Fur Rondy: A First-Timer's Guide to Anchorage's Winter Festival

Anchorage's Fur Rendezvous — "Fur Rondy" — is one of the largest winter festivals in the country. If it's your first time, here's how to make sense of the ~10-day lineup.

A quick history

Fur Rondy started in 1935 as a midwinter gathering when trappers came to town to sell furs. It grew into Anchorage's signature winter blowout and still runs every late February into March.

The can't-miss events

• Open World Championship Sled Dog Race — sprint mushing through downtown
• Running of the Reindeer — the wild 4th Avenue dash (full guide here)
• Snow sculptures, the carnival, the fur auction, and the Grand Parade

Plan your visit

Many events are free; some have fees. Book Anchorage lodging early — Rondy leads right into the Iditarod ceremonial start, so the city fills up.

See dates and details on our Fur Rondy guide, and learn how to pair it with the Iditarod.