Alaska State Fair 2023

 

The 2023 Alaska State Fair takes place August 18 through September 4, 2023. Alaska’s largest event takes place in Palmer every August and early September, as the Alaska State Fair is a showcase of giant vegetables, concerts, contests, rides and food. The fair spans 14 days, across three weekends. The fair will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

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.

The Alaska State Fair is the state's largest event, with 100,000 attendees every year. The Alaska State Fairgrounds are located at Mile 40 Glenn Highway.

 

Hours of operation

The 2023 Fair, will be held Friday, August 18, through Monday, September 4, 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 22 – 23 and August 29 – 30).

 

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 2023. 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.

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