave the crowds and wear the right walking shoes, this fair will have something for you.

See Also

4. Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival

This is the place for those who want to kick it a little rough. In early August, Talkeetna hosts a camping and music celebration. They trade in the paved paths of the Alaska State Fair for dirt and grass and are happier for it. This festival plays music for up to 20 hours a day, sells the best of fair food, and encourages everyone to camp out for the weekend. They even have a designated area for families.

5. Spring Carnival & Slush Cup

Now I know this is about summer festivals, but I had to include Slush Cup. This is about as Alaskan as it gets. Every April, when the weather starts to melt the snow, and the days are finally getting longer, Alaskans head to Girdwood for Slush Cup. This popular event has brave people ski or snowboard down the slopes across a large open water in attempts to make it to the other side… Dry. Oh, and there are costumes. Last year I saw a T-rex make its way across the first pool, only to hit a jump and crash into the second larger pool of freezing water. This is just good Alaskan fun at its finest. Alaska festivals are unique, that’s for sure.

What do you think of these Alaska Festivals? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured image source: weheartit.com
Nancy Strahan

Hi, I am Nancy Strahan. I recently graduated with my BA in English Literature and am working to gain experience in the writing/content creation business. I was born and raised in Alaska and I love it here. I am pretty much an outdoor and adrenaline junkie, so if it is crazy or in nature, I'm there. So, naturally all things camping, backpacking, and adventure related are my favorite topics to write about.

Recent Posts

20 Ways To Wear Slip Dresses

Slip dresses are awesome because they are loose fitting so they are super comfortable, but also have sheen to add…

2 hours ago

20 Most Delicious Things That You Need To Eat In Dallas

There are so many delicious things you need to eat in Dallas, but it can be tricky to figure out…

6 hours ago

10 Tips To Add Some Edginess To Your Outfits

Do you ever look at yourself in the mirror after getting ready and feel like something is lacking? As if…

11 hours ago

5 Reasons Why I Chose To Go To Cal State Fullerton

There are many reasons why I chose to go to Cal State Fullerton, BUT here are the top five reasons…

18 hours ago

20 Most Delicious Things That You Need To Eat Around UNH

Whether you're a picky eater or eat whatever is put in front of you, there are some things you simply…

22 hours ago

20 Things No One Tells You About Freshman Year At University of Akron

COLLEGE. One of the best times in your life. Freshman year is a HUGE transition from high school. Your classes…

1 day ago