Alaska State Fair

 

The Alaska State Fair takes place the latter half of August and into September. Although this is Alaska’s largest event, it's hosted in Palmer, an agriculturally rooted community with a small town feel. It's the perfect location for a world renown showcase of giant vegetables, concerts, contests, rides and food.

Each day is packed with events of all kinds. The last Friday of the Alaska State Fair is one not to miss, as the giant cabbage weigh off is held that evening. These world-famous cabbages can reach up to 135 pounds! The event has a “gladiator” type of setting, as contestants enter their giant cabbages in a ring, with hundreds of bystanders on the bleachers overlooking the scene. It’s a quintessential Alaska event! Amusement park rides, Alaska Native crafts, foods of all kinds and exhibits, including the popular livestock pavilion, will keep you entertained.

Don't miss the state's largest event, with 100,000 attendees every year. The Alaska State Fairgrounds are located at Mile 40 Glenn Highway. For details about this year's Alaska State Fair, click here.

 

Hours of operation

The 2024 Fair, will be held Friday, August 16, through Monday, September 2, at the fairgrounds in Palmer. Hours will be 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. During the 14-day run, the Fair will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (August 20 – 21 and August 27 – 28).

 

Getting there

The Alaska State Fairgrounds are just south of Palmer along the Glenn Highway. It's approximately a 45-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, but be prepared for traffic congestion, particularly on weekend dates. If coming from Anchorage, riding the Alaska Railroad is an option on weekends. Parking at the fairgrounds is free in 2024. There are extended options including RV parking available as well. Please note: road construction along the Glenn Highway may lead to delays, so plan accordingly.

 

Ways To Save

There are a number of ways to save on admission. Season passes include daily parking permits and you can save 65 percent off regular admission. There are also six- and four-pack options that include discounts. You can even save up to 23 percent on general one-day admission tickets if purchased online. You can purchase online tickets HERE, including discounted tickets including carnival ride packages and more.

 

Daily Fun

The Alaska State Fair is packed with fun events throughout the 14 days. The fair is open from 11 a.m. 10 p.m. There are daily concerts scattered throughout the fairgrounds, performances by local dance groups, talent shows, Alaska Native dancers and similar events. All of these are free with fair admission. 

 

Exhibits

One thing that makes the fair so fun is the exhibits. Photography, quilting, painting, pottery, woodworking - the talent on display by Alaskans is amazing! Stop by the Hoskins and Irwin Buildings to see these displays. Also, don't forget about the Farm Exhibits pavilion - you'll get to see all the livestock raised by local 4-Hers, as well as the giant fruits and vegetables raised under the Midnight Sun.

Top

    • 610 S. Bailey Street, Suite 201
    • Palmer, AK 99645

enewsletter signup

Get info about the valley’s hidden treasures!

Visitors Guide

Get Your Free Visitor’s Guide Today!

German
Japanese

Creating a vibrant visitor industry through authentic experiences that positively impact the communities where we live.

© 2024 Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau