Off to Anchorage
Up early today to catch a short flight to Anchorage. I will be staying here until Monday so I'm excited to explore downtown Anchorage. And, I find that I'm in for a special Alaskan treat.
Alex standing next to a Fur Rondy sign in Anchorage, Alaska
Fur Rendezvous
I arrived in Anchorage at the beginning of the 76th annual Fur Rendezvous Festival - a traditional Alaskan experience.
Fur Rendezvous started in the mid-30's as an impromptu fur trade fair. Trappers and miners from the Anchorage area would come to town to sell their 'winter yield'. This event was a much welcome respite to the trappers after the long, cold winter and was also a significant social gathering. Nearly the entire town of 3,000 (approximate population 76 years ago) turned out for the sporting events, bonfire and torchlight parade and other festivities.
'Fur Rondy', as it's known today, has gained international acclaim. Thousands of visitors from around the world attend the 10 day festival. Although the events of today have modern amenities such as carnival rides, ice shows, dance events, and even the 'Running of the Reindeer', the festival is steeped in its traditional past of showcasing the Alaskan fur trade, the World Championship Sled Dog Races, and other Native Alaskan traditions.
World Championship Sled Dog Races
What a treat! Since my hotel was only a block away, I was lucky enough to see the start and end of the World Championship Sled Dog Races. Spectators lined both sides of the street anxiously awaiting each musher and dog team to pass. In order to avoid the confusion of a group start, each team was sent on a two-minute staggered start. Excitement was in the cold and windy air as we heard the announcer start each countdown... 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Go.... And they're off! It was a truly exciting event. Here is a bit of what I saw. Enjoy!
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When 'Fur Rondy' ends - the Iditarod begins
Fur Rondy ends with the beginning if the Iditarod - an extreme Sled Dog Race where mushers and their teams of dogs travel over 1,100 miles from Willow, AK (near Anchorage) to Nome, AK in 9-15 days. I plan to follow the race and you can to at http://www.iditarod.com/