Experience the Best of Alaska’s Seasonal Events
Alaska’s fall festivals vibrantly celebrate the state’s rich traditions and natural beauty.
From the iconic Alaska State Fair in Palmer, where giant pumpkins and cabbages steal the show, to Juneau’s Capital Brewfest, which highlights the best of Alaska’s craft beer scene, these events offer something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying German fare at Alyeska Resort’s Oktoberfest or exploring the unique character of smaller community festivals, Alaska’s fall season provides the perfect backdrop of golden leaves and snow-capped mountains for an unforgettable experience.
Iconic Locations for Fall Festivals
Alaska’s fall festivals showcase the state’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. These events bring communities together to celebrate the changing seasons with unique activities, local traditions, and performances by local talent.
Anchorage’s Vibrant Celebrations
Alaska Botanical Garden Fall Festival
Location: Anchorage, AK
Dates: September 14-15, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
Theme: Autumn Harvest & Garden Fun
The Alaska Botanical Garden Fall Festival in Anchorage celebrates Alaska’s autumn bounty. It is set within lush gardens that burst with color during the fall season. Visitors can explore pumpkin carving contests, apple pressing demonstrations, and guided nature walks that highlight the vibrant foliage. The festival also features live music from local bands such as Blackwater Railroad Company and Spiff & Fifi. Local food vendors, including 49th State Brewing Company and Moose’s Tooth, offer seasonal dishes and craft beer tastings that capture the flavors of fall.
This year’s festival is sponsored by Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, which supports community initiatives like the garden festival. Guests can also participate in workshops led by well-known local gardeners like Jane Baldwin from Jane’s Nursery, who will be sharing tips on fall planting and garden maintenance.
Girdwood Fall Festival
Location: Girdwood, AK
Date: September 21, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 3,000
Theme: Mountain Harvest & Community Celebration
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Chugach Mountains, the Girdwood Fall Festival is a true celebration of the season. This festival is famous for its scenic chairlift rides, which provide breathtaking views of the autumn landscape. At the heart of the festival is a bustling farmers market featuring local produce from Arctic Organics and artisan crafts from Girdwood Fine Arts Guild. The festival also includes art shows where local artists like David Rosenthal showcase their landscape paintings inspired by Alaska’s natural beauty.
Live performances by bands like Hope Social Club and Wynchester keep the atmosphere lively, while kids enjoy face painting, bouncy castles, and storytelling sessions led by local author Tom Kizzia, known for his book Pilgrim’s Wilderness. The event is sponsored by Alyeska Resort and First National Bank Alaska, both of which are key supporters of the Girdwood community.
The Charm of Fall in Fairbanks
Tanana Valley State Fair
Location: Fairbanks, AK
Dates: August 2-11, 2024
Attendees: Over 30,000
Theme: Agricultural Heritage & Family Fun
The Tanana Valley State Fair is one of Alaska’s oldest and most beloved fairs, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with ten days of events and activities. Visitors can explore agricultural exhibits featuring award-winning produce and livestock, with this year’s Best in Show for giant vegetables awarded to John Parker for his massive 1,200-pound pumpkin. Livestock shows include competitions for cattle, pigs, and poultry, showcasing the finest animals from around the state.
Musical entertainment is provided by local acts such as Hobo Jim, Alaska’s official state balladeer, and Emily Anderson, a rising star known for her soulful performances. The fair also features a rodeo sponsored by Doyon, Limited, with thrilling bull-riding and barrel-racing events. Carnival rides, food vendors like The Hungry Robot serving up wood-fired pizzas, and a nightly fireworks display ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
HarvestFest at Chena Hot Springs Resort
Location: Fairbanks, AK
Date: October 5, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Farm-to-Table & Relaxation
The HarvestFest at Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique blend of farm-to-table dining and relaxation. Guests can tour the resort’s greenhouses, where they can pick fresh vegetables and herbs to take home or enjoy during the festival’s cooking classes. These classes are led by celebrated local chef Maya Wilson, author of The Alaska From Scratch Cookbook, who teaches attendees how to prepare seasonal dishes using local ingredients.
The festival culminates in a farm-to-table dinner hosted by Chena Hot Springs Resort, featuring a menu of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The event also includes a performance by Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra, providing a serene soundtrack to the evening. Attendees can relax in the resort’s natural hot springs, making this a perfect fall getaway. The festival is sponsored by Fairbanks Community Food Bank, which benefits from the event’s proceeds.
Juneau’s Rich Cultural Tapestry
Juneau Food Festival
Location: Juneau, AK
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
Theme: Alaskan Cuisine & Culinary Arts
The Juneau Food Festival is a culinary celebration that brings together the best of Alaskan cuisine. This event is a showcase for local chefs, including Lionel Uddipa of Salt and Jeff Kinneeveauk of Alaskan Brewing Co., who demonstrate how to prepare gourmet dishes using fresh Alaskan seafood, wild game, and foraged ingredients. Attendees can sample dishes like king crab legs, venison stew, and wild mushroom risotto, paired with locally brewed beers and spirits.
This year’s festival also features cooking competitions, where chefs vie for the title of Juneau’s Best Chef, a prestigious award that went to Chef Amy Foote last year for her innovative use of local ingredients. Live music performances by The Panhandle Crabgrass Revival Band and The Great Alaska Bluegrass Band add to the festive atmosphere. The event is sponsored by Sealaska Corporation and Alaska Seaplanes, both strong supporters of Juneau’s cultural events.
Alaska Native Heritage Center Fall Gathering
Location: Juneau, AK
Date: October 12, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,500
Theme: Native Culture & Traditions
The Alaska Native Heritage Center Fall Gathering is a deeply cultural event that honors the traditions of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. The festival features performances by Native dance groups such as The Git-Hoan Dancers and Yup’ik Drummers and Dancers, who share their heritage through song and movement. Visitors can participate in storytelling sessions led by Rosita Worl, President of Sealaska Heritage Institute, and learn about the rich history and traditions of Alaska’s Native communities.
Craft demonstrations include traditional basket weaving by master artist Delores Churchill and totem carving by Nathan Jackson, one of Alaska’s most renowned Tlingit carvers. Attendees can also sample traditional foods like smoked salmon, seal oil, and akutaq (Eskimo ice cream), prepared by local culinary experts. The event is sponsored by First Alaskans Institute and NANA Development Corporation.
Witnessing Seward’s Autumn Glory
OctoberFish at the Alaska SeaLife Center
Location: Seward, AK
Date: October 19, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 1,500
Theme: Marine Education & Family Fun
OctoberFish at the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward is a family-friendly event that combines marine education with festive fall activities. This event offers visitors the chance to explore touch tanks, participate in seal feedings, and learn about marine conservation from experts like Dr. Brenda Konar, a marine biologist specializing in Arctic marine ecosystems. The festival includes a costume contest for kids, where participants dress as their favorite sea creatures, with prizes provided by The Alaska Sealife Center.
Live music by local bands like The Super Saturated Sugar Strings and Seward’s Saltwater Soldiers adds to the fun, while food vendors offer seafood specialties like halibut tacos and crab bisque. Local sponsors, including Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marine Tours, support the event by offering discounted wildlife cruises during the festival.
Seward Music and Arts Festival
Location: Seward, AK
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Local Art & Music
The Seward Music and Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of Alaskan creativity, set against the picturesque backdrop of Seward’s small boat harbor. The festival features live performances by Alaskan musicians such as Denali Cooks and Hannah Yoter Band, who bring a mix of folk, rock, and bluegrass to the stage. Local artists like Debra Drexler and Michael Conti display their work, including paintings, sculptures, and photography that capture the spirit of Alaska.
Food stalls offer regional specialties like smoked salmon and reindeer sausages, and craft vendors sell handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles. The event is sponsored by Spenard Builders Supply and Alaska Railroad, both of which play a significant role in supporting local arts and culture.
Palmer’s Harvest Highlights
Alaska State Fair
Location: Palmer, AK
Dates: August 22 – September 2, 2024
Attendees: Over 300,000
Theme: Statewide Celebration & Agricultural Showcase
The Alaska State Fair in Palmer is the state’s largest and most iconic event, drawing visitors from all corners of Alaska. This year’s fair will once again showcase its famous giant vegetables, with last year’s Grand Champion pumpkin weighing in at a record-breaking 2,147 pounds, grown by Dale Marshall. The livestock competitions are a major attraction, featuring award-winning cattle, pigs, and poultry.
Concerts by nationally recognized artists like Kip Moore and Gabby Barrett highlight the entertainment offerings, while local favorites like Hobo Jim and I Like Robots bring their Alaskan flair to the stage. The fair also includes a rodeo sponsored by Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union, and food vendors like Alaska Cheesesteak Company serve up a wide range of delicious treats. The fair’s main sponsor, Matanuska Telephone Association (MTA), plays a key role in supporting this grand event.
Harvest Moon Festival at Musk Ox Farm
Location: Palmer, AK
Date: September 14, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 1,000
Theme: Farm Life & Autumn Traditions
The Harvest Moon Festival at Musk Ox Farm is a delightful celebration of Alaska’s agricultural heritage. Set on a historic farm, the event offers hayrides, pumpkin picking, and musk ox wool spinning demonstrations by local fiber artists. Visitors can watch the farm’s musk oxen and learn about the importance of qiviut, the luxurious wool harvested from these animals.
Local musicians, including Todd Grebe & Cold Country and The Carhartt Brothers, provide live entertainment, while food vendors like Turkey Red serve farm-to-table meals featuring fresh, local ingredients. The festival also includes a corn maze and face painting for kids, making it a perfect family outing. Sponsored by Alaska Farmland Trust and Alaska Grown, the festival supports the preservation of Alaska’s agricultural lands.
Culinary Delights and Local Brews
Alaska’s fall festivals treat visitors to a tasty journey through the state’s seasonal flavors and craft beverages. From fresh seafood to wild game, local ingredients shine in creative dishes and drinks that capture the essence of autumn in the Last Frontier.
Savoring Alaska’s Seasonal Flavors
Taste of Homer
Location: Homer, AK
Dates: September 14-15, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,500
Theme: Local Cuisine & Community Celebration
The Taste of Homer festival is a culinary event that highlights the rich bounty of Kachemak Bay. Local chefs, including Mandy Dixon of La Baleine Café and Patrick Driscoll of AJ’s OldTown Steakhouse, present dishes made from fresh halibut, salmon, and crab. Festival-goers can enjoy hearty stews, seafood chowders, and grilled dishes that reflect the flavors of the region.
Wild game such as moose and caribou features prominently in many dishes, with Chef Jesse Cook of Fresh Sourdough Express earning accolades last year for his savory caribou pie. The event also features a bake sale offering treats made with local berries, such as blueberry pies and fireweed jelly, showcasing the area’s seasonal produce. The festival is sponsored by Homer Electric Association and South Peninsula Hospital.
Tasting Tours: From Beer to Hot Chocolate
Alaska Craft Brew and Barley Wine Festival
Location: Anchorage, AK
Dates: October 4-5, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 3,000
Theme: Craft Beer & Fall Flavors
The Alaska Craft Brew and Barley Wine Festival is the premier event for beer enthusiasts in Alaska. Held in Anchorage, this festival features over 30 Alaskan breweries, including King Street Brewing Company and Midnight Sun Brewing Co. Visitors can sample a wide range of brews, from fall-inspired pumpkin ales to spruce tip IPAs.
Last year’s Best in Show award went to Broken Tooth Brewing for their innovative spruce tip ale, which perfectly captured the essence of the Alaskan wilderness. The event also includes beer and food pairings, with local chefs like Al Levinsohn of Kincaid Grill creating dishes that complement the beers on offer. The festival is sponsored by Alaska Airlines and K&L Distributors, both of which contribute to the growth of Alaska’s craft beer scene.
Fairbanks Hot Chocolate Festival
Location: Fairbanks, AK
Date: November 9, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Hot Chocolate & Community Fun
The Fairbanks Hot Chocolate Festival is a cozy celebration perfect for warming up on a chilly autumn day. Local cafes and chocolatiers, such as The Fudge Pot and Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream, compete to create the most decadent hot chocolate, with flavors like birch caramel and wild rose adding a unique Alaskan twist.
Last year’s People’s Choice Award went to Chena Hot Springs Café for their indulgent triple-chocolate hot cocoa with a hint of cinnamon. The festival includes family-friendly activities like cookie decorating and marshmallow roasting, making it a sweet experience for visitors of all ages. Sponsored by Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. and The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, this event is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Artistic and Musical Expression
Alaska’s fall festivals celebrate creativity through vibrant art displays and lively music performances. These events showcase local talent and cultural influences, blending traditional and contemporary styles.
Live Music and Performances
Alaska Folk Festival
Location: Juneau, AK
Dates: April 2024
Attendees: Approximately 8,000
Theme: Folk Music & Community Gathering
The Alaska Folk Festival is one of the state’s most cherished cultural events, drawing musicians and music lovers from across Alaska. This year’s lineup includes performances by well-known folk artists such as The Great Alaska Bluegrass Band and Eagle River’s Melissa Mitchell, who will be performing alongside other talented musicians from around the state.
The festival also includes workshops where attendees can learn to play traditional instruments like the fiddle or banjo, and jam sessions that invite everyone to participate in making music. The festival is supported by Alaska Airlines and Juneau Arts & Humanities Council, both of which help to keep this community-driven event thriving.
Anderson Family Music Festival
Location: Clear Air Force Station, AK
Dates: Late July 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,500
Theme: Acoustic & Americana Music
The Anderson Family Music Festival offers a mix of acoustic, bluegrass, country, and blues music, set in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. This year’s headliners include Todd Grebe & Cold Country and Bearfoot, both of whom are known for their soulful performances that resonate with the rugged Alaskan landscape.
The festival also features family-friendly activities, including a kids’ music workshop led by The Carhartt Brothers, where young attendees can learn to play simple tunes on the guitar or ukulele. The event is sponsored by Clear Sky Lodge and Nenana Ice Classic, both of which play an integral role in supporting the local music scene.
Handcrafted Arts and Crafts
Ketchikan Blueberry Arts Festival
Location: Ketchikan, AK
Dates: Early August 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
Theme: Local Art & Community Celebration
The Ketchikan Blueberry Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of art and community that transforms this coastal town into an artistic haven. Local artisans, including Alaska Eagle Arts Gallery and Ray Troll Studios, display their creations, from intricate jewelry to hand-painted ceramics.
Last year’s Best in Show award was given to Heather Lende for her stunning photography series that captures the essence of life in Southeast Alaska. The festival also includes a blueberry pie-eating contest, live music from bands like The Stomping Grounds, and a parade that winds through downtown Ketchikan. Sponsored by PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center and Tongass Trading Company, the event supports local artists and brings the community together.
Sitka WhaleFest Artisan Market
Location: Sitka, AK
Dates: November 1-3, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Marine Life & Art
Sitka’s WhaleFest isn’t just about marine life—it’s also a showcase for local artisans who draw inspiration from the ocean. The WhaleFest Artisan Market features marine-themed art and crafts from talented Alaskans, including Rebecca Poulson and Teri Rofkar, whose works are celebrated for their deep connection to Alaska’s cultural and natural heritage.
Visitors can browse a variety of items, from hand-carved wooden sculptures to intricate beadwork that reflects traditional Native Alaskan designs. The event is sponsored by Sitka Sound Science Center and Sitka Conservation Society, both of which play a key role in promoting environmental awareness through art.
Recreational Activities and Games
Alaska fall festivals offer an array of fun-filled activities and games for all ages. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly entertainment and outdoor adventures set against stunning autumn scenery.
Family-Friendly Fun and Games
Alaska State Fair
Location: Palmer, AK
Dates: August 16 – September 2, 2024
Attendees: Over 300,000
Theme: Carnival & Family Entertainment
The Alaska State Fair in Palmer is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. This year’s fair features a variety of carnival rides, from the Ferris wheel to roller coasters, and classic games like ring toss and balloon darts, with prizes sponsored by Fred Meyer. Kids can explore the petting zoo, where they can interact with farm animals such as goats, sheep, and rabbits, or take wagon rides through the pumpkin patch.
A highlight of the fair is the Giant Vegetable Contest, where visitors can marvel at enormous pumpkins, zucchinis, and cabbages. Last year’s winner, Jane Smith, took home the top prize for her 138-pound cabbage. The fair also includes live music from local bands like The Ken Peltier Band and The Rebel Blues Band, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The event is sponsored by Alaska Communications and MTA.
Outdoor Adventures Amidst the Chugach Mountains
Alyeska Resort Oktoberfest
Location: Girdwood, AK
Dates: September 27-28 & October 4-5, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Mountain Adventures & Oktoberfest Fun
The Alyeska Resort Oktoberfest offers outdoor adventures in the breathtaking Chugach Mountains. Visitors can take scenic tram rides that provide panoramic views of the golden autumn foliage, or hike trails surrounded by vibrant colors. Mountain biking tours are available for those looking for a more adrenaline-fueled experience, with routes winding through forests and along rivers.
The festival also features rock climbing clinics led by Alaska Rock Gym, where beginners can learn the basics of climbing on outdoor walls. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, guided nature walks offer opportunities to spot wildlife preparing for winter. The festival’s zip lines provide thrilling rides with stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and star-gazing events take advantage of the long fall nights. Sponsored by Alyeska Resort and Chugach Electric Association, the event is a highlight of the fall season in Girdwood.
Wildlife and Marine Life Encounters
Alaska’s fall festivals offer unique chances to see amazing animals up close. Visitors can watch bald eagles gather by the thousands and learn about whales and other sea creatures.
The Majestic Alaska Bald Eagle Festival
Alaska Bald Eagle Festival
Location: Haines, AK
Dates: November 14-17, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,000
Theme: Wildlife Viewing & Conservation
The Alaska Bald Eagle Festival in Haines is a must-visit for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Every year, over 3,000 bald eagles flock to a 4-mile stretch of the Chilkat River to feast on spawning salmon, creating a spectacular natural display. Visitors can join guided tours led by experts from the American Bald Eagle Foundation, such as Jesse Arnett, who provide insights into eagle behavior and conservation efforts.
The festival also includes wildlife photography workshops with renowned photographers like Paul Bannick, offering tips on capturing stunning images of eagles in flight. Native Alaskan art displays and cultural performances, including Tlingit storytelling by David Katzeek, enrich the event with a deep appreciation of the region’s heritage. Local restaurants like The Bamboo Room and Fireweed Restaurant offer special eagle-themed menus during the festival, featuring dishes inspired by Alaska’s wilderness.
Sitka Whalefest: A Marine Life Celebration
Sitka Whalefest
Location: Sitka, AK
Dates: November 1-3, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 2,500
Theme: Marine Biology & Community Engagement
Sitka Whalefest is a unique blend of science and celebration, focusing on the rich marine life of Southeast Alaska. Visitors can embark on whale-watching cruises led by marine biologists like Dr. Jan Straley, a leading expert on whale behavior, to spot humpbacks, orcas, and other sea mammals. These cruises offer a close-up view of these magnificent creatures, along with educational insights from the experts.
The festival also features engaging talks on marine conservation, including a keynote address by Sylvia Earle, an internationally renowned oceanographer. The Whalefest Artisan Market showcases local crafts inspired by marine life, with vendors like Island Artists Gallery displaying paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. Guests can also enjoy a seafood feast at the Sitka Sound Science Center, featuring fresh-caught Alaskan seafood prepared by local chefs. The event wraps up with a fun run/walk along Sitka’s scenic waterfront, where participants can enjoy the crisp autumn air and stunning coastal views.
Exhibitions and Vendor Experiences
Alaska’s fall festivals showcase the state’s unique culture and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore a wide range of local products and witness impressive displays of Alaskan talent.
Discover Local Vendors and Craftspeople
Make It Alaskan Festival
Location: Anchorage, AK
Dates: October 8-9, 2024
Attendees: Over 10,000
Theme: Alaskan Goods & Local Artisans
The Make It Alaskan Festival in Anchorage is a bustling marketplace that brings together the best of Alaska’s artisans and craftspeople. With over 10,000 vendors gathering at the Dena’ina Convention Center, visitors can explore countless exhibitor booths featuring Alaskan-made products, from handcrafted jewelry by Alaska Bead Company to pottery by Northwest Clayworks.
Food vendors offer local delicacies like wild berry jams, smoked salmon, and reindeer sausage, with highlights including Alaskan Sausage & Seafood and Indian Valley Meats. The festival also includes live demonstrations by local artists such as Rie Muñoz and Jon Van Zyle, who showcase their techniques in painting and printmaking. Sponsored by Anchorage Daily News and First National Bank Alaska, this event is a vibrant celebration of Alaskan craftsmanship and creativity.
Prize-worthy Exhibits and Competitions
Alaska State Fair
Location: Palmer, AK
Dates: August 16 – September 2, 2024
Attendees: Over 300,000
Theme: Agricultural Competitions & Community Pride
The Alaska State Fair is renowned for its impressive exhibits and competitions highlighting its natural bounty and community pride. Visitors can marvel at the giant vegetable displays, with this year’s Grand Champion pumpkin weighing in at a record-breaking 2,147 pounds, grown by Dale Marshall. The fair also features competitive cooking contests, where local chefs present creative recipes using salmon, halibut, and moose. Last year’s Top Chef award went to Chef Krista Pickering for her innovative moose stew recipe.
Art shows at the fair display stunning paintings and photographs of Alaska’s landscapes, with quilting exhibitions showcasing intricate designs inspired by the natural world. Visitors can vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice Awards, adding to the fun and engagement of the event. The fair is sponsored by Alaska Airlines and Matanuska Telephone Association (MTA), both of which support this iconic Alaskan event.
Alaska’s fall festivals celebrate the state’s diverse culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Whether savoring local cuisine, enjoying outdoor adventures, or immersing yourself in the arts, these events offer something for everyone to enjoy.
Planning Your Trip
Whether you’re marveling at giant vegetables at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer, savoring craft brews at the Capital Brewfest in Juneau, or foraging for wild mushrooms at Cordova’s Fungus Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
To fully immerse yourself in Alaska’s fall beauty, consider extending your stay by booking a vacation rental on Lake.com. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cabin near a vibrant festival or a serene lakeside retreat to unwind after a day of exploring, Lake.com offers a variety of options to suit your needs. Enjoy the comfort of home while experiencing Alaska’s stunning autumn scenery, from golden aspen groves to crystal-clear lakes reflecting the season’s rich colors.
Start planning your trip today by browsing vacation rentals on Lake.com, and make your Alaska fall festival adventure truly unforgettable.
