Page 10 - Travel Guide Fly Alaska Winter Edition

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Where Winter Comes to plAy

Back in the 1930s, fur trappers, miners, and traders would all converge on Anchorage for an annual
winter rendezvous. They came to sell their goods, trade tall tales, catch up with family and friends,
and generally shake off the snow and solitude. Sure, it was good for the pocketbook—but it was even
better for the spirit. This lively gathering helped Alaskans survive those long, dark winter months, as
laughter and human connection are the best remedies for the doldrums. By 1945, the festival had
added sports competitions, parades, dances, and dog sled races.
Today, thousands of people converge in Anchorage in February for the largest party south of
the Arctic. The city rolls out 50+ events, including athletic competitions, ice carving, art, food, the
legendary running of the reindeer, and—of course—dog sled racing, Alaska’s original mode of
transportation. Expect wild costumes, oversized fur hats, and a whole lot of frontier swagger. Around
here, being cold isn’t a problem… it’s just a state of mind.

Photo by Fur Rondy
8 ® WINTER EDITION