Juneau’s Maritime heritage, rich culture, and commerce are celebrated through fun and unique experiences that bring together loved ones and nations worldwide. The annual Juneau Maritime Festival is usually held the first week of May to mark the beginning of summer.

If you love seafood, this festival is for you. During your time at the festival, you’ll find numerous seafood stalls offering the most unique and freshly prepared meals from local establishments. The Juneau Maritime Festival will open your mind to the importance of clean water and the vitality of wild seafood in the life of every southeastern person.

The Juneau Maritime Festival usually starts with the blessing of the fleet around 9 to 10 am, and the festival goes from 11 am to 5 pm -ish-. There’s no fee to enter the festival, but voluntary donations are requested. After the blessing of the fleet, a one-person canoe opens the ceremony, followed by dancers. After this, the festival features various fun activities by the people attending and volunteers. Tours, music, and contests are an essential part of this festival to engage with its visitors and get their adrenaline pumping.

Around 12:00 pm, the US coast guard performs a ‘search and rescue procedure; this performance is carried out by using MH-60 Jayhawks or MH-65D Dolphin helicopters and qualified aircrew. This flight is served by two pilots, one trained rescue swimmer, and one flight engineer.

After this performance, a commercial fishing competition takes place. Other available activities include boat rides and harbor cruises, Southeast Alaska Sailing regatta tug or war -and other games-display by the seafood vendors, live music, a beer garden, kid activities, and many more exciting activities. This festival also features contests like tote races, regatta races, and the annual fish filleting competition that has become one of the most attractive and sought-after events by locals and tourists.

The Juneau Maritime Festival is carried out at the waterfront, and it’s a unique way to encourage Juneau’s population to learn about fishing and boating while protecting the environment and ensuring clean water.