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.

Family-friendly options include reindeer visits, food truck parks, hot chocolate socials, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Courtesy of Visit Anchorage

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.…