Alaska is a land of breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, rich Native heritage, and endless adventure. It’s also home to communities known for strong academics and some of the best elementary schools in Alaska, making it a wonderful place for families. For those exploring exciting things to do across the state — especially parents researching neighborhoods with the best public elementary schools in Alaska — there’s no shortage of winter events and family-friendly activities to enjoy.
From magical northern lights tours to holiday markets, ice festivals, and hands-on museums, Alaska offers meaningful experiences for families planning weekend outings or seasonal trips. Below is your curated guide to November & December events, followed by year-round favorites.
Interesting Facts about Alaska
Northern Lights Capital
Fairbanks is one of the world’s best places to see the Aurora Borealis, with visibility up to 240 nights a year.
Largest U.S. State
Alaska is bigger than Texas, California, and Montana combined, but has one of the smallest populations.
Dog Mushing Legacy
Dog mushing is Alaska’s official state sport, and the famous Iditarod Trail stretches over 1,000 miles.
🎉 November & December 2025 Events in Alaska
1. Anchorage Holiday Tree Lighting – Anchorage
A festive celebration filled with holiday music, warm treats, and family fun as Anchorage welcomes the winter season. Kids love the lights, performers, and cheerful community atmosphere.
Dates: November 23, 2025
Location: Town Square Park, Anchorage
Link: https://www.anchorage.net/events
Did you know?
Anchorage gets up to 22 hours of daylight in summer — but only about 5 hours in December!
2. North Pole Christmas in Ice – North Pole, Alaska
A magical ice-themed festival featuring ice slides, sculptures, carving competitions, and twinkling lights. It’s a winter wonderland perfect for families and a favorite among kids.
Dates: Late November – December 2025
Location: North Pole, Alaska
Link: https://www.christmasinice.org
3. Alyeska Resort Holiday Roundhouse – Girdwood
Enjoy holiday markets, scenic tram rides, winter sports, and festive activities at Alaska’s premier mountain resort. Great for families who love snow adventures.
Dates: Select dates in December 2025
Location: Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
Link: https://www.alyeskaresort.com
4. Colony Christmas Celebration – Palmer
One of Alaska’s coziest winter festivals featuring craft shows, outdoor games, a parade of lights, Santa visits, fireworks, and local food vendors.
Dates: December 13–14, 2025
Location: Downtown Palmer
Link: https://www.palmerchamber.org/colony-christmas
5. Fairbanks Winter Solstice Festival – Fairbanks
Celebrate the shortest day of the year with fire pits, light displays, music, shopping, and family activities in downtown Fairbanks.
Dates: December 21, 2025
Location: Fairbanks
Link: https://www.explorefairbanks.com/events
6. Anchorage Museum – Winter Holiday Events
Interactive exhibits, winter-themed workshops, holiday crafts, and science activities make this a top destination for kids.
Dates: All December 2025
Location: Anchorage Museum
Link: https://www.anchoragemuseum.org
7. Juneau Holiday Market – Juneau
Shop from local artists, explore handmade gifts, enjoy live holiday music, and experience the warmth of Alaska’s creative community.
Dates: December 5–7, 2025
Location: Juneau Arts & Culture Center
Link: https://www.jahc.org
8. Moonpreneur In-person Workshop For Kids
A fun and educational online program offering courses in Robotics, Coding, AI, IoT, and Game Development. Perfect for children interested in STEM — and a great complement to academics for families exploring the best elementary schools in Alaska.
Date: Year-round sessions + December special workshops
Link: Moonpreneur In-person Workshop For Kids
🌿 Year-Round Activities in Alaska
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Location: Portage
Link: https://www.alaskawildlife.org
See bears, moose, bison, eagles, and rescued wildlife — an unforgettable experience for kids.
Alaska SeaLife Center
Location: Seward
Link: https://www.alaskasealife.org
Explore marine exhibits, touch tanks, and wildlife rehabilitation programs along Resurrection Bay.
Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
Location: Fairbanks
Link: https://www.explorefairbanks.com
A beautiful introduction to Alaska Native heritage, wildlife, and northern culture.
Denali National Park
Location: Interior Alaska
Link: https://www.nps.gov/dena
Home to North America’s tallest peak — offering kid-friendly hikes, wildlife viewing, and ranger programs.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Location: Fairbanks
Link: https://museum.uaf.edu
Dinosaur fossils, aurora exhibits, Native art, and hands-on science make it a family favorite.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
Location: Juneau
Link: https://www.fs.usda.gov/mendenhall
A stunning glacier with hiking trails, interpretive programs, and wildlife viewing.
Conclusion
Alaska offers unforgettable winter events, cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, and hands-on learning opportunities — perfect for families exploring fun activities and communities with some of the best elementary schools in Alaska. From sparkling holiday displays and solstice celebrations to wildlife encounters and museums, there’s always something exciting to discover throughout the state.
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.
🌎 Explore More Local Guides
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