Events in Seward Alaska
There's always something going on in Seward. Here are a few of the year-round highlights that you just won't want to miss.
Military Appreciation Week
Seward is home to the only military recreation camps in the state of Alaska and our patriotic spirit runs deep. From Armed Services Day through Memorial Day, Seward businesses come together to offer special activities, events, and discounts to our fellow citizens in uniform. We honor you with a special picnic kickoff, a combat fishing tournament, and a special sightseeing cruise into Resurrection Bay. It's the least we can do to say "thank you".
For a list of activities and discounts, click here.
Seward Harbor Opening Weekend
Harbor Opening Weekend is always held the 3rd weekend in May! Great fun! Entertainment! Parade of Boats, Open House on more than 30 boats, Boat Decorating Contest, Contests for Kids - Knot Tying, Sailboat Race, Club Open House & Breakfast, Sidewalk Sales, Passport with Grand Prizes, Merchant's Treasure Chest and Prize Drawings! plus much, much more!
Seward Harbor Opening Weekend has been a local tradition for years, with businesses rolling out the red carpet over the third weekend in May. Local residents get in on the action as well, as we celebrate the arrival of the outdoor season.
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Seward Halibut Tournament
Seward's halibut are a local surprise for those who typically think only of our Silver Salmon runs. Seward's Halibut Tournament highlights this fishery, attracting early season visitors and anglers from throughout Alaska.
Because the tournament takes place in June, anglers will find it is easier to reserve a seat on one of the many charter vessels fishing during this early season.
In addition, ramp space and trailer parking is plentiful for those anglers wanting to launch their own boats.
Daily tickets are $10, with cash prizes awarded at the end of the tournament for the heaviest fish and the second and third place entries.
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Fourth of July Celebration
On the Fourth of July, the population of Seward swells from around 2,500 to a reported 40,000. Main Street is completely blocked off to traffic and the streets fill with people. Most come to run in or watch the Mt. Marathon Race, while others come to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and take part in the festivities. Get your schedule here.
Kick off the Independence Day festivities with an exciting fireworks display on the waterfront at midnight (12:01 AM) on the 4th. Spend the daytime hours strolling historic downtown, where street vendors gather by the dozens to sell souvenirs, nick-knacks, noise makers and toys.
The food on the Fourth is great too! Everything from burritos and tacos to deep fried onions and traditional cotton candy can be found. Come to Seward for the Fourth and join the fun!
Mt. Marathon Race
According to folklore, the tradition of the Mt. Marathon Race began when two sourdoughs argued about the possibility of climbing and descending the mountain in less than an hour. "Impossible" one said. To settle the argument, and the resulting wager, a race was held, with the loser to furnish drinks for the crowd.
The foot race is a climb and descent on Mt. Marathon - a mile and a half up and a mile and a half down, complete with cliffs, scree fields, waterfalls, and a spectacular view. This annual event draws runners from around the world.
Seward Silver Salmon Derby
In late summer (mid July) the bay fills with 10's of thousands of Silver Salmon and the town of Seward prepares for the annual Seward Silver Salmon Derby held the second Saturday of August.
The annual Seward Silver Salmon Derby draws anglers from around the world who try their luck at catching silvers and winning prizes totaling over $100,000.
One of the oldest Salmon Derbies in the state, this event provides anglers an opportunity to catch fish that may be worth as much as $100,000.00 The derby includes daily prizes, mystery fish drawings, tagged fish worth up to $100,000 and prizes for the 50 heaviest silvers.
Fish can be caught from shore or from a boat. Charters and boat rentals are available, but be sure to make reservations early.
The Derby title was broken in 2003 with a new record set at 22.24 pounds. So, when August rolls around, go on out, grab your gear, and try your luck in this great family event. The Seward Silver Salmon Derby is a very busy time!
Last minute arrivals are always welcome but charters fill up quickly, so please make reservations early to guarantee your charter.
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Seward Holiday Train
Travel in style on the Alaska Railroad’s new dome cars to Seward for caroling, storytelling and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus (with gifts for the children) during the annual Seward Holiday Train excursion.
The annual Holiday Train excursion leaves Anchorage at 7:00 a.m., and provides stunning Kenai Peninsula winter scenery that can't be seen from the highway. Return to Anchorage at 9:30 p.m.
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Seward Polar Bear Plunge
The first Seward Polar Bear Jump was held in 1986. Individuals dressed in costumes jumped into Resurrection Bay. Sponsors were acquired by the jumpers in order to raise money for the Alaska Division of the American Cancer Society.
The event was so popular that buses were provided for a Anchorage-Seward-Anchorage trip on the day of the jump, with advance tickets selling out. Today, crowds continue to flock to Seward on the third weekend of January to join in the fun.
What started out as a one day event has now expanded into a statewide winter festival. The highlight of the festival is still the "Plunge" into Resurrection Bay occurring on the third Saturday of January.
The "Plunge" still benefits the American Cancer Society. Prior to the "Plunge” new and exciting family activities have been added to the Festival schedule.
Click for more details.