Things to Do in Anchorage This Fall:
October and early November events worth planning a trip around
October and early November are some of the most festive weeks of the year in Anchorage, with Anchorage events for every age and interest: Halloween trails and hayrides, Alaska Native art fairs, First Friday gallery nights, and a citywide restaurant week. Make the Copper Whale Inn your home base as the season kicks off, and an October or November visit means plenty of things to do in Anchorage, whether you’re looking for Anchorage events this weekend or planning a few weeks out. Our convenient location along L Street means a short walk to many downtown events in Anchorage and quick access to other activities happening around the city. We’re excited to share this time of year with guests, so be sure to ask about our own favorite events and activities!
What are the best Halloween events in Anchorage for families?
Haunted and Enchanted Trails at Goose Lake. Friday, October 16 and Saturday, October 17. Choose between a spooky Friday night trail for ages 9 and up or a family-friendly enchanted trail on Saturday afternoon. Free shuttles run from the University of Alaska Anchorage campus.
Halloween Hoot and Hayrides at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Sunday, October 18. This 200-acre facility in Portage (45 minutes south of Anchorage) is offering naturalist-guided hayrides, crafts, a scavenger hunt, and a porcupine snacking on a pumpkin!
Trick or Treat Street. Saturday, October 31. This free afternoon of trick-or-treating at businesses along 4th Avenue downtown is wildly popular, with carriage rides, a haunted trolley, and costume contests for people and pets. A perfect option for Copper Whale Inn guests!
When is Anchorage Restaurant Week?
Happening October 22-29, Anchorage Restaurant Week is a “dine around town” benefit for the Alaska Food Bank, with 50+ restaurants participating in hopes of raising $50,000 to support this statewide nonprofit organization. Find a full list of participating restaurants on the Food Bank of Alaska’s website. Also check out our list of favorite restaurants on the Copper Whale Inn website; many are part of Restaurant Week!
Where can I buy authentic Alaska Native art in Anchorage?
There are several options.
The Alaska Native Customary Art Fair. Thursday, October 22. Held during the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention, October 22 to 24, more than 170 Alaska Native artists participate, making it one of the best places to buy work directly from artisans across the state. Walkable from the Copper Whale Inn.
Third Thursdays at the Ch'k'iqadi Gallery. Thursday, October 15. Located inside the Alaska Native Heritage Center, this free evening showcases contemporary Alaska Native artists.
First Friday Anchorage. November 6, December 4. Downtown Anchorage art galleries open their doors for new exhibits and often, visits with the artists themselves. Walkable from the Copper Whale Inn.
Crafted in Alaska. Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28. One of the most popular local events to kick off the holiday season, the Anchorage Museum hosts with free admission and an incredible collection of curated wares to buy directly from artisans.
How can I tell if Alaska Native art is authentic?
A note regarding all Alaska art and craftwork for sale: Please always look for the authenticity and certification markers of Alaska-made items:
“Made in Alaska” symbol: A polar bear emblem showing that the product was manufactured or crafted in the state by an Alaska resident
“Silver Hand” symbol: A licensed logo managed by the State of Alaska indicating that the item is authentic Alaska Native-made by an Indigenous artisan
Are there beer festivals in Anchorage?
The Alaska Crafted Festival is coming up on Friday, November 6, and Saturday, November 7, at 49th State Brewing along 3rd Avenue in downtown Anchorage. Hosted by the Brewers Guild of Alaska, this fun event brings together craft beverage makers from across the state and features the coveted Alaska Beer Awards, an industry trade show, educational seminars, and local pours of favorites.
What is the weather like in Anchorage in late October?
It could be raining, snowing, or brilliantly sunny in Anchorage, so come prepared with a variety of outerwear options, just in case. Warm layers of fleece or wool are always a good idea in the fall months, as are a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes or boots that can handle both rain and snow. Heading to an evening event? Pack a headlamp, too, since it gets dark by early evening this time of year.
And don’t forget: When you’ve run out of energy from all this Anchorage fun, returning to the Copper Whale Inn’s cozy rooms makes the experience even more special. Book that stay today!
Frequently asked questions about Anchorage events this fall
What events are happening in Anchorage in October?
Anchorage events this October include the Halloween trails at Goose Lake (October 16 and 17), Restaurant Week (October 22 to 29), the Alaska Native Customary Art Fair during the AFN Convention (October 22 to 24), and Trick or Treat Street downtown on October 31. For Anchorage events this weekend, check the Visit Anchorage events calendar or just ask our innkeeper.
Are there Halloween events in Anchorage for adults?
Yes. The Haunted Trail at Goose Lake on Friday, October 16 is a spooky nighttime walk for ages 9 and up, so it’s a great pick for adults and older kids. Trick or Treat Street on October 31 also has costume contests for people and pets. If you want something less spooky, the Alaska Crafted Festival runs November 6 and 7.
What is First Friday in Anchorage?
First Friday Anchorage is a gallery night held on the first Friday of each month. Downtown art galleries open their doors to debut new exhibits, often with the artists on hand. The next dates are November 6 and December 4, and most participating galleries are within walking distance of the Copper Whale Inn.
Which fall events can I walk to from downtown Anchorage?
Quite a few. Trick or Treat Street on 4th Avenue, First Friday galleries, the Alaska Native Customary Art Fair, the Alaska Crafted Festival at 49th State Brewing, Crafted in Alaska at the Anchorage Museum, and many Restaurant Week spots are all an easy walk from the inn. For Goose Lake, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, or Portage, plan on a car or rideshare.