If you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re either planning a trip to Alaska to experience the Iditarod and the Fur Rendezvous, or you’re curious what all the hubbub over these celebrations is about. After going to theses events many times over the years, I can tell you attending the Iditarod starts (more about the two starts later), and the Fur Rendezvous events are worth the hype. Below, I’ll give you the inside scoop on the events and activities, and let you know what to wear and what to expect at these events. So, let’s sled on into an Alaskan’s guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy!
What is the Iditarod and Fur Rondy?
First things first, let’s go over what the Iditarod and Fur Rendezvous (Fur Rondy) are. These are two separate events that occur at the same time, and help all of us Alaskan’s get through the last part of the dark winter days because spring is near (or nearish!) when Fur Rondy is here!
What to Expect at Fur Rondy
Fur Rondy events occur from the end of February to the beginning of March. This is a winter festival held in Anchorage that is comprised of a variety of entertaining and exciting events! It started in 1935 and continues to bring joy to Alaskan’s and visitors ever since. You can expect to see some unique events at this “only in Alaska” style celebration. Those include a snow sculpture contest, a winter carnival with rides, food, and more, blanket toss, a parade, fireworks, fur auctions, an outhouse race, running of the reindeer, and more!
My favorite Fur Rondy event is the Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market. This event is held at the Dimond Center Mall and features Alaska Native artists. You’ll be able to speak with the artists and purchase their handcrafted items such as masks, fur hats and gloves, ivory carvings, jewelry, beadwork, baskets, paintings, and more. As you can tell, there’s really a lot happening at this Alaskan celebration, so you can check out the events calendar here!
Iditarod History and the Two Starts
If you’ve ever watched Balto or Togo you probably know of the importance of sled dog teams in Alaska. The famous pups that made the serum trek to Nome saved many lives, and dog teams have been an integral part of transportation in Alaska. The Iditarod, “The Last Great Race”, keeps the spirit of mushing alive and well by having mushers from around the globe gather in Alaska and race from Willow to Nome.
The Iditarod starts occur at the beginning of March. There are two options to see the start of the Iditarod. The first “start” is in downtown Anchorage. It’s a ceremonial start and runs through part of the city. You can view it right from the starting line downtown, or choose a place along the route to watch from. Many visitors choose to watch from downtown, while locals watch from the starting line or one of the many places along the route though Anchorage.
I’ve only watched the ceremonial start from downtown, and it’s fun to be a part of the hustle and bustle and excitement of it all. Plus, you get a first hand look at how the sled dogs (who I first thought would be big, fluffy huskies, but are actually sleek, smaller, and very enthusiastic pups), handlers, and mushers work together, and can feel the anticipation for the real start the following day.
The Iditarod’s real start is in Willow, which is about ninety minutes or so from Anchorage. Many Alaskan’s attend this event, and send the mushers and their furry teammates off with Alaskan hospitality. It’s one big, fun celebration. For as much as I love the downtown ceremonial start, I love the restart even more. Everyone is bundled up and sipping warm drinks while the adventurers mush off onto the trail of “The Last Great Race” and begin their journey.
What should I wear to the Iditarod start and Fur Rondy?
While we’re on the subject of bundling up and sipping warm drinks, I figured I’d touch on what you should wear to stay warm and comfortable at these events. First off, you’ll want to check the weather and take that into consideration. Secondly, take into account what weather you’re acclimated to, and plan accordingly. Some year’s the weather is warm enough to wear jeans and a base layer, and other years you want to wear a full snowsuit with a face mask to protect you from the wind! The weather can be so unpredictable that, as with any other activity in Alaska, it’s best to layer. For details on the best gear and ways to layer for winter weather, check out my winter clothing post here!
What activities are there at these events?
As I listed above, there are so many fun events and activities to participate in during Fur Rondy and the Iditarod. Below, I’ll recap some of my favorites!
Alaska State Snow Sculpture Championship
The only type of snow sculpture I can create is a snowman, so seeing the talent of these snow sculptors is amazing to me! This event is located close to the ceremonial Iditarod start in downtown Anchorage, and showcases a variety of creative snow sculptures that are a must see.
Fur Rondy Carnival
Also located downtown, this carnival is a winter treat for everyone. I think it’s so fun to see all the carnival rides and lights during winter, and it’s a really neat experience for visitors as well, since not often do you get to have a carnival in winter.
The Fur Auction
The fur auction is a really interesting event to see. It’s fun to watch people bid on items, see how much things go for, and check out the furs everyone wears to these events, which are held in downtown Anchorage.
Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market
I can’t say enough good things about this market. It’s really a must visit event. Seeing the art is one thing, but getting to meet the artists really is the cherry on top! Plus, you know you’re getting authentic Alaskan items, which are often hard to come by. For more information on great Alaska items to purchase and where to buy them, check out my post here!
The Iditarod Starts
Don’t miss the Iditarod start! Whether you make it to the start or the restart (or even both!), you’re in for a great time and a real Alaskan experience!
I hope this guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy has helped you in your Alaska activity and travel planning. These are all events that I love and enjoy, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
If you have questions about traveling to Alaska, or the Iditarod and Fur Rondy, feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!