...more, Settler’s Bay to Yentna Station Roadhouse, Mushing in Alaska is often a family activity, with entire households devoted to the feeding, training, and care of dog kennels that can house more than 100 canines! 7-10 days is the most common. The one-mile display spans the entire length of the fairgrounds and is synced to classic Christmas music. Help keep Palmer at its best! The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Please review the official website or check with the event organizer when planning to attend the event. You will find a lot of things to see and activities to do in this Top 6 Palmer, Alaska Events 1. Come celebrate gardening, art and music in beautiful downtown Palmer, Alaska, during the one day festival the Palmer Midsummer Garden and Art Faire, PMGAF. The most intimate multi-day cruise option. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, Guides to the best locations around the state to view wildlife. This reindeer farm isn't far outside of Anchorage and the drive is beautiful (of course). While the traditional Alaska State Fair is closed for the first time since 1942 due to COVID-19 concerns, the new Mat-Su Fall Festival is filling the void just outside of Palmer. Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. Cruises and land tours are great ways to see Alaska. The Musk Ox Farm has hosted the “Running with the Bulls” trail race on the first Sunday in August since 2002. ...more. See Who's Going to Alaska State Fair 2021 in Palmer, AK! Will the muni tank its defense of Anchorage’s right to recall Assemblyman Rivera. This one-of-a-kind event brings out families and friends alike for an evening of fun that is enhanced by the beauty of an Alaskan winter. Palmer was Receive breaking stories and analysis from the Alaska Watchman directly to your inbox for free. Travel on a set itinerary with lodging and tours booked in advance. You can catch the start of the… perspective, we are committed to the highest standards of journalism and ethical reporting. Coming from a broadly Judeo-Christian This year’s three-day Colony Christmas event is slightly different, but the historic farming community is determined to light up the streets and the sky with Christmas cheer. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. There’s a limit of two clubs per person, but teams can share their clubs (a putter and seven iron are… Every Fri day from late May through August, vis it the pop u lar open-air mar ket in down town Palmer. 11K likes. Don’t miss out on this uniquely Alaskan one-of-a-kind race! See famous giant cabbages and beautiful flower gardens, taste unique Alaskan foods, shop for local arts and crafts. Colony Christmas is sponsored by the Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce, but includes participation by area churches, nonprofits and other groups who add to the celebration. Alaska also hosts the Fur Rendezvous Festival, an icy celebration to thaw the chill of the state’s famous frozen winters. Festival in downtown Palmer! For those willing to spend a few bucks, the Alaska State Fairgrounds is hosting The Christmas Factory, a holiday-themed event that features Santa and his elves in the mailroom, a toy factory, sleigh rides on Santa’s toy topped sled, cookies and cocoa with Mrs. Claus and much more. Joel is an award winning journalist and has been reporting for over 20 years, He is a proud father of 8 children, and lives in Palmer, Alaska. Downtown Palmer, Alaska ABOUT The Palmer Museum Garden and Art Faire is a celebration of local art, gardening, food and music. Will this be the year Murkowski goes all in for Democrats extreme social agenda? Due to COVID concerns the Chamber cancelled its arts and crafts fair at the Palmer Train Depot and the Mat-Su Borough gymnasium and also scratched its indoor movie show. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. Judge says she has no authority to block recall of Anchorage Assemblyman Rivera. Reindeer Farm: Fall festival fun! Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. This year’s PMGAF will be held on Saturday, July 9th, beginning OUR MISSION To provide leadership that fosters growth and prosperity by ensuring the Greater Palmer area is the best place to operate and grow a business, In an effort to safely host smaller events that carry on the traditions of the Alaska State Fair while minimizing health risk, the Fair will host a Harvest Fest at the fairgrounds Labor Day weekend, from Friday, September 4 … Assemblyman may have to publicly acknowledge that Anchorage voters have a right to recall him, Assembly looks to enshrine mandatory masks in Anchorage code, As China grows ever more powerful, Alaska must act shrewdly. Mike Dunleavy introduced Senate Bill 56 on Jan. 25 to extend Alaska’s public health disaster declaration another six months. Anchorage Superior Judge Dani Crosby issued an order on Jan. 25 that gave the green light to an effort to recall Anchorage Assembly Chair... After two widely reported anaphylactic reactions within the first few days of rolling out the COVID vaccine, there has been little information from the... Gov. Join us for an Alaskan tradition. Highlights plus less visited destinations. There will be 2 stages with Local talent and the hours will be Wed 12pm-9pm, Thu 3pm-11pm, Fri 3pm Concerts, sports, arts, live music, nightlife, theatre and comedy shows in Palmer, Alaska. Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. Plus, it’s definitely a must-stop for any hot rod lover or racing fan: this is arguably the most picturesque… Mat-Su Valley Fiber Festival is a non-profit organization of artists, producers, and teachers who are dedicated to sharing their love of all things fiber. Small town Palmer, Alaska, is renowned for the way it celebrates the run up to Christmas. Alaska Palmer Festival Cart Load comments × Post a comment as Emoticons [tongue_smile] [happybirthday] Comment Text Cancel Post comment × Your comment has been submitted. There's a lot to do in Alaska's Mat-Su Valley. Each year, hundreds of thousands of fairgoers enjoyed nightly concerts featuring headline entertainers in the AT&T Concert Series, carnival rides and games, hundreds of… Book your tickets online for the top things to do in Palmer, Alaska on Tripadvisor: See 8,219 traveler reviews and photos of Palmer tourist attractions. Overwhelmed by choices? Palmer is also home to Alaska Bible College, Alaska's only accredited school of theology and ministry, and Matanuska-Susitna College, an extended college of the University of Alaska Anchorage. Gov. Started in 2002 , this summer-long festival celebrates downtown Palmer and the people and businesses that make the town great. In its 30th year in 2013, the race features teams of two snowmobile racers riding from Wasilla to Nome to Fairbanks, covering more than 2,000 miles of rugged Alaskan terrain. Started by the Chamber of Commerce, this icy links tournament draws some 100 foul-weather golfers for a 9‑hole tourney. Colony Days Among the list of Palmer, Alaska, upcoming events is Colony Days. Please consider becoming a regular supporter. Find a comprehensive view of events in Palmer for November and December 2020 (updated daily). Our reports look to inform and equip Alaskans to effectively engage the culture for the common good. Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. Throughout the family-friendly festival the town will be decked in lights and teeming with Christmas carolers, horse drawn sleigh rides, a reindeer train, photos and hot cocoa with Santa and a 5K race. With a chilly history of over 75 years, it’s an event filled with … The Fairground will also feature “Bright Up the Night,” the largest drive through holiday light display in Alaska. Palmer Alaska News, Palmer, Alaska. It is easy to get to by road and is often a stop for tourists when visiting wider Alaska. Getting to the heart and soul of Christmas, one of the newest exhibits is a high-end “Nativity of Jesus” scene in the town center that includes baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph and other classic figures commemorating the birth of Christ. Teenagers from these families, plus other teens who have stumbled into the world of mushing, compete in a 160-mile race the weekend prior to the start of the Iditarod. This year’s three-day Colony Christmas event is slightly different, but the historic farming community is determined to light up the streets and the sky with Christmas cheer. The Alaska Railroad is your transportation method. Every Friday from late May through August, visit the popular open-air market in downtown Palmer. In addition, there’s the “smoosh race” which entails teams of four strapping into a single set of eight-foot skies and racing through the town – costumes are encouraged. There is also the Palmer Alaska Job Corps , 800 E. Lynn Martin Drive, across from the Hageland airfield. Please check your email to verify your subscription. Palmer Chamber, Palmer, Alaska. Facebook is showing information to help you better understand the purpose of a The Alaska Watchman aims to raise awareness of key issues affecting Alaskans. Self-drive vacations. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. The Alaska Northstars Rocketry Club launches a rocket at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020 during the Pyrah's fall harvest festival. There was a problem with your submission. Every year as the holidays approach, the small town of Palmer celebrates a unique piece of Alaskan history by throwing an epic Christmas festival. This private collection is being made available for public display by St. Michael Church in Palmer. Another fun event coming up is the Palmer Midsummer Garden & Art Fair Rhubarb Rumble, July 9, 2016 in downtown Palmer. There are markets, food, arts, contests, races and reindeers, all in honour of the Alaskan cold. The annual event runs Dec. 11-13 and includes a downtown parade and fireworks show on Dec. 12. This Alaska Festival will have fine art, fine craft, crafts, commercial/retail and corp./information exhibitors, and tba food booths. ...more, One week after the town of Willow hosts the Iditarod Sled Dog Restart, locals take advantage of the groomed trail by playing golf on it! All donations go directly to supporting and expanding our news coverage. Celebrate time-honored tradition at the biggest summer festival in town! In mid-February, the Mat-Su Valley hosts the beginning of the longest and toughest snowmobile race event in the world: the Iron Dog. ...more, Come see the thrill of human ingenuity surrounded by the majesty of Mother Nature. 4,486 were here. Liberals, empowered by the mainstream press and social media giants, are newly emboldened to silence conservatives all across the country. 29 talking about this. Free personal GPS–driven travel guide to Alaska. This year it is June 8-10, 2018! We may be a 'small' town, but we're community oriented, surrounded by mountains, and full of life! 2-5 day small ship explorations. “We look forward to seeing Colony Christmas patrons geared up and ready for a fun weekend of festive outdoor fun.”. Let us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska summer vacation cost? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The City of Palmer is … ...more, Every Friday from late May through August, visit the popular open-air market in downtown Palmer. Alaska’s Annual Strawberry Festival Belongs On Your Summertime Bucket List We have a strong agricultural community here in Alaska. The festival usually begins at the end of August and is a major attraction for the people. Hello Great Alaska Music Festival fans! As music lovers, we have always had a long special commitment to bringing high quality music to Alaska. See Alaska's highlights by railroad or motorcoach in a group of up to 50, Travel in small groups, stay at exclusive wilderness lodges, and spend more time outdoors, All-inclusive multi-day vacation packages at a remote wilderness lodge, Travel with a professional photographer to the best photo locations around the state, Trips range from backpacking, rafting, to upscale remote lodge retreats, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. Giant Vegetable Exhibits. ALASKA STATE FAIR. 2.8K likes. Alaska Railroad: Adventure Class or Goldstar Dome Car Service? Please keep your comments respectful. Click here to support the Alaska Watchman. The upcoming Anchorage Assembly meeting might be a bit awkward for Chair Felix Rivera, for on that night he will be asked to formally... Several Anchorage Assembly members want to permanently enshrine the mandatory wearing of facemasks in city code. Sponsorship. Other outside activities include disc golf, an outdoor skating rink, antler and snowball toss competitions for kids and a Christmas cornhole tournament. Small town Palmer, Alaska, is renowned for the way it celebrates the run up to Christmas. At this drag racing track in Palmer — the only International Hot Rod Association track in Alaska, and the only NASCAR sanctioned oval track in the state, you can have a relaxing but thrilling day of entertainment, with races every weekend all summer long. It’s a small field, usually under 15 people, and the race takes under 24 hours. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. A fun time for family and Earth alike. Sea ice crossings, the frozen Yukon River, and treacherous passes await these rugged snowmobilers, who don’t slow down for anything; some of We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. Here in Alaska, Rep. David... You have entered an incorrect email address! Please try again. Parades, friendly competitions Bright up the Night is Alaska’s largest drive through Holiday light display. Held the second weekend in June, the town of Palmer commemorates the area’s original farmers, and Palmer’s colony history. The Musk Ox Farm has hosted the “Running with the Bulls” trail race on the first Sunday in August…. Started in 2002, this summer-long festival celebrates downtown Palmer and the people and businesses that make the town great. Car, train, or group tour. Welcome to the City of Palmer Facebook page. The annual event runs Dec. 11-13 and includes a downtown parade and […] According to participants, the ball bounces on groomed snow just like on real grass. 12 days packed with food, entertainment & fun! Assembly members Meg Zaletel, Suzanne LaFrance and John... Joel is Editor-in-Chief of the Alaska Watchman. Which one is right for you? Every fall, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley becomes the headquarters for nearly 500 diverse vendors, rides, stellar entertainment, acrobats and animals, educational exhibits, ridiculously large vegetables, beautiful gardens and food to please every palate. Alaska State Fairgrounds, Palmer, Alaska Disclaimer: Event details may change at any time. Join us for big events like the Iditarod and Palmer's Colony Days and check our calendar for things to do all year. Visit September to April to see the Northern Lights, Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage, How to Travel to Alaska in January and February, The Best Large Family & Group Vacations in Alaska, How to Get from Anchorage to Your Cruise Port in Whittier or Seward (or the reverse!). There will also be opportunities to buy or bid on Christmas trees, enjoy free hot cocoa, order food from an assortment of food truck vendors and slake your thirst at the grand opening of Bleeding Heart Brewery. Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. Why doesn’t Alaska report on adverse reactions to COVID vaccine? From the animals who grow it to the finished garments, we have Alaska Watchman relies on the generous support of our readers. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. The Alaska State Fair is the annual state fair which is held in Palmer in Alaska. [{"slug":"palmer-wasilla","title":"Palmer \/ Wasilla Area"}], Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. Alaska first declared a... Groups advocating for interstellar space travel, extreme badminton, banning guns and advancing LGBTQ activism are among the hundreds of organizations to benefit from federal... On the 48th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision that legalized abortion across the nation, Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski announced, Jan. 22, that... Now that Democrats control the presidency and both houses of Congress, Alaska’s Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski finds herself in the spotlight. Dave Iles passes parts of his long gourd vine to volunteers at the Harvest Fest … The Palmer area has many farmers, and one great farm puts on a strawberry festival every year. Come celebrate gardening, art and music in beautiful downtown Palmer, Alaska, during the one day festival the Palmer Midsummer Garden and Art Faire, PMGAF. Stops include Seward (Kenai Fjords), Girdwood, Whittier & Spencer Glacier, Stops include Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali National Park & Fairbanks, For more than 75 years, the Alaska State Fair has an end-of-summer extravaganza with rides, food, and more, held…, For over 75 years, the Alaska State Fair has been a gathering place for all Alaskans, and a “last hurrah” before summer gives way to the long Alaska winter.What started as a celebration for the Mat-Su colonists in 1936 has grown into the state’s largest annual event. Excitement filled the air as Iles walked with Gidget Sanders, watching as she meticulously measured the vine. Get the kiddos involved and they can win prizes! After our debut festival at the State Fairgrounds in May of 2018, Great Alaska Music Festival will be taking a hiatus until 2021. They will have lots of vendors, food and fun things to purchase. Rent a car and travel independently on a set itinerary, with lodging and tours booked in advance. The Aug. 28-30 event will include dozens of live music performances, gourmet food trucks and scores of local vendors and a BBQ cookoff competition. © Copyright - Alaska Watchman, LLC • All Rights Reserved. Colony Christmas came about as an extension of Colony Days, an 82-year-old festival that locals have cherished for generations. Each June, the town celebrates its historical roots with a weekend-long festival for guests of all ages. Dunleavy wants to extend COVID disaster declaration to September, Fans of interstellar travel, badminton, roller derby and LGBT activists enjoy Anchorage CARES Act funds, Murkowski will introduce resolution that could effectively enshrine abortion into US Constitution. “You will still see your old favorites, the Parade of Lights and the fireworks extravaganza, along with some wonderful new outdoor events,” said Palmer Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ailis Vann. - See 520 traveler reviews, 553 candid photos, and great deals for Palmer, AK, at Tripadvisor. We have reviews of the best Started in 2002, this…. Framed by mountains Palmer is found in Matanuska Valley, about 42 miles north east of Anchorage.