Local events in Juneau, Alaska for 2017
Before finalizing your itinerary, look for Juneau’s local events and festivals taking place this year! And be sure to check out:How to spend your time in Juneau, Alaska.
NB: If you’re an independent traveler, it’s worth noting that the tour operators in Juneau run from May 1 to September 25, 2017. As well, taxi drivers can organize year-round tours for you upon request.
17th Annual Wearable Art Extravaganza:
Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12. Fashionista style, the Wearable Art Extravaganza celebrates the creativity of the people of Juneau as they don wearable works of art. This year’s theme is “Juxtaposition.” The Wearable Art Extravaganza showcases art in any media designed to be worn on the human body.
Seward’s Day:
Monday, March 27. Patriotically, Seward’s Day commemorates the signing of the treaty by which the United States bought Alaska from Russia. This occurred on March 30, 1867.
Alaska Folk Festival:
Monday, April 3 through Sunday, April 9. In its 43nd year, this free event is Alaska’s biggest celebration of folk music performed by Alaskan musicians. Additionally, those from the rest of the country and Canada! Expect to see lively performances, interesting workshops and dances.
21st Annual Spring King Salmon Derby:
Monday, May 1 to Wednesday, May 31. Especially relevant, the Annual Spring King Salmon Derby is a month-long celebration of salmon fishing. It is held to benefit the Tlingit and Haida Alumni Scholarship Program. Furthermore, cash prizes are awarded!
31st Annual Juneau Jazz and Classics:
Friday, May 5 to Saturday, May 20. May is springtime in Alaska, and what better way to celebrate than with music. Over the 16-day schedule, expect to see noted blues, jazz and classical musicians. Artists come from around the country to perform in a variety of venues in the town. As well, on the water.
Gold Rush Days:
Saturday, June 17 to Sunday, June 18. In celebration of Juneau’s heritage and founding, the Gold Rush Days festival features all sorts of wonderful things on Sandy Beach, Douglas Island. Namely: logging events and mining competitions. Additionally, there’s delicious food and other activities that are great for the whole family.
Independence Day:
Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4. Most noteworthy, locals have fun in Juneau on the nation’s independence day. With over 18 hours of sunlight, the festivities begin at midnight of the 3rd. Starting with a bang: a fireworks display taking place over the Gastineau Channel. In the day, expect parades, field events, a dog frisbee competition, a fireman’s race and other fun events.
69th Golden North Salmon Derby:
Friday, August 11 to Sunday, August 13. Fantastically, this event is the oldest salmon derby in Alaska. Sponsored by the Territorial Sportsmen, the winners are awarded large cash and merchandise prizes. Proceeds benefit derby fund scholarships.
Alaska Day:
Wednesday, October 18. Most historically, Alaska Day celebrates the anniversary of the formal transfer of the Territory. Also, the raising of the U.S. flag at Sitka in 1867.
Juneau Public Market:
Friday, November 24 to Sunday, November 26. What better way to begin the shopping season than visiting Juneau’s holiday bazaar. Expect to find arts and crafts, photographs and wearable art. Plus lots of other interesting, unique and must-have items.
32nd Annual Gallery Walk:
Friday, December 1 to Sunday, December 3. Particularly cultural, why not enjoy a visit to many of Juneau’s art galleries. Beginning on the evening of Friday December 1. Meet the local artists and talk about their works, it’s fascinating.