News Release
Travel to Anchorage for a Revved Up Rondy: New Events, New Web site, New Ways to Enjoy Anchorage’s Historic Festival
Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 28, 2007- Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous is getting a makeover. With hot travel deals, a host of new activities and a new Web site, 2008 will be the year to travel to Anchorage for Fur Rondy, Feb. 22 – March 2, 2008.
“This is real pioneer spirit,” says Julie Saupe, Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) president. “ In-state travelers can take advantage of hot deals within the city during the festival. There’s a lot that’s new this year during Fur Rondy and it’s a perfect time to visit Anchorage and have some fun.”
Like Anchorage itself, the festival has evolved throughout the years, offering interesting events like outhouse races, snowshoe softball, and live concerts. This year, there’s even more ways to enjoy this one-of-a-kind festival.
Take on Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich in a Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament. Tie a red scarf around your neck and run down city streets during the Pamplona-styled “Running of the Reindeer.” Handle the hounds and raise money for the World Championship Sled Dog Race purse by becoming an official pit crewmember for participating mushers. Peruse original, handcrafted works of art at the Alaska Native Arts Market, or watch world-class snowboarding and snocross events.
With two weeks filled with fun events for the whole family, Anchorage’s 2008 Fur Rendezvous offers in-state visitors mid-winter fun and excitement. Check out Fur Rondy’s new Web site for a complete list of events at www.furrondy.net.
2008 Fur Rondy Events include:
The Rondy World Championship Dog Weight Pull – This puppy power pull began in 1967. Canine athletes compete by hauling weighted sleds to the finish line. The heaviest single pulls recorded in Alaska occurred at previous Fur Rendezvous events. Two St. Bernards in the heavyweight class, Susitna (the father) and Kashwitna (the son), pulled an incredible 5,220 pounds each (Source: Alaska Outdoor Journal).
The Rondy World Championship Sled Dog Races – The World Championship Sled Dog Race debuted in 1946. This cornerstone event brings teams of sled dogs and drivers to Anchorage from across Alaska and the world. The 25-mile sprint race rushes through Anchorage and can be viewed at multiple locations throughout the city and local neighborhoods.
Rondy SnoCross – Intense snowmobiling action revs over double moguls and jumps in this extreme winter sports event.
Multi Tribal Gathering – This inter-tribal gathering features dance, music and songs of Alaska Native, Native American, Pacific Island and other indigenous cultures of the Western Hemisphere. Indigenous artists will be on-site with one-of-a-kind works of art available for purchase.
Alaska Sound Celebration Melodrama – Heat up the winter nights at this premiere Rondy event. Follow the hero and heroine as they try to foil a dastardly villain. With a new theme each year, this wild and wacky show is a truly Alaskan way to have fun (and practice popcorn throwing skills!)
Jim Beam Jam – Rock out with live bands, practice your line dancing, gobble up munchies, and grab a drink with friends at the official Rondy celebration.
Frostbite Footrace & Costume Fun Run – Don an outrageous costume and run through downtown Anchorage in this family oriented event. The footrace is two laps on a course around downtown. Little runners might chose to participate in the one-lap fun run with mom or dad.
The Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau’s mission is to attract and serve visitors to the Municipality of Anchorage. ACVB’s marketing functions are funded by one-third of the bed tax collected by the lodging association. One-third goes to the Municipality’s general fund and one-third goes to the Anchorage Civic & Convention Center construction project. ACVB receives no state or federal funds. Explore www.Anchorage.net for more information. ###
Media Contacts:
Shelly Wozniak
Public Relations Manager
Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau
swozinak@anchorage.net
(907) 257-2331 direct
(907) 250-5285 cell
(907) 222-3752 fax
Nance Larsen, APR
Vice President, Communications & Marketing Programs
Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau
pr@anchorage.net
(907) 276-4118
Explore www.Anchorage.net
