Summer in Alaska is absolutely magical. It all culminates in the peak of our sunshine soaked days on summer solstice. Fairbanks is arguably the summer solstice capital of Alaska, and boy do they show it! They throw the most epic outdoor summer single day festival Alaska has ever seen!
Summer solstice may be one of Alaska's biggest holidays.
That makes "The Golden City" the perfect place to host the Midnight Sun Festival! With 24 hours of delicious sunlight in Fairbanks on summer solstice, people love celebrating in the largest city up north.
The streets of downtown Fairbanks are thronged with over 30,000 people!
The event itself is twelve hours long, running from 12:00 p.m. through 12:00 a.m. This is more than enough time to check out almost 300 Alaskan business vendors!
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You can find so many amazing things to do and see during this festival.
There are tons of different types of food available, from fresh Alaskan seafood to traditional Alaska Native dishes. You can also find some of your favorite fair foods!
This year the Midnight Sun Festival is falling on Sunday, June 23rd.
Make sure to make all of your arrangements soon! With over 30,000 attendees you don't want to be looking for somewhere to stay the week before. Plan early for the festival so you can relax and have a great time.
Have you ever visited the Midnight Sun Festival in Fairbanks? If so, what was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments below!
Alaska is a fun place to celebrate Independence Day. Depending on where you are around the state, you may be wondering where to celebrate July 4th near me. Despite the midnight sun preventing the traditional fireworks in most places, towns across the state offer a plethora of festivities that bring communities together in joyous celebration. From parades to races and community picnics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the Fourth of July in Alaska!
Seward’s Fourth of July Festival is one of Alaska's largest and most exciting celebrations, drawing visitors from all over the state. The festivities kick off on July 3rd with a boat parade at 11:00 p.m. and a spectacular fireworks display at 12:01 a.m. on July 4th. The main event on Independence Day features the renowned Mount Marathon Race, which starts with the junior race at 9:00 a.m., the men's race at 11:00 a.m., and the women's race at 2:00 p.m. The festival also includes a vibrant parade at 1:00 p.m., live music, a bustling vendor market, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The picturesque setting of Seward, surrounded by mountains and ocean, provides a stunning backdrop for this festive and patriotic celebration!
Talkeetna’s Fourth of July Festival is a beloved annual event that kicks off with a vibrant parade at 11:00 a.m. on Main Street. The parade features a delightful array of floats, vintage cars, and lively performances from local bands and community groups, creating a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of Independence Day. After the parade, the celebration continues with a variety of activities throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food from local vendors, and arts and crafts stalls. The event also includes fun, family-friendly activities like sack races, tug-of-war, and other traditional games, ensuring a day full of entertainment for all ages.
Seldovia’s Fourth of July celebration draws crowds for a two-day extravaganza. The festivities begin on July 3rd with a community bonfire, setting the stage for the main events on July 4th. The day kicks off with a parade at 11:00 a.m. Following the parade, the town buzzes with activities, including games, contests, and a barbecue. The picturesque coastal setting of Seldovia adds to the charm, offering stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere. This celebration is a highlight of the summer, reflecting the town’s vibrant community spirit and making it a must-visit destination for Independence Day.
The Anchorage July 4th Celebration is a vibrant and patriotic event held at Delaney Park Strip from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The festivities start with a grand parade featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and community groups. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food from local vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including a petting zoo and games for kids. The event also includes a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a military ceremony to honor veterans and active-duty service members!
Wasilla's Fourth of July celebration is one of the largest in the Mat-Su Valley, offering a full day of patriotic fun. The festivities begin with a grand parade at 11:00 a.m., featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and local organizations. Following the parade, the celebration continues at Iditapark with a community picnic, live music, and a variety of food vendors. Family-friendly activities, including games and contests, ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Valdez’s Fourth of July Celebration is a full day of festivities, starting early in the morning and continuing into the night. The day begins with a community breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and a patriotic parade at 11:00 a.m. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including sack races, tug-of-war, and a pie-eating contest held at the John Kelsey Dock. Live music and food vendors add to the festive atmosphere.
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7. Pioneer Park 4th of July Community Celebration in Fairbanks
Fairbanks celebrates the Fourth of July with a vibrant community event at Pioneer Park. The flag ceremony will kick off the events at 1:00 p.m. and continue until late afternoon, featuring a variety of family-friendly activities. The celebration includes live music performances, a classic car show, and a range of food vendors offering delicious treats. Attendees can also enjoy historical displays, children’s games, and a grand parade through the park.
Regardless of where you are, if you’re asking where to celebrate July 4th near me, one of these great options is a fun place to start! Let us know in the comments below how you’re celebrating this year.
Looking for somewhere to spend the night after the excitement? We love the options on VRBO.
With its enchanting winter landscapes, Alaska offers some of the most magical Christmas light displays that will fill your heart with holiday cheer. Each of these Christmas lights in Alaska offers a unique way to experience the joy and magic of the holiday season. Here are seven must-visit Christmas light displays in Alaska:
The garden hosts a holiday light walk where visitors enjoy stunning blue lights and other festive decorations. This serene setting is perfect for those looking for a peaceful holiday experience.
This park is transformed into a charming winter wonderland with its Christmas lights adding a nice touch to the snow-covered landscape. It's an idyllic setting that embodies the spirit of Christmas in Alaska.
Known for the "Bright Up the Night" event, this is Alaska’s largest drive-through holiday light display. Visitors can drive through over a mile of light displays, making it a unique and enchanting experience. These drive-through Christmas lights in Alaska are a must-see.
During the holiday months, Anchorage transforms into a brightly lit city. The town is adorned with cheerful lights, and the Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony in the Town Square is a significant event. The large Christmas tree decorated with lights and a star on top is a sight to behold. Christmas lights in Anchorage look amazing!
During the holidays, Kenai goes big with lavish lights, wreaths, and decorations. The town is known for its fun activities and parades, making it an ideal place to celebrate the festive season with family. And don’t forget the huge fireworks display! This is a great place to celebrate Christmas in Alaska.
The Santa train departing from the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum is a highlight of Fairbanks' Christmas celebrations. The city also hosts the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra and the Design Alaska Holiday Concert, alongside a spectacular Celebration of Lights Fireworks.
The Alaska Zoo hosts Zoo Lights, an annual festival of custom light displays. This event brightens the dark winter nights and offers a unique way to enjoy festive lights in a zoological setting. The Zoo Lights are from late November through the first weekend in March, so there is plenty of time to see them!
Have you ever seen these Christmas lights in Alaska? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! Need to bundle up for the cold weather? We love REI!
