Alaska State Fair 2025: Dates, Tickets & Travel Guide

Set at the base of the Chugach Mountains, the Alaska State Fair is where Alaskans and travelers across the US come together to celebrate summer. From giant vegetables and local art to concerts and carnival rides, it is a uniquely Alaskan experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Alaska State Fair 2025 Dates, Location & Tickets

• Dates: August 21 – September 1, 2025 (open daily)
• Location: Alaska State Fairgrounds, 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer, Alaska
• Tickets: Buy Tickets Online

Admission prices may vary. Check the official website for current ticket info, concert schedules, and deals.

What Is the Alaska State Fair?

Held annually in Palmer, Alaska, the Alaska State Fair is where culture, agriculture, and community come together. It is best known for its record-breaking vegetables, think 2,000-pound pumpkins, and for showcasing the best of Alaska’s artists, farmers, and musicians. With world-class scenery and big-name entertainment, it is one of the most scenic fairs in the U.S.

What to Expect at the Alaska State Fair? 

• Carnival Rides & Games: Enjoy fun rides and classic midway games for kids and adults alike.
• Giant Vegetables & Flowers: See massive crops and colorful blooms grown under Alaska’s long summer daylight.
• Made in Alaska Market: Shop local crafts, handmade art, and unique foods made by Alaskan vendors.
• Live Music & Concerts: Watch performances from popular national acts and talented local artists.
• Livestock & Ag Exhibits: Get up close with farm animals and explore hands-on agricultural displays.
• Scenic Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains all around the fairgrounds.

Expert Tips for Visiting the State Fair

• Bring Warm Clothes: Even in August, Palmer can feel cold at night.
• Best Way to Get There: It is easiest to drive or rent a car. The fair is 45 miles from Anchorage.
• Catch the Sunset: The view over Pioneer Peak is amazing. Keep your camera ready.
• Make a Day of It: You can also go hiking, visit a glacier, or take a trip to Denali.
• Stay Nearby: Palmer has places to camp, including spots for RVs and tents.

Top Attractions to visit near the Matanuska-Susitna Valley

• Matanuska Glacier: Take a guided walk on a real glacier just an hour from the fair.
• Reindeer Farm: Meet moose, reindeer, alpacas, and other friendly animals just minutes away.
• Outdoor Adventures: Try fishing, kayaking, or book a flightseeing tour in the nearby valley.
• Hatcher Pass & Independence Mine: Explore old gold mining ruins surrounded by mountain views.

Why Visit the Alaska State Fair in 2025?

If you are looking to experience Alaska beyond cruises and glaciers, this is it. The Alaska Fair is a cultural deep dive wrapped in fun. It is where you’ll eat fresh salmon, meet giant cabbages, and dance under northern skies, all in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions