Framed by the majestic Chugach Mountains and the deep blue expanse of Cook Inlet, Anchorage, Alaska, is a scenic location unlike any other. Where else can you stand on a glacier, then catch a tan on the beach?
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and embodies the unique fusion of big city life with the natural beauty of sprawling Alaskan wilderness. The city is home to a population of over 285,000 people and has a comprehensive list of activities to enjoy. This is the ultimate spot for outdoor lovers, with more activities than you can imagine. Take to one of the national parks and you’ll have the opportunity to hike some of the most stunning terrain on the planet. The bodies of water in and around the city are ideal for boat tours, fishing, kayaking and so much more. If it's fun and can be done outdoors, Alaska has it.
The city itself offers the opportunity to partake in a multitude of fun things to do. Hit one of the great local restaurants and you’ll find some of the best seafood on the planet, as well as nearly any type of food that will pop into mind. The rich history of the city, and Alaska in general, is on display at local museums, landmarks, and historical buildings. The sites are fun, educational and give you a new perspective of the city. Anchorage is also a community that loves to celebrate and you can certainly tell when you attend a major area event like the Anchorage 4th July Celebration.
For over five decades, the Anchorage 4th July Celebration has been the biggest and best Independence Day celebration in Alaska. Attracting roughly 20,000 people, this event has something for all ages and backgrounds. There are ample activities for kids like games, rides and vendors selling treats. All ages can enjoy great live music on two stages and a wonderful selection of food. Vibrant parades add to the festive atmosphere as well. With so much going on, you can't help but have a great experience at the Anchorage 4th July Celebration. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview Elisa Hitchcock of Anchorage Fairs & Fesitvals, to talk about this highly anticipated celebration.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.
EH: Anchorage 4th July Celebration has been running 15 years since the inclusion of Anchorage Fairs & Festivals, and approximately 53 years with the Veterans Parade. We have approximately 20,000 people attend this community event, which includes parade participants and vendors. Families make up the bulk of our attendees and the children love getting involved in all of the action. They can enjoy games, toys, bouncy houses, rides, and plenty of food (including ice cream). There are also opportunities to hear a reading of the Declaration of Independence, bring a picnic lunch to enjoy with your family, and mingle with the many costumed participants. Folks can listen to two different stages of great live entertainment, all day.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event.
EH: The day begins with a Pancake Breakfast at 8:00 am, the local Parade at 11:00 am (with approximately 50 entries), and our local Harvard Club reading of the Declaration of Independence begins at 1:00 pm.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
EH: Our special guests often include our Mayor and Governor, along with a selection of special musicians. We are especially proud of our relationship with the University of Washington Huskies Marching Band, who flies up each year to perform in the parade and on the Park Strip. Many local musical groups entertain the crowd. Alaska is full of professional, high quality musicians of all styles, and we provide a sampling of them at each stage throughout the day. We anticipate having a “Flash Mob” with a local hip-hop dancing group showcasing music by “Prince” in front of the Big Stage early in the afternoon.
RAL: What type of food options will there be?
EH: There are 30-40 food trucks and food booths, with menus ranging from traditional American to Russian and Hawaiian food. We are still receiving applications at this time, so check out our website or our Facebook page for updates and information!
RAL: What is the overall environment of the event like?
EH: This entire event is held outdoors in downtown Anchorage, on a grassy park strip that is one block wide and five blocks long. There is enough space to house two stages, up to 50 vendors, various artists and nonprofits, a bike corral, and numerous games and rides.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
EH: We recommend folks make their lodging arrangements before they get to Alaska, as our B&B’s, boutique hotels, and larger hotels fill up fast, especially those in the downtown area. Downtown Anchorage is a good place to walk around and discover local specialty shops, restaurants, art galleries, and museums.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
EH: Yes! Each of the vendors who participate are able to achieve their financial goals, and they in turn utilize local services and purchase local items. Attendees also gain familiarity with local groups participating at the event, which helps keep the economy vibrant.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
EH: Alaska is an unsurpassed destination and Anchorage showcases just a small slice of what you can enjoy during an Alaskan getaway. Anchorage’s July 4th Celebration is large, friendly and fun, and a great event to experience all that Alaska has to offer.
Feature article about the Anchorage 4th July Celebration, please visit their website.