a group of dogs pulling a sled

Annual Festivals & Events in Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska, is a place that is brimming with activity and culture throughout the year. Whether it be a winter festival or a warm summer gathering, there is no doubt that there is always something going on. Each event is wonderful, and the Historical Anchorage Hotel offers accommodations with desirable amenities close to all the best local festivities that happen in the city. Find annual events and festivals in Anchorage. Discover exciting celebrations, unique traditions, and must-attend experiences throughout the year. Keep reading to learn more.

Winter Events

Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race

Beginning on the first Saturday of March and running until the last musher has reached Nome or scratched, roughly two weeks on average, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is certainly not to be missed! This race for dog mushers allows dogs and mushers to race to see who can do so in the shortest amount of time with no help from others. The ceremonial start takes place on 4th Avenue, just outside the Historic Anchorage Hotel in downtown Anchorage.

Anchorage Fur Rendezvous

Often referred to as "Fur Rondy" this winter festival features events like the running of the reindeer and outhouse races. There's no denying the fun and historical roots of the festival, as locals and tourists gather to celebrate the spirit of the Alaska winter. This winter festival is one of the largest of its kind in the world. It coincides with the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, making the last week of February and the first week of March one of the most exciting times to visit Anchorage.

Other Winter Events

Spring Events

Anchorage Market & Festival

The Anchorage Market & Festival is located at 225 E Street in Anchorage, ½ block from the Historic Anchorage Hotel entrance, and offers art & photography by local artists, exotic goods from around the world, and everything in between. Up to 100 unique vendors are ready to bring you anything you are looking for, and the lively entertainment is a great addition to the wide selection of food offerings you'll find here.

First Friday Art Walk

Held on the first Friday of each month, this event is a collaboration of shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes that feature the work of a different local artist. Guests can enjoy light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the featured artist of the month. This is truly an event that is not to be missed!

Other Spring Events

Summer Solstice Festival

Come celebrate the longest day of the year at the festival that has a variety of food trucks, entertainment, and activities.

Girdwood Forest Fair

This annual family fair offers the opportunity to enjoy Alaskan artists, hand-crafted items, exotic foods, and entertainers from around the state. There's no better way to celebrate the culture of the 49th state than at this event held in the resort town of Girdwood.

Bear Paw Festival

Don't miss the Bear Paw Festival, held the second weekend in July. It's five days of fun with events like the Slippery Olympics, a classic car show, and, of course, plenty of carnival rides.

Other Summer Events

Fall Events

Alaska State Fair

This amazing fall event is filled with entertainment, rides, agricultural events, and any type of food you can imagine! Every year, Alaskan farmers bring their giant vegetables to compete for the blue ribbon and break world records. In 2024, the largest cabbage weighed in at 97.35 lbs., and the winner of the Alaska Midnight Sun Great Pumpkin Weigh-off weighed in at 2,035 lbs.

Halloween Harvest Festivals

The many Halloween Harvest Festivals in Anchorage include APU Nordic Trick or Treat & Fall Feed, Trick or Treat Street, and Sleepy Hollow-een Fall Fest. Zoo Boo may be the best of all, a costume event at the Alaska Zoo.

Other Fall Events

Annual Cultural Celebrations

Alaska Native Heritage Month

Celebrated in November, the Alaska Native Heritage Month honors the traditions, stories, and languages of Native Alaska Communities. There's no better way to learn about the culture of the state of Alaska.

Various Music and Arts Festivals

Each year, you can enjoy various events and cultural festivals that celebrate Native Alaska traditions. Check out the Salmon Derby, the Mayor's Marathon & Half Marathon, and the Anchorage Folk Festival - an event featuring numerous local musicians and performers.

Conventions & Tradeshows near the Hotel

In town for a local convention or business expo? The Historic Anchorage Hotel is conveniently close to William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center (half a block away) and Dena'ina Civic Convention Center (4 blocks away), so you don’t have to waste too much time commuting to and from your event. You can also utilize our well-equipped business center with copy and fax machines to easily prepare for presentations and meetings.

View Events at the Anchorage Convention Centers

Experience Anchorage by Booking your Stay at the Historic Anchorage Hotel 

With so many must-attend experiences around the year, Anchorage is certainly the ultimate place to be. Get the most out of your experience by booking your stay at the luxurious and renovated Historic Anchorage Hotel. Contact us today for more information. 

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