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Don’t Miss the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous

By: Ron Richards  

Alaska is known as the “Last Frontier State” and is famous for its pristine wilderness, abundant wild animals, beautiful scenery, and fun loving people. The most prominent display of fun and festivities during Alaska's winter is known as the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous. If you are under the impressing this unique event is “just another sled dog race,” think again! Although Alaskans love their sled dog races like the world famous Iditarod and thrilling Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race, this event is cherished as wild, wacky, and 100 percent Alaskan.

With a variety of events scheduled from mid February to early March, this “fur-rific” Rendezvous is a must see for all visitors to Alaska, regardless of age. The young and the young at heart will both appreciate the festive atmosphere, amazing activities, and of course the great people that call Alaska home!

The exact definition of the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous is quite difficult to explain. Part recreational opportunity, part serious event, and all fun, the Rendezvous is an annual winter tradition that dates back to the early 1900s. In these early days, trappers and miners braved the Alaskan seasons trying to earn a living off the natural resources available in the then territory. Once a year, these hard nosed creatures would leave their winter camps and head to Anchorage for some much needed socialization, carousing, and general fun. While with their newfound friends, the trappers and miners would compete in a variety of games and events, most of which focused on tasks necessary for survival in the Alaskan wilderness. Trappers were invited to compete in a judging of their kills, pelts, skinning methods, and tanning abilities. These latter competitions gave the event its official name of the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous in 1937.

The Anchorage Fur Rendezvous is an excellent way for visitors of all ages to learn more about the culture of Alaskans and the Native Americans whose tribes have dwelled in the state for thousands of years. Representatives of various Native American tribes showcase their skills and crafts in arenas like the Eskimo Blanket Toss and the Native Musicale. Dancers get the opportunity to kick up their heels at the annual masquerade ball, the international dance festival, bagpipe competition, and polka fest. These activities and events are open to individuals of all ages, just like the original Rendezvous in the early days of Alaska’s history.

By far, the stars of the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous are the four legged kind. Each year, the Rendezvous hosts a Dog Weight Pull and the World Championship Sled Dog Races. The sled dog races are sprint race covering several miles of trails but not as long as the cross country races such as the Iditarod. This is a great opportunity to see some unique Alaskan culture and enjoy the many activities Anchorage has planned. All in all a great time to visit Alaska in the winter.

About The Author A lifelong Alaskan, Ron Richards lives in the beautiful Matanuska Valley. Ron invites you to come and see Alaska. One excellent way to enjoy Alaska is by taking an affordable Alaska Cruise. Visit http://findanalaskacruise.com.

This article was posted on March 13, 2006  

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