Alaska State Fair 2024

The Alaska State Fair is held in Palmer from late August to Labour Day. This fair is a highlight of the state's summer, attracting thousands of visitors eager to experience its unique offerings. With a rich history, a stunning location, and a wide range of activities and attractions, the fair offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in the giant vegetable exhibits, live concerts, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the fair promises a memorable experience.

Activities and Exhibits

The Alaska State Fair is renowned for its diverse range of activities and exhibits. Visitors can look forward to thrilling rides, a variety of foods, large exhibits, and numerous concerts. According to the organizers, the fair boasts around 450 vending booths and about 70 food vendors offering everything from hot dogs and burgers to Alaskan seafood and cream puffs. Notably, the fair is famous for its giant vegetable exhibits, including record-setting cabbages, pumpkins, and gourds. In addition to the vegetable displays, there are also art exhibits, baked goods, livestock shows, and woodworking demonstrations. The fair also features a rodeo, Diaper Derby, and Alaska Grown Games, providing entertainment for all ages.

Fair Hours

he Alaska State Fair operates with varying hours throughout its run. Typically, the fair opens its gates at 11 am on weekdays and at 10 am on weekends. Closing times usually extend until 10 pm on weekdays and 11 pm on weekends. Special hours may apply on certain days, such as holidays or special event days, ensuring flexibility for fairgoers.

Concerts and Performances Schedule

Live concerts are a major highlight of the Alaska State Fair. The 2024 Concert Series features a mix of nationally renowned artists and local talent. Concerts typically take place in the evenings, offering a variety of musical genres to suit diverse tastes. Natasha Bedingfield kicks off the festivities on August 16, followed by Justin Moore on August 17 and Straight No Chaser on August 18. Mt. Joy takes the stage on August 19, with Wynonna Judd performing on August 22. Ludacris, whose shows on August 23 and 25 are already sold out, is a highlight of the fair. Other notable acts include Halestorm on August 24, NEEDTOBREATHE on August 26, Kolohe Kai on August 29, and Theory of a Deadman on August 30. The schedule wraps up with Whiskey Myers on August 31, Oliver Anthony on September 1, and Stephen Sanchez on September 2.

Tickets and Parking

Ticket prices for the Alaska State Fair vary depending on the day and type of entry. General admission tickets for the Alaska State Fair are priced at $16, with discounts available for children, seniors, and military personnel. Children five and under enjoy complimentary entry. For those planning multiple visits, there are 6-pack tickets for $66 and 4-pack tickets for $48. Season passes are also available for $75 for adults, $55 for seniors, and $45 for youth. Concert tickets range from $39 to $89 for lawn and reserved seating. Combo tickets, which include both the concert and fair admission, range from $51 to $101, offering options to suit various preferences and budgets.

Parking And Camping

Parking at the Alaska State Fair is free for 2024. For those planning to stay overnight, RV parking is available at $20 per day, $80 per week, or $120 for the entire season. Tent camping costs $5 per day or $30 for the season. Premier parking, offering closer access, is $25 per day or $125 for the season.

Location and Infrastructure

The fairgrounds are located in Palmer, approximately one hour north of Anchorage, nestled in the Chugach Mountains within the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. The scenic location adds to the appeal of the fair, offering visitors stunning mountain views alongside the fair's attractions.

History of the Fair

The Western Alaska Fair began in Anchorage in 1924 and lasted until 1929, with M.D. Snodgrass from the Matanuska Valley as one of its organizers. Snodgrass, a retired experiment station employee, played a crucial role in recruiting settlers to the Matanuska Valley for the Alaska Railroad. In 1935, he helped establish the Northland Pioneer Grange No. 1 in Palmer, along with other settlers brought by the railroad. The U.S. government's effort to populate the Matanuska Valley in 1935 led to the arrival of 203 families from various states. These colonists built homes and established a community. In 1936, the Grange, under Snodgrass's leadership, organized the first fair in Palmer, seen as a replacement for the defunct Western Alaska Fair. This led to the formation of the Matanuska Valley Agricultural and Industrial Fair Association, which held its inaugural event in September 1936, featuring agricultural exhibits and various entertainment. The fair grew in prominence, eventually becoming the Alaska State Fair.