Since 1952, Fairbanks has hosted Golden Days every third week of July. It's an authentic celebration with plenty of fun activities for all ages. Golden Days festival features the biggest parade in Alaska, a rubber duckie race on the Chena River, foot races, a BBQ cook-off, and a street fair. Many people dress up as miners or other characters of the Gold Rush era creating a unique atmosphere in Downtown Fairbanks. No wonder the Golden Days fest was named one of the top 100 events in the U.S. by Destination Magazine!
Grande Parade in Fairbanks is always held on Saturday morning, around 10 am. The procession features over 100 floats, marching bands, and costumed participants. The parade is followed by Rubber Duckie Race on the Chena River, held in downtown Fairbanks, from Wendell Street Bridge to Cushman Street Bridge. At 3 pm, about 8,000 rubber ducks are dropped into the river. Participants can buy a duck for $5 and win $5,000 if their duck is first across the finish line.
The Street Fair takes place on First Avenue, and the Golden Heart Plaza from 9 am to 5 pm. Vendors offer arts, crafts, and yummy food. The Kids Korner features face painting, pony rides, and various free activities. Live music is played on the Main Stage throughout the day.
Other activities, which are usually held during Golden Days, include the Poke of Gold scavenger hunt, the River Regatta of crazy and ridiculous rafts on the Chena River. and the Old Tyme Games, which include watermelon eating contests, log splitting, and other fun competitions.
