Every winter, just as Alaska begins leaning toward spring, Fur Rondy (short for Fur Rendezvous) takes over Anchorage with tradition, humor, and cold-weather fun. What started as a fur trading gathering in the 1930s has grown into one of Alaska’s most loved winter festivals—and a fantastic time to visit.
If you’re planning a winter trip, Fur Rondy offers a front-row seat to Alaska’s personality: tough, playful, and proudly unique.
A Bit of Fur Rondy History
Fur Rondy began as a way for trappers and miners to gather, sell furs, and celebrate surviving another winter. While it’s grown into a major festival, it still honors Alaska’s roots and community spirit—just with a lot more laughter and costumes.
The Fur Auction
The fur auction remains a cornerstone of Fur Rondy. Furs from across Alaska are bought and sold, reflecting the state’s long connection to trapping, subsistence, and self-reliance. Even as a spectator, it’s a fascinating look at Alaska’s working traditions.
Ice Sculpture Contest
The ice sculpture contest is one of Fur Rondy’s most impressive (and photogenic) events. Artists carve massive blocks of ice into detailed sculptures, often working outdoors in freezing temperatures. The finished pieces line the streets and glow beautifully at night—when night actually shows up, which in Alaska depends on the season.
Fat-Tire Bike Race
Winter doesn’t stop Alaskans from biking. The fat-tire bike race features riders speeding across snow and ice on oversized tires built for winter terrain. It’s fast, gritty, and very Alaska.
The Outhouse Race
Yes, it’s real—and yes, it’s hilarious. Teams build outhouses, put them on skis, dress in costumes, and race them down the street. The outhouse race perfectly captures Fur Rondy’s playful, anything-goes spirit.
The Reindeer Race
Another crowd favorite, the reindeer race, features teams guiding actual reindeer through a course. The reindeer don’t always cooperate, which makes the race unpredictable, chaotic, and unforgettable.
Why Visit Alaska During Fur Rondy
Fur Rondy combines lively winter days with cozy nights—exactly what Alaska does best. After hours outside in the cold, warm food, comfortable lodging, and a relaxed place to land matter even more.
Many visitors pair Fur Rondy with other classic Alaska winter traditions, including the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
At The Magic Moose Bed & Breakfast, Fur Rondy season means hearty breakfasts, cozy shared spaces, and a welcoming place to warm up after a full day outdoors.
Tips for First-Time Fur Rondy Visitors
- Dress in layers—weather can change quickly
- Expect crowds and embrace the chaos
- Don’t skip the quirky events; they’re the best part
- Balance busy festival days with quiet, cozy evenings
Fur Rondy isn’t just a festival—it’s Alaska showing off exactly who it is.