Things to do this weekend in and around Anchorage
Friendly fun in Anchorage for Friday, July 24, 2026 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, July 24, 2026
Kick off the weekend with an energy‑boosting outing thanks to Kids Bowl Free – Register your kids for a summer fun bowling pass today, where children can enjoy two free games and parents can relax while the kids stay active and entertained. Animal‑loving families can head down to Girdwood for the afternoon Brown Bear Encounter at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a memorable chance to safely see one of Alaska’s most iconic residents while learning about conservation. Budding musicians who prefer to stay cozy at home can log on for a personalized 1‑1 online/remote violin lesson & masterclass, perfect for kids who want to explore music or sharpen their skills before the school year ahead.
Saturday, July 25, 2026
Saturday is packed with opportunities to explore, learn, and play together as a family. Start the morning with a stroll through the charming Hometown Summer Market Open Days at Lilac Gardens, where you can browse local goodies, enjoy the garden setting, and let the kids soak up the summer atmosphere. Back in Alaska, wildlife enthusiasts can return to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for the Moose Encounter, a kid‑friendly introduction to Alaska’s tallest land mammal that’s sure to spark curiosity and great photos. For screen‑time that actually supports school skills, students can log on to the interactive One Note‑Taking Workshop, where they’ll learn fun, practical strategies to get organized for upcoming classes. In the evening, young strategists and their grown‑ups can unwind at home with the online Chess A2Z July Webinar with NM Austin Liu: Opening Principles, a friendly way to boost problem‑solving skills without memorizing long lines of moves.
Sunday, July 26, 2026
Wrap up the weekend with a relaxed Sunday that still offers plenty of adventure and creativity for kids and parents alike. Families who haven’t yet taken advantage of the bowling fun can head back to Kids Bowl Free – summer bowling pass to squeeze in more laughter and friendly competition before the week begins. Over at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, bear fans have another chance to get up close to a charismatic local resident at Kobuk the Black Bear Encounter, where kids learn what makes black bears unique as they watch Kobuk’s antics under expert guidance. Those who prefer quieter, at‑home enrichment can continue their musical journey with another online violin lesson and masterclass session, rounding out the weekend with creativity and focus that carries into the week ahead.