On summer solstice, June 21, Anchorage gets an incredible 22 hours of daylight—and the city makes the most of all that sunshine. Massive celebrations take place around the town, and there’s truly something for everyone. The major downtown celebration takes place on June 23 with the annual Solstice Festival and Hero Games, where Town Square is taken over by performers, artists, and musicians hosting a party for all.

Head to the Children’s Rainbow Factory for puppet shows, a huge sandbox, and a kayak pool. Local police, firefighters, and military units host the Hero Games to see who’s the best of the best. From the stretcher carry race to the ladder rescue, the games pay homage to first responder skills and it’s a show you don’t want to miss.

Summer Loving

The Anchorage Mayor’s Marathon and Half Marathon also takes place during the solstice with run options for all levels and abilities. If you partake, you’ll probably see a moose or two along the way. Prefer to stick to slower treks? Take on Flattop Mountain, which has numerous trails to fit any hiker’s ability. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city, and during solstice there are informal parties hosted at the summit.

Concerts are another popular event during the longest days of the year, including events at Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria, Humpy’s, and Chilkoot Charlie’s. The Anchorage Downtown Partnership hosts a summer-long series at Petrovitch Park that’s free and family friendly.