Good morning, Anchorage.

Bean’s Cafe is preparing to serve nearly 5,000 people today at its annual Christmas Eve feast, offering a warm meal for community members in Anchorage.

Anchorage business owners report a busy holiday season as digital marketing campaigns and festive events boost some sales while tougher consumer spending and cold weather slow others.

Pearl restaurant is hosting a New Year’s Eve party and shops have updated holiday hours for local shoppers.

Dr. Sarah Coburn has cleared Santa’s nine reindeer (led by Rudolph) today for their annual journey to deliver toys worldwide.

Residents can follow NORAD’s live updates on Christmas Eve to track Santa’s trip.

Denali National Park is offering a unique holiday experience at the base of Mount McKinley where visitors can ski, hike, camp, and rent gear plus see local wildlife; however, only one restaurant, two gas stations, and a grocery store remain open, so travelers should bring provisions.

Alaska fisheries faced significant challenges in 2025 from federal funding cuts (NOAA and related agencies) that reduced crucial research support while rising Bering Sea snow crab stocks and improved salmon harvests signal a hopeful turnaround; invasive species and environmental threats continue to complicate management.

The Anchorage School Board is discussing a four-day school week amid district budget challenges.

Some educators support the change, while officials note concerns over childcare and staff wages (underscoring the need for expert input).

State officials worry that falling oil prices will lead to a revenue shortfall for funding schools, highways, ferries, and other public services in Alaska.

Oil prices have dropped from $80 to around $61—possibly costing the state about $150 million if prices do not rise above $65 for a break-even budget.

Alaska’s Maxime Germain has been named to the U.S. Olympic biathlon team and will make his debut at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Games later this winter.

Germain, a West Anchorage High School graduate, earned the honor after the World Cup stop in France and is 34th in World Cup rankings.

Alaska Winter Survival Day Camp

10 AM – 3 PM — Anchorage Museum — Check website for pricing — Engage in fun S.T.E.A.M activities exploring survival in Alaskan winters.

New Year's Eve in Anchorage 2025-2026

7-9 p.m. — Chinook — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with fireworks and live music in Anchorage's downtown area.

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.