The Great Alaska Taco Eating Contest 2014
The time has come for Anchorage to crown the fastest taco eater of the 49th state. So join the staff of Don Jose's at 5 p.m. Sunday to register for the competition, which begins at 6 p.m. Ten brave consumers will compete to see who can eat the most tacos in 10 minutes. The event will be hosted by Rick Ruiz and Matt Collins with music from DJ Wize. 2052 E. Northern Lights Blvd. Free. (764-2690)
Great Alaska Aviation Gathering
The Alaska Airmen's Association will present nearly 300 aviation exhibitors, as well as indoor and outdoor displays that showcase aviation technology, products and innovations. There will be speakers addressing topics including aviation advocacy, search-and-rescue and safety. A special kids' section will entertain the youngest family members. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, FedEx Maintenance Hangar, 5800 Lockheed Ave. Free. (800-464-7030, greatalaskaaviationgathering.org)
UAA Spring Pottery Sale
Pick up some great pottery while supporting student artists. This semester, students and faculty will also be raising money for a ceramic arts scholarship fund that will support future students. Arrive early — the good stuff usually goes fast. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, UAA Gordon Hartlieb Hall, 3211 Providence Drive. (786-6920)
Alaska Dirt Divas Wednesday Ride
The Alaska Dirt Divas will host their Annual Spring Formal ride, a dress-up parade on the Coastal Trail followed by a get-together at the Snow Goose (no host). What to wear? Be sure it's bike-compatible and you should still wear your helmet. After that, anything goes — feather boas, taffeta, pearls, you name it. The Divas are a mountain biking group for women dedicated to teaching mountain biking skills, sustaining local trails and fostering a love of the outdoors. 6 p.m. Wednesday, Elderberry Park, 1297 W. Fifth Ave.
Early-Morning Bird Walks
Develop and fine-tune your birding skills and witness the progression of songbird migration through the Campbell Tract this spring. Join BLM staff and Anchorage Audubon Society members for a series of early-morning outdoor bird walks in May. Meet in the Science Center parking lot at 6:30 a.m. Dress appropriately for the weather and for walking on uneven terrain. Hot cocoa and coffee will be available at the Science Center afterwards. Participants are free to leave early. 6:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Thursday, BLM Campbell Creek Science Center, 5600 Science Center Drive. Free. (267-1241, blm.gov/ak/sciencecenter)