Winter brings out the best of Anchorage. Under a blanket of snow, the city comes alive with festivals exploring regional history, lively tributes to Indigenous culture, decades-old sled dog races, and comfort food best enjoyed with friends and family. Here, Alaska’s adventurous spirit is felt in the traditions of diverse communities and seasonal occasions that offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re taking in the shimmering colors of the aurora borealis from a snowmobile or enjoying films by up-and-coming artists at the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, there’s no shortage of events to make a winter in Anchorage one for the books.
Heyi Days
Nov. 27-Dec. 31, 2026
Translating to “winter” in Dena’ina Athabascan, the name of this month-long celebration honors Anchorage’s First People — “heyi” is the Dena’ina word for winter. It’s prime time to enjoy winter outdoors, check out local arts markets, and enjoy seasonal community events like solstice. There’s also delicious food left and right, from Alaska halibut tacos to Himalayan curries and steamed dumplings best enjoyed by an outdoor fire. While unique events unfold each day, the whole city comes alive with lights and music. Many parks host ice rinks and ski loops, some of which give you an up-close look at Anchorage’s wildlife, from moose to hares to foxes.
Anchorage International Film Festival
Dec. 4-13, 2026
Alaska’s biggest celebration of independent film is a can’t-miss event for filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Along with screenings of short and feature-length projects, guests can attend Q&A sessions and panel discussions or participate in workshops and networking events. While artists from all over the world screen their works here, the festival is especially focused on growing and sustaining Alaska’s film community, as well as providing a greater platform for Indigenous voices.
Solstice Tree Tour
Dec. 12, 2026
Hosted by the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage, this winter solstice celebration turns Kincaid Park into a winter wonderland, with visitors passing dozens of decorated trees and colorful lights in the park’s Mize Loop (just remember your skis or snowshoes!). After finishing the 1.5-mile loop, guests are encouraged to grab free hot chocolate and s’mores, enjoy live music, and vote on their favorite tree. Younger attendees can crawl through illuminated tunnels set up throughout the park while adults sip drinks from Raven’s Ring Brewery by the warming barrels.
Anchorage Folk Festival
Jan. 21-31, 2027
For 37 years and counting, this free event has showcased up-and-coming artists and helped build community through music. During “Folk Week,” venues around town host local and visiting artists, while music workshops are held on the weekends at University of Alaska Anchorage’s Wendy Williamson Auditorium. There are many other folksy events to participate in, too, from a barn dance to a ukulele jam to a banjo contest. Also, an annual fundraiser concert helps support future editions of the festival, with tickets starting at $20.
Alaska Craft Brew & Barley Wine Festival
Jan. 30, 2027
Anchorage is a city that loves its brews, so it’s only right that they be celebrated! Each year, the Brewers Guild of Alaska partners with Peak 2 Peak Events to host this epic ode to beers, ciders, wines, meads, and more. Award-winning brewers from across the state converge at the Dena’ina Center for a day of beverage tasting, hearty grub, games, and live music. Over 200 different drinks are available to try, including a wide selection of nonalcoholic options. Plus, there’s a chance to take home fun swag like beanies, socks, koozies, and stainless-steel pint glasses.
Fur Rendezvous
Feb. 25-March 7, 2027
For more than 90 years, “Fur Rondy” has brought Anchorage to life with events and activities all over the city. The festival is inspired by the rendezvous that Alaska’s fur trappers and miners had each winter, sharing stories and drinks after months of isolation in the wilderness. Fur Rondy celebrates the region’s unique history through all kinds of annual traditions, from sled dog races to snow sculptures to the Frostbite Footrace (where wintery costumes are encouraged). The fest is even home to the world’s largest Outhouse Races, which requires teams to push festive latrines through a race course.
Iditarod Sled Dog Race
March 6, 2027
Each year, hundreds of dogs gear up on the first Saturday of March for the ceremonial start of the “Last Great Race on Earth”: a 1,000-mile course that starts on 4th Avenue and D Street in downtown Anchorage and goes all the way to Nome. There are plenty of spots around town to watch the action, from Cordova Street and 16th Avenue (the steepest hill of the day) to the scenic University Lake near the University of Alaska Anchorage campus. Also, many mushers open up their kennels to the public for tours (and sometimes even tutorials!) all year long.
Aurora Viewing
August-April
Anchorage is the perfect place to take in the awesome beauty of the aurora borealis, a.k.a. the northern lights, with prime viewing locations all over the city. From Point Woronzof, a coastal park on the northwestern edge of town, to the Eagle River Nature Center at one of the entrances to Chugach State Park, you can easily pick and choose the viewing experience that works best for you. There are also numerous tour services to help visitors make the most of their Anchorage winter experience, including adventures that combine the lights with dogsledding and snowmobiling.