The city has a full plate this weekend. The Anchorage Weekender collected nine things to do in the city this weekend, from live music and festivals to a 5K.
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1. First Friday
Friday night, various locations
- International Gallery of Contemporary Art (427 D St.): The gallery is featuring a trio of artists this month: Michael Conti, Xochiyollotl Carrow Harbison and Jackie Bowling. View a variety of pieces, from photography to acrylic paintings. The exhibit is on view through Aug. 28.
- Anchorage Museum (625 C St.): Get into the museum for free from 6 to 9 p.m. In the theater at 6:30 p.m., there’s a special showing of “Laughing all the Way to the Brink,” a program highlighting climate change and the power to make a difference. There are also a few guided presentations throughout the evening.
- Wildbirch Hotel (239 W. 4th Ave.): Acclaimed Anchorage artist Ted Kim will be showing more than 20 new pieces in the lower lobby from 5 to 8 p.m. While perusing, enjoy live music from DJ Cross and light refreshments.
- First United Methodist Church (725 W. 9th Ave.): Two new murals by Rhonda Scottwill be showcased from 4 to 7 p.m. Take a picture with the “Wings” mural for a free sticker. There will also be free face painting, activities and snacks.
2. Hippie Sabotage and Waka Flocka Flame
Friday, 7 p.m., 7th Ave. and F Street
DJ, turn it up, Anchorage is ready to jam: Rapper Waka Flocka Flame is returning to downtown Anchorage this weekend, alongside hip-hop duo Hippie Sabotage. This show is part of Showdown Alaska’s ongoing Summer Concert Series. Tickets are about $80, and kids 12 and younger get in for free with a parent or legal guardian. Find bag policies and prohibited items here.
3. Trail Brushing
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Muktuk Marston Trailhead (Arctic Valley Road)
Volunteer with other outdoor enthusiasts to work on the Muktuk Marston Trail. Organizers say hiking is easy to moderate, with no more than 1.5 miles total, and recommend bringing rain gear, water and safety glasses. The event is open to those 12 and older. Participants can register online.
4. Christopher Walden 5K
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hilltop Ski Area (7015 Abbott Rd.)
If you’re heading to the Hillside, consider trading your mountain bike for sneakers. Participants can run or walk the 3.1-mile course. This annual event benefits the Christopher Walden Foundation of Hope, which supports individuals in recovery. Registration is $45.
5. Arctic Thunder Open House
Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson
Do you have a need, a need for speed? If so, this is your chance to catch the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron perform acrobatic maneuvers. The air show also features the Golden Knights parachute team, F-22 Demonstration Team and more. The open house is also a chance to see aircraft and other equipment up close. . You don’t need a military ID to attend, and the event is free and open to the public. Organizers recommend bringing hearing protection.
Gates open at 9 a.m. Attendees can enter JBER through the Fort Richardson Gate or the Boniface Gate, where they’ll be directed to free parking. After noon, officials say no traffic will be allowed through either gate.
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6. Day of Comedy
Saturday, noon to 10 p.m., The Nave (3502 Spenard Rd.)
From an improv showcase to workshops and a roast battle, if you’re looking to laugh all day long, this is for you. The event is recommended for comics 18 and older after 3 p.m. and costs $15 at the door.
7. Japanese Summer Festival
Sunday, noon to 3 p.m., Kincaid Chalet (6998 Raspberry Rd.)
Hosted by Japan Alaska Association and the Consular Office of Japan in Anchorage, this annual event includes a wide variety of cultural performances, including taiko drumming, ink painting and more. A variety of food options will also be available.
8. Stories at the Cemetery
Sunday, 6 p.m., Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery (626 Cordova St.)
Actors will share stories of Anchorage residents who were buried at the city’s first official cemetery. More than 11,000 people have been buried at the cemetery since it was established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1915. Organizers recommend bringing a lawn chair. It’s a free event, but organizers say donations are appreciated.
9. News and Brews Trivia
Monday, 6 p.m., 907 Alehouse and Grill (8001 Old Seward Hwy.)
Join Alaska Public Media for News & Brews Trivia at 907 Alehouse, hosted in partnership with Nerdvana Trivia. The evening kicks off with a casual meet-and-greet with local reporters, followed by trivia at 6:30 p.m.
This event is free and open to everyone. Just show up, grab a pint or some grub and get ready to show off your Alaska trivia chops!
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