Psst… I was up late last night tapping away at my keyboard while thick fog curled around Anchorage like an eager polar bear hug. Between work, errands and the pea‑soup murkiness outside, the week disappeared faster than free donuts at the office. But we’re Alaskans—fog, ice and busy schedules won’t stop us from getting out there and having fun. Grab your warm coat and headlamp because I’ve rounded up five events to brighten the weekend.
Below are five events that cut through the fog and make the weekend shine. Young or young‑at‑heart, kid‑toting or kid‑free, these picks are all about community, creativity and keeping Anchorage fun.
Ilapet: Our Relatives Benefit Event
Where: Alaska Native Heritage Center, 8800 Heritage Center Drive
When: Friday, Jan 23, 6 – 11 p.m.
What & Why: This community‑organized benefit supports relatives impacted by Typhoon Halong. Expect Native dance performances, storytelling with the Chickaloonies, live rock bands, a Native art market, potluck feast and raffle. Admission is $20 for adults and just $5 for youth under 16, and evacuees attend free. Bring a dish to share and soak up the warmth of culture, music and solidarity in a unique Anchorage venue.
More Info: Anchorage Chamber – Ilapet
Anchorage Folk Festival Kickoff & Fundraiser
Where: Wendy Williamson Auditorium (UAA) & Odd Man Rush Brewing
When: Friday, Jan 23, 7 p.m. (local acts) and 9 p.m. (Henhouse Prowlers); Saturday, Jan 24, 7 – 10:30 p.m. fundraiser
What & Why: The 37th annual Anchorage Folk Festival launches Thursday and runs through Feb 1 with over 100 performances and nearly 50 workshops—all for free. Friday’s free concert at the Wendy Williamson Auditorium spotlights local musicians at 7 p.m., followed by bluegrass ambassadors the Henhouse Prowlers at 9 p.m.. On Saturday night, head to Odd Man Rush Brewing for a ticketed fundraiser featuring opener Wiley Post at 7:30 p.m. and the Henhouse Prowlers at 8:30 p.m.; tickets run about $34 and the event is 21+. Whether you’re a toe‑tapper or a head‑banger, this festival bridges cultures through music and brings the community together.
More Info: Festival info | Fundraiser tickets
International Guitar Night XXVI
Where: Discovery Theatre, 621 West 6th Ave
When: Friday & Saturday, Jan 23–24, 7:30 p.m.
What & Why: Acoustic guitar virtuosity takes center stage when International Guitar Night returns for its 26th year. This mobile festival features a dynamic lineup: Thu Le’s classical mastery, Lucas Imbiriba’s flamenco‑rock fusion, ukulele star Taimane and fingerstyle phenom Alexandr Misko. Expect solos, duets and quartets that showcase the boundless possibilities of stringed instruments. A perfect date night or music appreciation master class, it’s the kind of concert where jaws drop and fingers fly.
More Info: Anchorage Concert Association
Celebration – Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
Where: Atwood Concert Hall, 621 West 6th Avenue
When: Saturday, Jan 24, 7:30 p.m.
What & Why: Celebrate with the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra and pianist Ying Li in a program of shimmering orchestral works. The concert pairs Debussy’s Fêtes from Nocturnes with Amy Beach’s sweeping Piano Concerto and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2, promising a thrilling journey of brilliant piano, soaring melodies and heartfelt beauty. Arrive early for a free pre‑concert lecture at 6:30 p.m., then let yourself be transported by music that moves from magical light to American‑spirited romance and Finnish strength.
More Info: Anchorage Symphony – Celebration
løwtemp EDM Festival
Where: Club Nyt Lyt, Anchorage
When: Saturday, Jan 24, 9 p.m. – Sunday, Jan 25, 5 a.m. (21+ event)
What & Why: Alaska’s newest EDM festival thumps into town with a two‑room experience designed for night owls and bass lovers. Doors open at 9 p.m., and headliner Blunts & Blondes joins eight standout local artists to deliver house, dubstep and everything in between. General admission tickets range from $40 to $50, and VIP meet‑and‑greet passes are $75. Expect a full bar, warm dancing crowds, and discounted hotel rates at the nearby Wildbirch Hotel.
More Info: Eventbrite – løwtemp Festival
Final Thoughts
It’s been foggy around town, but that’s just part of the winter adventure. Lace up your boots, flip on your headlights and go make some memories. Whether you’re dancing under strobe lights, strumming along to folk tunes or savoring story and song at a benefit, I hope you find warmth, laughter and maybe a new favorite musician. See you out there—drive safe and take care of one another!