Summer has hit full stride with plenty of festivals and gatherings going on across the state. Colony Days comes to Palmer and in Anchorage, the 31st Alaska Run for Women will draw a huge crowd. Plus there are movies, derbies and festivals going locally. Here’s a look at some of what’s going on in the area this weekend.
Alanpalooza 2023: 5 p.m. Friday, The Nave, 3502 Spenard Road
This free all-ages event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Alaska. The event features some of Anchorage’s finest musicians, such as Hollis Bryan, Ed Washington II and Rosie Rush. Donations are encouraged.
ADP’s Movie in the Park: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Town Square Park, 544 W. Fifth Ave.
This free, family-friendly event features “The Goonies,” the 1985 classic where a young group of friends find a treasure map that sends them on a wild adventure. Bring your blankets and camp chairs for the film at Town Square Park.
Slam’n Salm’n Derby: Friday, June 9-Saturday, June 17, The Bait Shack, 212 W. Whitney Road
Anchorage’s largest salmon derby kicks off Friday, with men, women, military and youth classes. Tickets must be purchased to enter, and proceeds go to Alaska nonprofits. The top prize includes $1,000 and a gold nugget.
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Alaska Run for Women: 8 a.m. Saturday, University of Alaska Anchorage Cuddy Quad, 3211 Providence Drive
Now in its 31st year, the Alaska Run for Women raises money for and awareness of breast cancer and women’s health. It also showcases some of the state’s best athletes, with participants numbering in the thousands. One- and five-mile run/walks are available to enter along with the popular party wave. Due to a large expected crowd, preregistration is strongly recommended at akrfw.org.
3 Barons Renaissance Fair: noon-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 3400 E. Tudor Road
The renaissance fair returns for a final weekend with this weekend’s fantasy-themed events. Enjoy all the fun of the merchants and a live-action chess game, plus combat games. A free shuttle is available from the Wendy Williamson parking lot and general admission is $10. Admission for kids 12 and under is $5.
[Your guide to Alaska’s summer fairs and festivals in 2023]
Vaniversary: 3 p.m. Saturday, Van’s Dive Bar, 1027 E. Fifth Ave.
It’s tough to jam in more local music in one day than Van’s Dive Bar will on Saturday for its fifth Vaniversary. With 28 bands participating in 15- to 30-minute increments, there will be something for everyone’s ear. The bands start at 3 p.m. and run deep into the night.
Colony Days: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Palmer
Celebrate summer Palmer-style with Colony Days, a three-day extravaganza that includes dozens of activities and events, including markets, tournaments, demonstrations and the ever-popular parade on Saturday. Check palmerchamber.org for detailed information.
Pre-Juneteenth Family Day Celebration: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 W. 27th Ave.
The Alaska Black Caucus Education Committee is hosting this event featuring door prizes and a free showing of the film “King Richard,” based on the story of Richard Williams and his two daughters, tennis sensations Serena and Venus Williams. Free tickets must be picked up in advance at the Bear Tooth.
Check our online calendar for more event listings at adn.com/calendar.