6 Can’t-Miss Food Festivals in Alaska
Stretching out into the Bering Sea with islands dribbling out from the mainland, Alaska offers a wealth of seafood and other unique foodie finds. Make the most of the Land of the Midnight Sun by attending one of these fun Alaska food festivals taking place around the state.
Alyeska Resort Annual Blueberry Festival
Girdwood
Ready to try your hand (or stomach) at downing piles of blueberry pie? That’s just one of the many traditional events at the Alyeska Resort Annual Blueberry Festival, which has been held every year in the late summer for more than a decade. Chairlifts take eager berry pickers up the mountainside to track down some of the best berries. The festival also features a friendly competition for who can come up with the best savory and sweet blueberry dishes. Each concoction is judged on appearance, taste and creativity – so you’re sure to be inspired by some of the festival’s blueberry-themed recipes.
Great Alaska Beer & Barley Wine Festival
Anchorage
Beer enthusiasts rejoice! Alaska has two major festivals just for brews in all their varieties. The Great Alaska Beer & Barley Wine Festival, held in January, draws breweries from across the state and even from across the globe to introduce festivalgoers to some top brews. Have your tasting cup ready to sample something new or try a twist on a favorite flavor like American- and German-style wheat beers, smoked or steamed beers, and much more.
See more: Top 10 Craft Beer Cities Around the U.S.
Great Alaska Craft Beer & Home Brew Festival
Haines
From blonde ales to light lagers, hard ciders, sour beers and everything in between, the Great Alaska Craft Beer & Home Brew Festival has been serving up inventive, expertly made brews for almost three decades each May. As the oldest craft beer festival in the state, activities have grown to include a Gourmet Brewers’ Dinner (tickets sell out fast), a Home Brew Competition, and the Slammin’ Salmon 5K & 10K Fun Run. Keep in mind, it’s all about the beer here – no children or infants permitted.
Kake Dog Salmon Festival
Kake
South of Juneau and hugging island coastline, Kake draws visitors from around the globe to kick back with locals while enjoying Alaska’s beauty. Residents and visitors alike come out to celebrate the Kake Dog Salmon Festival, which pays homage to Mother Nature’s bounty. Held in late summer, the festival includes entertainment, activities and, of course, food. While there are free hot dogs and hamburgers, make sure to try more traditional fare, too, like just-grilled halibut steaks. The festival’s unique activities include quirky contests like the Tug of Oar (both teams are in opposite sides of a boat), salmon filleting and even a chum toss.
See more: Tasting the Last Frontier: How Alaska Became a Foodie Destination
Kodiak Crab Festival
Kodiak
Once known as the King Crab Festival, this all-out party dates all the way back to 1958. Today, the Kodiak Crab Festival serves up down-home fair food like beer and brats, funnel cakes, and fish and chips. The namesake crab, which was once a must-have at the festival, is usually available for visitors to sample. Take your pick from amusement park rides and remember to find your seat early for the parade. There’s a Grand Parade followed by the Shrimp Parade (for participants age 10 and under). For something truly unique, sign up for the Rotary Fish Toss. This festival is usually held over Memorial Day weekend.
Sitka Seafood Festival
Sitka
With strong ties to the fishing industry, the community of Sitka decided to hold an annual celebration all about the culture, heritage and flavors of seafood. Founded in 2010, the community-led Sitka Seafood Festival draws residents and out-of-towners alike. Taking place in the early fall, the opening night of the festival includes a five-course, seafood-themed dinner. On the second day, enjoy live music, entertainment, and informational exhibitions on how to prepare and cook seafood.