As September draws to a close, Anchorage is buzzing with a flurry of events and activities, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to shake off the recent spell of cloudy, chilly weather and make the most of the fall season. Despite the lingering gloom that’s characterized much of the month, the coming days promise not only a packed social calendar but also a welcome shift in the weather, according to meteorologists.
Anchorage’s week kicks off with a unique blend of news, trivia, and community spirit. On Thursday, September 18, 2025, locals are invited to Onsite Brewing in Midtown Anchorage for the second News and Brews trivia night. The event, hosted by Alaska Public Media, starts at 5:30 p.m. with a casual meet-and-greet with the news team, followed by a trivia contest at 6 p.m. that will test participants’ knowledge of local news, Alaska history, and quirky state facts. The event is free and open to everyone—though attendees will need to purchase their own drinks. The Yeti Dogs food truck will also be on hand for those feeling peckish, and with limited parking available, carpooling is encouraged.
For those with an artistic or environmental bent, Thursday also marks the Third Thursday at the Anchorage Museum, where admission is just $5. The museum is currently featuring the “Our World, Our Responsibility” exhibit, part of the Teen Climate Communicators program, which encourages young people to express their thoughts on climate change through art. The exhibit runs through September 30, giving visitors a few more weeks to catch this thoughtful display.
Friday, September 19, brings music lovers together for the End of Summer Free Concert at Williwaw, running from 5 to 10:30 p.m. The event, which is open to all ages (minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian), features performances by H3, Nervis Rex, and I Like Robots. It’s a chance for the community to dance, celebrate, and bid farewell to summer with a bang.
Saturday, September 20, is shaping up to be one of the busiest days of the month, with a range of activities to suit every taste and age group. Early risers can participate in the annual Alaska Heart Run and Walk at the Alaska Airlines Center. The opening ceremonies begin at 9 a.m., with a 5K timed run at 9:30 a.m., and untimed 5K and 3K walks starting at 10 a.m. Registration is available online or at the event from 7 a.m., with fees ranging from $35 to $45 depending on age and race selection. Organizers advise dressing for rain, as the forecast still calls for some wet weather.
Fashion aficionados won’t want to miss the TREND Alaska Fashion Show at the Performing Arts Center, where over 20 local designers will showcase their creations. The reception starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the event is limited to guests aged 21 and older. Tickets start at $100, promising an evening of style and entertainment.
Shoppers and craft enthusiasts have plenty of options this weekend as fall markets pop up across the city. Double Shovel Cider Co. hosts its Fall Market from noon to 6 p.m. at 502 W. 58th Ave., offering a selection of cold and hot ciders to sip while browsing goods from local makers and artisans. Meanwhile, the Green Connection’s Fall Equinox Market runs from noon to 5 p.m. on 15th Avenue, featuring handmade art, pottery, and knits. The Alaskan Crafted Fall Market continues every Saturday inside Midtown Mall from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Alaska Native artwork, baked goods, candles, and more on display. Out in the valley, Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Harvest Festival on both September 20 and September 27, from noon to 6 p.m. The family-friendly event boasts a pumpkin patch, hayrides, balloon art, live entertainment, and farm animals.
For those seeking a taste of Bavaria, Girdwood Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest is a must. Festivities kick off at 11 a.m. with the release of FestBeär beer and continue with food trucks, live music, and, of course, the much-anticipated Dachshund Parade. Pups and their owners gather at Town Square at noon, parade to the brewery at 2 p.m., and compete in a race at 3:30 p.m. The evening wraps up with live music from Hot Dish at 6 p.m. and a stein holding contest at 7 p.m. As always, parking is tight, so organizers recommend carpooling.
Garlic lovers can head to the Anchorage Botanical Garden for Garlic Day: Tasting & Sales Kickoff, happening Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Attendees can sample nearly a dozen varieties of garlic on fresh sourdough bread, shop for bulbs to plant at home, and browse baked goods from local bakeries.
On Sunday, September 21, parents and caregivers have the chance to declutter and help others at the Infant Clothing & Gear Swap at The Workshop, 1120 Huffman Rd., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gently used infant clothes (preemie to 2T), baby carriers, play pens, and other gear can be swapped, making it a win-win for families looking to recycle and save.
Meanwhile, the weather is finally cooperating after a stretch of rain and chilly temperatures. According to meteorologist Ava Marie, the area of low pressure that brought rain to Maryland and much of the East Coast—including Frederick, Harford, and Baltimore counties—on Wednesday, September 17, is moving offshore. Rain showers and drizzle are expected to taper off by the evening, with only a few patches of drizzle lingering overnight. Temperatures, which have been stuck in the 60s, are forecasted to climb into the low 80s on Thursday, September 18, giving Anchorage residents a much-needed taste of warmth and sunshine.
“Rain showers and drizzle will taper tonight, then Thursday will turn out warmer and drier. Friday will be even sunnier and warmer,” said Ava Marie, as reported by local news outlets. Friday, September 19, is expected to be even more pleasant, with highs reaching 87 degrees Fahrenheit. Saturday will be cooler but still sunny, with a possible front bringing increased cloud cover on Sunday. Looking ahead, there’s a slight chance of showers returning on Tuesday and Wednesday of the following week, but for now, the forecast is decidedly brighter.
With the weather on the upswing and a packed calendar of community events, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Anchorage this weekend. Whether you’re a trivia buff, a music lover, a fashionista, or simply looking for family fun, there’s something for everyone. And with a little luck, the sun might just make an appearance, making this a September to remember.
