Fur Rondy
Anchorage's iconic winter festival
The Anchorage Fur Rendezvous — "Fur Rondy" — is one of the country's largest winter festivals, running ~10 days each late February with world-championship sled dog sprints, the Running of the Reindeer, outhouse races, a carnival, and more.
Dates
Feb 26 – Mar 8, 2026
annual
Where
Anchorage
downtown
Length
~10 days
Cost
Many free
events vary
The guide
Fur Rondy · Annual, late February into March
What it is
Born in 1935 as a midwinter gathering for trappers, Fur Rondy is now Anchorage's signature winter blowout — a packed schedule of races, competitions, and downtown events that leads right into the Iditarod ceremonial start.
Don't-miss events
The Open World Championship Sled Dog Race, the Running of the Reindeer down 4th Avenue, the carnival, the fur auction, snow sculptures, and the Rondy Grand Parade.
Plan your visit
It overlaps the Iditarod ceremonial start (first Saturday of March) — many visitors do both in one trip. Book Anchorage lodging early for that weekend.
Plan around it
Events near Downtown Anchorage
On the calendar
Related events
Plan your trip
Tours & things to do
Things to Do in Alaska
Tours, adventures & once-in-a-lifetime experiences
Denali National Park Day Tour
$299+Full-day tour to Denali with wildlife spotting, mountain views, and a guided nature walk.
Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
$179+Cruise Prince William Sound to see glaciers calving, whales, sea otters, and bald eagles.
Alaska Railroad Scenic Train
$149+Ride the Alaska Railroad through mountain passes with panoramic dome car views.
Flightseeing Tour: Glaciers & Denali
$299+Small-plane flight over glaciers, Ruth Gorge, and Denali's south face.
Local partners
Where to eat & stay
Good to know
Fur Rondy FAQ
When is Fur Rondy 2026?
February 26 – March 8, 2026, in downtown Anchorage. It runs about ten days each late winter.
What is there to do at Fur Rondy?
Sled dog sprint racing, the Running of the Reindeer, a carnival, snow sculptures, the fur auction, the Grand Parade, and dozens of community events.
Is Fur Rondy free?
Many events are free to watch; some (carnival rides, the Running of the Reindeer entry, certain races) have fees.
Does Fur Rondy connect to the Iditarod?
Yes — it leads right into the Iditarod ceremonial start in Anchorage, so you can catch both in one trip. See our Iditarod hub.
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