The 2025 Alaska State Fair opens this Friday in Palmer, running until September 1. As in previous years, the fair will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week.
Alongside traditional favorites like food vendors, rides, and exhibits, the fair will feature several new attractions. For the third consecutive year, parking at the fairgrounds is free. The popular Alaska State Fair train service will also return for its second year. Throughout the event, various sponsored “Special Days” will offer discounts to specific groups, such as military members, and package deals are also available.
Here are some highlights from the opening weekend:
Friday
- Cirque Ma’Ceo: This equestrian-themed circus combines acrobatics, aerial arts, and dance. The show is free and runs daily, with premium front-row seats available for $10. (1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. at Yellow Trail Lawn)
- Brad’s World Reptiles & Glow Zone: An exhibit featuring live reptiles, amphibians, and other exotic species from around the world. The Glow Zone showcases bioluminescent fish. (1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m. daily at Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union Kid Zone)
- DaVinci: The Exhibition: Open daily, this exhibition explores the genius of Leonardo da Vinci through his inventions, machines, and art. (11 a.m. at Don Sheldon Events Center)
- Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Show: World-champion lumberjacks compete in a show that blends comedy with classic logging sports. (1 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m. daily at SBS Woodlot)
Saturday
- Duct Tape Contest: Contestants have 15 minutes to create a masterpiece on-site or can enter a premade creation from home. Prizes are awarded in both categories. (2 p.m. at SBS Woodlot)
- Native Youth Olympics: Competitors demonstrate strength, endurance, and skill in traditional games. The event also takes place on Friday and Sunday. (4:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place)
Sunday
- Great Alaskan Coffee Roaster Competition: Attendees can sample locally roasted coffee and vote for their favorite between noon and 4 p.m. The event includes local music and a kids’ coloring corner. (11 a.m. at Event Hall)
- Anguyak Dancers: The Wasilla-based Yup’ik dance troupe will deliver multiple performances with an inspirational message. (12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place; 4:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. at Alyeska Pipeline Colony Stage)
- Puppy Pals: This live animal show features dogs performing a variety of stunts and tricks. Performances continue throughout the fair. (1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. at Alaska News Source Corral)
Monday
- Magic by Robbie: A family-friendly magic show scheduled at multiple times throughout the fair. (12:30 p.m. at Alyeska Pipeline Colony Stage)
- Horse Costume Contest: Horses and their handlers display creative and colorful costumes in this unique equestrian competition. (5 p.m. at France Equestrian Center)
Borealis Theatre Main Stage Concerts
- Friday: Alaskan musician Medium Build performs following the worldwide tour for his 2024 album, “Country.” (7 p.m., tickets $29-$35)
- Saturday: Rainbow Kitten Surprise, known for appearances at major festivals like Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, will take the stage. This concert is sold out.
- Sunday: Music legend “Weird Al” Yankovic brings his renowned parody and original songs to the fair. Both shows are sold out, though the fair advises checking the official ticket site for potential last-minute releases.
- Monday: Chart-topping Christian artist Chris Tomlin, who has 21 No. 1 singles, will perform. Reserved seating is sold out, but lawn tickets are available for $49. (7 p.m.)
