Live music, baseball and an open air market are just a few of the highlights of a busy Summer Solstice weekend.
Summer solstice is a tad bittersweet in Alaska, because we know we aren't gaining daylight any more. But, it' s a time for celebration as the longest day of the year is here, complete with long hours of sunshine and fun. Here are six events you don't want to miss this weekend:
Music in the Park
In Wasilla, Music in the Park takes over Wonderland Park on June 21, with live music, food trucks, local vendors and prizes. This concert series takes place every Friday throughout June and is very family-friendly activity. Wonderland Park is also a great venue for the kids to play as well, so head out and enjoy the party.
Palmer Alehouse
In Palmer, Palmer Alehouse is hosting a big solstice event as part of its summer concert series. On Friday, June 21, the outdoor venue will host Hawaii's JD Cox and The Harmonica Guy from 5-7:30 p.m., and then from 7-10 p.m. Todd Grebe and Cold Country takes the stage. The concerts are free, and the restaurant has its regular menu and a beer tent available. Come back on Saturday, June 22 as Palmer's own Matt Hopper and the Roman Candles play from 7-10 p.m.
Midnight Sun Open Market
Mat-Su Resort and Everett's are hosting an all-day event at the resort on June 21. Starting at noon and running through midnight, the Midnight Sun Open Market and Festival has several offerings. There is a beer garden, barbecue and local artist vendors throughout the day, and then at 7 p.m., live music including Queen Soloman, JD Cox and The Harmonica Guy (after they finish at the Alehouse!) and The Ken Peltier Band. If you've never seen The Ken Peltier Band, you are missing one of Alaska's top musicians. Head down to Everett's to catch him this weekend.
Mat-Su Miners Baseball
Mat-Su Miners Baseball. The Mat-Su Miners are in the thick of their summer season, and they play the Peninsula Oilers on Friday night at 7 p.m. at Hermon Brothers Field on the Alaska State Fairgrounds. The Miners are a college-age team that plays teams from around Alaska. Come on out and root on the hometown team.
Live at 5
Live at 5. If you find yourself in Talkeetna, take advantage of the Live at 5 Concert Series, sponsored by the Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce and the Denali Arts Council. Free music in the village park every Friday night 5 p.m. On Solstice, Blue Flags and Black Grass take the stage. This Oregon band feature banjo, resophonic guitar, fiddle and washboards. Their style has been described as ragtime, country blues and bluegrass.
Miles for Meals 5K Fun Run
Miles for Meals 5K Fun Run. On Saturday, the Wasilla Area Seniors host their largest fund-raiser of the year, the Miles for Meals 5K Fun Run. Check in is at 10 a.m. and the race begins at 11 a.m. from the center, located on Knik-Goose Bay Road. Online registration is available at Eventbrite.com, but closes on Friday.