Alaska is embracing summer with a vibrant array of festivals and events that celebrate the state’s natural beauty, music, arts, and culture. From bird watching to live music, Alaskans and tourists alike can look forward to a packed calendar filled with artistic and outdoor activities.
The season kicks off with the 14th annual Yakutat Tern Festival, running from May 29 to June 1. This celebration honors Yakutat as well as its diverse birdlife, particularly the Aleutian and Arctic terns. The festival promises family-friendly events suitable for all ages, making it a perfect starting point for summer festivities in Alaska.
Following shortly is the 18th annual Spenard Jazz Fest in Anchorage, taking place from May 30 to June 9. Jazz enthusiasts will have the chance to enjoy both emerging local artists and seasoned musicians from across the jazz community. The week-long event features concerts in various formats, including intimate house shows and public jam sessions, ensuring something for everyone.
Classical music fans will want to mark their calendars for the Sitka Music Festival, which unfolds from June 3 through June 29. Known for its chamber music and classical performances, this 54th season will present a variety of concerts featuring esteemed guest artists. Those interested can gather more information and secure tickets by visiting the festival’s official site.
In Anchorage, residents can partake in the Anchorage Concert Association Summer Series starting June 5 and running through July 31. This free concert series will showcase local talent in different neighborhoods, encouraging community engagement while enjoying outdoor music amid Alaska’s stunning landscapes.
Fairbanks will see action on June 6-7 with its Summer Folk Fest, a family-oriented event laden with live music, food trucks, and workshops. Ester Community Park will host activities from noon until 10 PM on Saturday, with a potluck and jamming session on Friday night to kick things off.
The 3 Barons Renaissance Fair promises two fun weekends in Anchorage on June 7-8 and June 14-15. This festival will present themed activities—pirate-themed events in the first weekend and fantasy themes in the second—complete with crafts, contests, and plenty of food options. Attendees can enjoy a general admission ticket for $12.
One of the most anticipated events in Anchorage is Vaniversary on June 7, celebrating live music with 28 local bands performing at Van’s Dive Bar from 3 PM to 2 AM. Beyond the music, there will be food and art activities, making it an engaging day for all attendees.
The Last Frontier Theatre Conference is scheduled from June 7-14 in Valdez. This gathering will reunite theater enthusiasts for various programs, including workshops with prominent figures in the performing arts. Participants can register for the event online and immerse themselves in the theatrical community.
Colony Days, taking place from June 13-15 in Palmer, will feature races, contests, carnivals, and farmers markets. This family-friendly summer celebration emphasizes local culture and community involvement.
Another highlight this June is Chickenstock, a popular music festival in Chicken on June 13-14. Though sold out this year, the event is known for its music, local cuisine, and crafts, embodying the spirit of Alaska’s unique music celebrations.
On June 14, the Solstice Luau in Healy will bring a taste of Hawaii with live music, traditional Hawaiian food, and plenty of festivities. Early bird tickets are available for just $15, inviting attendees to enjoy a tropical celebration.
June 14 also marks Juneteenth celebrations, with events taking place in Fairbanks and Anchorage. The Fairbanks chapter of the NAACP will host a Freedom Day on June 14 at Allridge Park, featuring cultural presentations and food vendors.
In Anchorage, the Juneteenth Citywide Celebration scheduled for June 14-15 promises a rich array of activities, including a health fair, education fair, and a parade to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States, aimed at celebrating community resilience and cultural heritage.
The Seldovia Summer Solstice Music Festival, occurring from June 19-22, will welcome major acts like Acoustic Eidolon and The House of Hamill. Attendees will celebrate the summer solstice along scenic Kachemak Bay, making it a picturesque experience.
Fairbanks will celebrate the solstice with the annual Midnight Sun Festival on June 21. This extensive event will provide 12 hours of entertainment, drawing thousands of visitors to downtown Fairbanks to join in the festivities.
Nikiski’s Family Fun in the Midnight Sun is also set for June 21, ensuring a lively family atmosphere with games, music, and delicious food.
For those enthusiastic about music, Chugach Fest will be held in Anchorage on June 20-21 at the Arctic Valley Ski Area. This two-day event highlights Alaska’s top musical talents, along with food trucks and camping opportunities.
Valdez will host the End of the Road Ren Fair on June 20-21, which promises live performances and unique handmade items from artisans across the state in a setting filled with medieval charm.
The Moose Pass Summer Solstice Festival, taking place June 21-22, will feature food, music, and art, capturing the essence of summer festivities within the vibrant community of Moose Pass.
Anchorage’s Downtown Summer Solstice Festival on June 21 invites guests to enjoy food trucks, live music, and performances across various parks and local streets to celebrate the solstice.
June concludes with the Anchorage Pride Parade and Festival on June 28, offering a colorful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. The parade will begin at 11:30 AM, followed by a festival on the Park Strip featuring local vendors, food, and performances.
The Althing Heathen Festival returns on June 28 in Fairbanks, promising a day filled with music, workshops, and a unique heathen market, celebrating spiritual traditions and community.
Palmer will celebrate Scottish heritage and community spirit on June 28-29 with the Alaska Scottish Highland Games. This exciting event will include competitors participating in traditional games while attendees can enjoy food and festive music.
Additionally, Homer will host the Homer Peony Celebration from July 1-August 17, showcasing the beauty of peonies across local farms and offering numerous activities and events supported by local businesses.
Seward will come alive on July 3-4 with Fourth of July celebrations alongside the annual Mount Marathon footrace, which challenges participants to run up and down the steep mountain slopes.
The Forest Fair in Girdwood, scheduled from July 4-6, offers a space for local artists and community engagement with handicrafts, local foods, and a vibrant atmosphere that draws visitors from near and far.
For fans of Scottish traditions, the Kachemak Bay Highland Games will follow in Homer on July 5, providing another chance to enjoy the music and events centered around Scottish culture. Tickets are available for those looking to participate.
Chugiak-Eagle River residents will host the Bear Paw Festival from July 9-13, a community celebration filled with food, crafts, and unique contests that foster a sense of togetherness.
Alaska Yoga Fest in Fairbanks is set for July 11-12, encouraging outdoor wellness with various yoga classes throughout the day. This festival promotes health and fitness, welcoming attendees of all levels to join in the sessions.
With a rich history, Golden Days in Fairbanks from July 12-19 marks the city’s founding, featuring a grand parade, street fair, and events suitable for every age.
The Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival, happening from July 13-27, offers numerous workshops and performances across various artistic fields, inviting creativity and collaboration.
Rock’n the Ranch at the RustyRavin on July 18-19 is a vibrant music festival featuring local musicians, delightful food, and relaxing spaces for attendees to unwind and enjoy the performances.
Simultaneously, the Rock the Hill music festival in Anchorage on July 18-19 merges art, culture, and outdoor adventures, creating a unique festival experience.
The Copper River Salmon Jam on July 18-19 brings music and community together in Cordova to celebrate local arts, culture, and, of course, salmon. This family-friendly event supports the local community and offers activities for all age groups.
The Vanstock Alaska festival in Palmer, happening from July 18-21, celebrates traveler culture and features various musical acts, live performances, and a gathering of fellow van life enthusiasts.
From July 23 to August 2, the Anchorage Chamber Music Festival will bridge genres through house concerts and public performances, enriching attendees’ experiences with world-class musicians and training opportunities for young musicians.
The Back to Bluegrass Festival supporting KSKO will follow in McGrath on July 26-27, celebrating the bluegrass genre with performances and community support.
In late July, Wrangell will host the Alaska Bearfest, dedicating its events from July 30-August 3 to the preservation and celebration of bears. This festival will offer numerous activities, including races and a special seafood dinner paired with live music.
Gold Rush Days in Valdez from July 30 to August 3 invites reflection on the town’s history while offering vendors, a parade, and community events to engage both locals and visitors alike.
The Southeast Alaska State Fair will take place in Haines from July 31 to August 3, showcasing local talents and competitions across various disciplines along with entertainment options yet to be announced.
Salmonfest, a beloved music festival in Ninilchik running from August 1-3, will highlight outstanding performances from renowned artists and include family-friendly activities centered around the culinary delights of salmon.
The Blueberry Arts Festival in Ketchikan on August 1-3 is a notable annual event showcasing local arts, with plenty of family activities, live music, and unique contests like the Blueberry Boat Race.
Following shortly is the Kenai Peninsula Fair in Ninilchik from August 8-10, known as the “Biggest Little Fair in Alaska,” featuring exhibits, food, and entertaining performances.
The Ester Fest in Fairbanks on August 9 focuses on community spirit with family-friendly activities and local musicians supporting the maintenance of Ester Community Park.
The Alaska State Fair, running from August 15 to September 1 in Palmer, promises thrill and tradition with rides, concerts from famous artists, and a showcase of local talent through food and exhibits.
Finally, the Anchorage Runfest on August 16-17 caters to runners of all levels with races designed to challenge and inspire, including a half marathon and various shorter races.
The Alaska Greek Festival on August 22-24 will present a delightful culinary experience featuring Greek cuisine, dancing, and music, allowing guests to revel in cultural traditions.
The Sacred Acre festival on September 5-7 in Ninilchik will embrace electronic music while promoting environmental awareness and exciting acts set to perform.
The Girdwood Fungus Fair, scheduled for September 6-7, encourages an appreciation for local fungi through educational opportunities, bringing together community members in a shared love for Alaska’s natural environment.
Lastly, Cordova’s 19th annual Fungus Festival from September 19-21 will continue the theme of exploration, focusing on foraging and education related to the natural treasures provided by the land.
With an impressive lineup of diverse festivals and events scheduled across the summer, Alaska showcases its rich culture and vibrant community spirit, making for an unforgettable season of celebration.
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