Good morning, Anchorage.

Palmer’s 2025 Alaska State Fair opens Friday and runs until Sept.

1 with a break midweek, offering free parking, the return of the fair train, and hands-on contests such as scarecrow building and log rolling. The first weekend features family attractions and concerts from acts like Medium Build, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, and Weird Al Yankovic + interactive exhibits that bring new twists to familiar favorites.

The three final Jesuit priests—who first arrived in 1887—are set to leave Alaska in 2026, ending nearly 140 years of service that built the local Catholic Church.

They say their departure marks the completion of their mission as they leave behind a legacy of community service and past challenges.

Fire season in Alaska has wound down as cooler nights, rain, and shorter days eased wildfire danger and lowered the Preparedness Level from 2 to 1 — 420 fires burned 995,000 acres while crews prepared for further incidents; in addition, some crews are heading to the lower 48 to help with the strong national fire season and burn permits remain needed for open burning until the end of August.

Jude Schimmel, an Indigenous basketball star, joined the UAA women’s coaching staff today to mentor Seawolf players and share her heritage.

Head coach Matt Thune recruited her from Louisville as the team grows its roster in preparation for the 2025-26 season (the staff has expanded significantly since this summer).

Meet the 4-H Horses

11 a.m. — France Equestrian Center — FREE — Experience a daily rendezvous with 4-H horses and learn more about their care and training.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise Concert

11 AM – 8 PM — Alaska State Fair — Ticket prices vary — Experience a genre-defying performance by Rainbow Kitten Surprise at the Alaskan Fair.

"Weird Al" Yankovic Concert

2-3:30 p.m. — Alaska State Fair — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary multimedia comedy rock show featuring classic parodies and fan favorites.

Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Bear Tooth Theatrepub — Cost not specified — A captivating journey through the 60-year career of The Zombies, highlighting their iconic hits and legacy.

ADF's Summer Socials: Bike Tour

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Anchorage Museum — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful bike tour around Anchorage, soaking in the summer weather and connecting with fellow biking enthusiasts.

Mastodon Concert at Alaska State Fair

6-8 p.m. — Alaska State Fair — $49-$71 plus Fair admission — Experience the iconic metal band Mastodon live on their Infinite Arc Tour.

Billy Currington Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — ConocoPhillips Borealis Theatre — Cost not specified — Experience a night of chart-topping country hits from multi-platinum artist Billy Currington.

Wiz Khalifa Live at Alaska State Fair

10 a.m. — Alaska State Fair — Fair admission is additional — Experience a live performance by multi-platinum artist Wiz Khalifa.

The Beach Boys Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Alaska State Fair — $49-$101 (Fair admission additional) — Experience the enduring sound of America's iconic surf rock band.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

9-10 p.m. — 49th State Brewing — Ticket purchase required — Experience the magic of candlelight concerts featuring beloved hits from Coldplay and Imagine Dragons.