Good morning, Anchorage.

Anchorage will host its first ComedySportz improv show on Friday, Jan.

9 at Williwaw with teams competing in improv games as a referee and audience score the performances; local veteran Rich Capitan founded the chapter and plans to offer classes later.

The Alaska Botanical Garden is lighting up winter evenings with a special display that began yesterday and will run through the season (visitors can explore the garden after dark).

A cold weather advisory warns that temperatures will drop to -25 tonight and early Sunday, and city officials have expanded warming centers and shelter capacity for unhoused residents at local sites - including the transit and safety centers.

A winter storm will raise temperatures after Sunday afternoon.

Western Alaska evacuees staying in Anchorage hotels are now moving into temporary housing after Typhoon Halong; state officials reported that more than 150 individuals have been relocated while over 500 remain in hotels due to financial and logistical challenges (including background checks and furnishing delays).

The first baby of 2026 from Providence Alaska Medical Center was born early New Year's Day to 21-year-old Margaret Crump; newborn Bentley, delivered at 6:20 a.m., entered NICU for breathing support (Crump almost delivered at home before help arrived).

Alaskans are giving Dry January a try to cut back on alcohol after the holidays, according to Recovery Alaska (nonprofit) expert Tiffany Hall.

She advises making a plan, sharing commitments with family, and choosing alternatives like tea or walks to improve well-being.

State health officials reported about 1,100 flu cases this season and three deaths from complications, urging seniors, young children, and others at high risk (including those with chronic conditions) to seek prompt treatment.

Vaccination remains the best way to help prevent severe illness.

The first baby of 2026 was born at Providence Alaska Medical Center when 21-year-old Margaret Crump delivered Bentley early on New Year’s Day.

USA Hockey announced the 25-player Olympic men’s hockey roster on Friday, including Anchorage native Jeremy Swayman – a key contributor in last year’s IIHF win.

The team will compete in Italy and aims to build on recent successes ahead of the 2026 Winter Games.

UAA's men's team began 2026 with an 80-71 win over Simon Fraser on New Year's Day at the Alaska Airlines Center, with coach Osborne returning from leave.

The women's team rallied to a 76-71 win (sophomore Harrison tallied 29 points) for their first conference victory under coach Thune.

Anchorage Symphony - Silent Film Night

7:30 p.m. — Anchorage Symphony Orchestra — Ticketed event — Enjoy a unique pairing of live symphonic music with classic silent films.

Jason Russell at Koot's

8-11:59 p.m. — Chilkoot Charlie's — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a high-energy, family-friendly comedy show from the dynamic Jason Russell.

Candlelight Concert: Rings and Dragons

6:30-7:29 p.m. — 49th State Brewing — $27.65 — Experience an enchanting musical journey with a tribute to fantasy themes by candlelight.