You Don’t Want To Miss This One-Of-A-Kind Whale Festival In Alaska
Each spring, the community of Craig in Southeast Alaska hosts the Prince of Wales Whalefest. Named for the island on which Craig is located, this unique whale festival celebrates the giants of the deep and their importance to life in the area. In this part of Alaska, winter is just turning the corner to spring and the island is exploding with warmth and life. Head to Craig for this amazing gathering of community for fun contests and events, a joyful celebration of the whales that makes Alaska’s waters their home, at least some of the year.
Prince of Wales Whalefest
Craig High School Auditorium, The Hill Bar, and on the waves
Craig, Alaska
March 28-31
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Craig lies on Prince of Wales Island in southeast Alaska, a place where the ocean is as much a part of the town as the land. Transportation here is largely by boats of various sizes and small planes.
In late March, the herring spawn and with that abundance of seafood brings all the creatures that love caviar: sea ducks, American bald eagles, seals, sea lions and, of course, whales.
A local who attended the Sitka whale festival in a nearby Alaskan town began the tradition 8 years ago, and now this event is a thriving staple of the spring.
Artists offer whale themed art classes throughout the event, as well as an Xtra tuff decoration contest. These plain brown rubber boots are an integral part of Alaskan fashion near the water and decoration is a fun way to personalize them.
The festival begins with scientific lectures about the archaeology of the area and scientists speaking about whales. The Sitka Sound Science Center assists with presentations, as well as contributions from the local high school biology class.
A morning walk on the tidal reef is fun for everyone. Explore the abundance of sea life on the reef with a knowledgeable guide for a scientific adventure.
The festival culminates with a fun evening of live music in the town auditorium. There is poetry and storytelling, music and community and an open mic held in the evening during the festival.
