Good morning, Anchorage.

Alaska Airlines reversed its mid-2025 in-cabin ban on rabbits on January 14, allowing pet owners to travel safely with their small companions.

The change followed customer feedback and requires travelers to reserve a spot and use a soft-sided carrier.

Willow is hosting its 64th annual state winter carnival, with events beginning today at 6 p.m. and continuing over this weekend and next.

Anchorage hosts the 37th annual Folk Festival this weekend, featuring ticketed headliner shows (such as The Henhouse Prowlers at Odd Man Rush Brewing) and free performances at Wendy Williamson Auditorium, plus workshops and local events like improv comedy and an Alaska Symphony concert across town.

On Jan. 21, 2026, the Alaska House Finance Committee held a teleconference about an oil revival on the North Slope — noting improvements at Milne Point and federal drilling plans.

Forecasts suggest production could reach 465,000 bopd as projects gain fresh momentum.

State biologists say the Porcupine Caribou Herd declined by about a third from its 2017 peak of 218,000 to an estimated 143,000 based on a July photocensus; the large, migratory group remains the state’s largest amid debates over oil drilling in its critical calving area.

At a Bellevue meeting on Thursday, the International Pacific Halibut Commission announced that daily limits for unguided recreational halibut fishing remain at 2 fish for local anglers while Canadian limits are lower.

State officials said increased rental boat use has raised concerns + prompted talks at the regional council.

Seed racks are back in stores, marking the indoor gardening season in Alaska and urging gardeners to plan their seed purchases carefully.

Marion Owen will host seed starting classes on Wed, Jan. 28 so participants can learn tips for better germination.

UAA announced Wednesday (via a press release) that head volleyball coach Stacie Meisner is on leave and will launch a national search for her replacement this spring.

Assistant Morgan Hooe will serve as acting head coach, and the school remains committed to supporting its student-athletes and athletics staff.

Eight Alaska cross-country skiers, including four from APU Nordic Ski Center, were named Thursday to the 2026 U.S. Olympic team and will travel to Italy (Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium) for the games.

The team includes veterans Rosie Brennan and Gus Schumacher, with events set from Feb. 7 to Feb. 22.

Former Olympian Kikkan Randall (born and raised Alaskan) discussed Team USA's cross-country ski roster featuring local talent in a video report published on Jan.

22 ahead of the Winter Olympics.

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.

2026 Alaska Forum Conference

8 AM – 5 PM — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Open to attendees — Expanding opportunities with the inaugural Alaska Forum Career & Craft Fair.

22nd Annual All Alaska Roundup

2 PM – 12 PM — Hilton Anchorage — Check event page for registration fees — An annual recovery event fostering community support and connection in Anchorage.

2026 ASBJJF Adult and Masters GI Championship

9:15 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Avis Alaska Sports Complex — Registration fees applicable — Experience the thrilling competition of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Alaska.

Mushing Dogs to the Top of Denali: The 1979 Expedition

6-7 p.m. — Anchorage Museum — Free entry — Experience the thrilling story of the first ascent of Denali through the eyes of expedition members and author Nan Elliot.

Alaska Fighting Championship 173

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Sullivan Arena — Tickets available — Experience a night of thrilling mixed martial arts action in Anchorage.

25th Annual Guns N Hoses Charity Hockey Game

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Sullivan Arena — Check local listings for ticket info — A thrilling charity hockey game putting local heroes on the ice for a great cause.