Summer Solstice Celebrations
There’s no better time to visit Anchorage than during summer solstice. Celebrations take place throughout the month, making your stay even more special. June 21 marks 22 incredible hours of daylight, and you can bet the locals will help you make the most of the experience. The primary celebration takes place June 23 with the Hero Games and Solstice Festival in the town square where you’ll be treated to musicians, performers, and artists welcoming the summer months.
At the Children’s Rainbow Factory, you’ll find a massive sandbox, pool made out of a kayak, and puppet shows. The Hero Games is where first responders including police, military units, and firefighters battle it out in events like the ladder rescue to determine who’s the fastest.
A Summer to Remember
June is also the season for the Mayor’s Marathon and Half Marathon. There’s a race for all ages and abilities, including a children’s, 5k, and 10k option. The route is gorgeous and usually peppered with a few wildlife sightings from moose to bald eagles. You’ll also get an incredible view of Anchorage.
Prefer to hike? Journey up Flattop Mountain and you’ll likely wander into a pop-up summer solstice party at the summit. From concerts at the Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria throughout June to the parties at Chilkoot Charlie’s, the Anchorage Downtown Partnership puts on a series of summer concerts including family-friendly options at Petrovitch Park you don’t want to miss.
How are you starting your summer?