Anchorage is home to nearly 50,000 Alaska Native people, and annual gatherings are a much-anticipated part of the Native culture. These can be some of the best opportunities to interact with Alaska Native locals, watch dance groups from various regions and experience a variety of Native cultures.
Alaska Federation of Natives Convention and First Alaskans Institute Elders and Youth Conference
Thousands of Alaska Native people from all over Alaska come together for these two annual gatherings, which coincide each year at the same location. While some meetings are open only to convention delegates, everyone is welcome to the vendor booths, Alaska Native Art Fair, Alaska Marketplace and other events.
The most popular public event is “Quyana Nights,” which features Alaska Native dance groups from around the state are in 30-minute, back-to-back performances. Tickets are low-cost and go quickly!
Alaska Native Heritage Center Events
Throughout the year, the Alaska Native Heritage Center hosts several special events open to the public. The winter schedule is created especially with locals in mind. Events are typically free, and provide a more intimate setting for interacting with Alaska Native people from all over Alaska.
Annual favorites include the Intertribal Gathering in November, Holiday Bazaar in December, Indigenous Film Festival in January and Mother’s Day Celebration (which kicks off the summer season) in May. The winter schedule also includes a single and multi-day classes such as traditional weaving, carving and language.
Anchorage Fur Rendezvous Multi Tribal Gathering
A relative newcomer to the annual Fur Rendezvous winter festival held each February and March, the Multi Tribal Gathering is a celebration of the many Alaska Native and American Indian cultures. The promise of a wide variety of dance groups and fry bread draws many to the gathering, and participants often find themselves taking part of the dancing.
Southcentral Foundation Annual Gathering
Thousands in the Anchorage community participate in the Southcentral Foundation Annual Gathering each year, which features family wellness games like Nutrition Bingo, watch Alaska Native dance groups, enjoy free food, and more.
NYO Games Alaksa
In late spring each year, NYO games Alaska are host to some of the most extraordinary physical feats in the world. Athletes compete in events like the Seal Hop, Wrist Carry and Alaskan High Kick – games passed down from history for present-day hunters to hone their skills. (this can link to the event feature on NYO games in this section.
