With less than two weeks until the solstice, Anchorage has fully leaned into the sparkle of the season. Snow muffles the city streets, twinkle lights shimmer off freshly fallen powder and I’ve already eaten my weight in peppermint bark. But there’s no time to hibernate – this weekend is packed with concerts, festivals and winter traditions that will warm your heart (and toes). Grab a thermos of hot cocoa, dig out your wooliest sweater and let’s dive into five Christmassy adventures.

Alaska Dance Theatre’s annual winter show blends classic holiday charm with a brand‑new ballet. The first act features dancers of all ages performing festive pieces – including an appearance by the ADT Alaskan Rockettes – while the second act debuts The Skater’s Pond, a one‑act ballet set on a frozen lake. It’s family‑friendly and runs about 2¾ hours, making it a perfect way to kick off the weekend. Tickets start at $38.

If you prefer your holiday cheer with soaring harmonies, head to St. Patrick’s Parish or St. Andrew Catholic Church for the Alaska Chamber Singers’ annual concert. Expect favourite carols mixed with new works and a special appearance by virtuoso guitarist Dr. Armin Abdihodzic. Performances run Friday and Saturday evenings and a Sunday matinee, and tickets start at $40.

Celebrate the darkest days of the year with Anchorage’s own alternative music festival. Dark Daze spans Thursday through Sunday and features more than two dozen bands, including Animal Eyes, SunDog and Brother Buffalo. Shows take place at Club Nyt Lyt and the Anchorage Museum, and there’s even a “dark arts” market to browse. Individual show tickets or full weekend passes are available. All ages welcome, though expect late‑night vibes.

One of Anchorage’s most beloved winter traditions, the Solstice Tree Tour turns the ski‑only Mize Loop at Kincaid Park into a sparkling forest. Starting at 4 p.m. Saturday, skiers and snowshoers glide past decorated trees while enjoying food, music and warming barrels. Even if you’re a non‑skier, you can walk the loop and take in the lights – just leave the dog at home. Free shuttles run from Dimond High, Kincaid Elementary and Kulis Drive until 7:15 p.m.

Anchorage’s Jewish community invites everyone to celebrate Hanukkah with an evening of acrobatics, food and fun. Cirque Du Hanukkah at the Egan Center features a Guinness World Record–holding Xpogo stunt team performing aerial pogo tricks. There’s also a falafel and shawarma bar, latkes, doughnuts and a giant inflatable obstacle course for kids. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids and can be purchased in advance or at the door.

While the nights grow long, Anchorage knows how to brighten things up. From graceful skaters and soaring harmonies to rock shows and solstice magic, this weekend is bursting with light and sound. Don’t be afraid to embrace the weird – the Dark Daze festival promises a unique lineup, and Cirque Du Hanukkah invites you to celebrate outside your usual traditions. Wherever you end up, remember to layer up, tip your performers and enjoy this fleeting, festive season. I’ll be out there with bells on.