After months of short days and long nights, Fur Rondy returns to Anchorage to bring a welcome distraction and some good old fashioned fun. My kids and I have already set our sights on Friday and the blanket toss at the Rondy Carnival. We’ll probably have powdered sugar on our faces from funnel cakes by the time the carnival lights flicker on Friday evening. Even if it’s too cold and you have to watch them from your car, its always fun to go check out the fireworks on Saturday! Here’s a curated list of five happenings—some Rondy, some not—that will make your weekend sparkle.
Frostbite Footrace & Fun Runs
Where: Downtown Anchorage (start at 4th Avenue and D Street)
When: Saturday Feb 28, 9:30 AM (5K race, 2.5K Fun Run & Dog Jog)
What & why: Lace up for an Anchorage tradition! Runners, walkers and pups don costumes and dash through downtown in this lively start to Rondy Saturday. Choose a timed 5K, a family‑friendly 2.5K fun run or the new Dog Jog; the festive atmosphere and cheering crowd make this race a winter favorite.
More info: Fur Rondy Fun Run
World’s Largest Outhouse Races
Where: 4th Avenue between E and F Street
When: Saturday Feb 28, 4 – 5:30 PM
What & why: Teams build hilarious, themed outhouses on skis and push them down 4th Avenue in a battle for glory and prizes. It’s free to watch and one of the quirkiest, most beloved Rondy events—expect loud cheering, creative costumes and high‑speed bathroom humor.
More info: Fur Rondy Outhouse Races
Dinner, Fireworks & Winter Magic Above the City
Where: 500 W 3rd Avenue, Hilton Anchorage
When: Saturday Feb 28, 5 – 9 PM (doors at 4:30 PM)
What & why: For a cozy evening, head to the Hilton’s top floor for dinner and a front‑row seat to Rondy fireworks. This all‑ages event offers a meal, warm ambiance and panoramic views of downtown fireworks—a perfect date night or family outing.
More info: Eventbrite – Dinner & Fireworks
Banff Mountain Film Festival
Where: Wendy Williamson Auditorium, UAA Campus (2533 Providence Dr.)
When: Friday Feb 27, doors at 6:30 PM, films at 7 PM
What & why: The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings adventure films celebrating mountains and wilderness. Expect adrenaline‑pumping ski films, breathtaking climbing stories and inspiring environmental narratives. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the show starts at 7—a perfect escape after a day at the carnival.
More info: UAA TIX
City Design Bus Tour (Anchorage Design Week)
Where: Departs from Anchorage Museum, 625 C Street
When: Sunday March 1, 1 PM (approx. 3 hours)
What & why: Hop on a warm bus with architects, planners and artists to explore how design shapes life in the North. The tour stops at significant Anchorage landmarks, discussing urban design, architecture and climate adaptation; snacks are included. Tickets are limited and cost ~$30.
More info: Anchorage Design Week – Bus Tour
Honorable Mention: Rondy Kickoff – “Wasting Away in Rondyrittaville”
Where: Egan Center (555 W 5th Ave)
When: Friday Feb 27, 6 – 11:30 PM
What & why: Start your weekend at Rondy’s tropical‑themed kickoff party. The Buffett Beach Band provides live Jimmy Buffett tunes, there are tropical drinks, decor and a sandy dance floor. This 21+ event promises a beach party in the heart of winter.
More info: Fur Rondy – Rondyrittaville
Thanks for checking out my list
As the fireworks fade and the last outhouse crosses the finish line, remember to stroll through the carnival and catch the blanket toss (5:30 – 7 PM) for a literal lift. My crew will be bouncing between rides, races and films, trying to cram as much Rondy magic into the weekend as possible. Whether you’re running, racing, watching films or simply eating fried dough under neon lights, stay warm and enjoy these winter moments. See you on the Ferris wheel—save me a seat near the fireworks that will be going of in Ship Creek at 7:30pm on Saturday!!!