The Fourth of the July is a special time here in Anchorage: a day full of fireworks, festivals, friend, and fun. Deciding where to spend Independence Day is always a tough decision, with so many great events going on around our community, and this year’s Fourth is no exception.
To help you make your Fourth of July celebration one to remember as well as to pay tribute to the independence of our great country, here are a few events in and around Anchorage worth checking out on Thursday:
Eagle River Independence Day Celebrations
Friday 6:30 to midnight, Saturday 2 p.m.
This two-day event begins on July 3 at Lions Park, with fireworks at midnight. Enjoy community entertainment, skydivers, games, and concessions. On July 4, the annual Chugiak Parade begins at 2 p.m. at the Latimer Fire Station on Old Glenn Highway.
Anchorage July 4th Celebration Parade & Festival
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Celebrate America’s birthday in downtown Anchorage. In true Alaska style, this old-fashioned, patriotic celebration is complete with family-oriented events such as the pancake breakfast, downtown parade, picnic, and other activities.
Mount Marathon Race
10 a.m.
From its start as a bet between two Seward locals in 1915, the Mount Marathon race has become iconic. Competitors race from downtown to the top of Mount Marathon and back in both open and junior divisions.
We’d like to remind you to drive defensively when attending the Mount Marathon race or any other event in Mt. Marathon. Each year, tragic collisions happen on the Seward Highway, as tired, impatient, or even drunk drivers make passing maneuvers on this dangerous stretch of road. If you can, leave a day early for the festivities.
Food Truck Carnival
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A weekly staple in Anchorage is the Food Truck Carnival. The carnival takes place every Thursday and is just a five-minute drive from the Kelley & Canterbury LLC office in the overflow parking lot next to Chilkoot Charlie’s on Spenard Road.
Remember to drive carefully in the urban and suburban areas of Anchorage as you travel to and from this year’s festivities. There is typically a lot of construction going on this time of year, so be aware of changing road conditions and traffic patterns. Give yourself more than enough time to get where you’re going. In addition, watch out for motorcycles and kids on bikes.
We want to wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July, and amidst all the celebration, hope you take time to remember what it took, and still takes, to secure and maintain freedom and independence in America.
Leave a Reply