Salmonfest: A First-Timer's Guide to the Kenai's Music Weekend

Salmonfest is the Kenai Peninsula's big summer music weekend — three days, multiple stages, and dozens of bands at the fairgrounds in Ninilchik, all wrapped around a cause. If it's your first time, here's the lay of the land.

What it is

Held the first weekend of August at the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds, Salmonfest blends a packed music lineup with wild-salmon and clean-water advocacy. Its motto says it all: "Fish, Love & Music."

The vibe

Laid-back and outdoorsy. Most people camp on-site and make a weekend of it, drifting between stages with food and craft vendors in between.

Plan ahead

Weekend passes are the popular ticket, and camping fills up — buy early. Pack for cool, possibly rainy Kenai weather.

See dates and details on our Salmonfest guide, read our camping guide, and learn how to get there and what else to do on the Kenai.