There’s nothing quite like the Winter Solstice Festival! Every December, Fairbanksans bundle up and head downtown for a magical celebration of lights, community, and the longest night of the year. The festival highlights what’s best about our community and features festive storefronts, twinkling light displays, and a full lineup of holiday fun for all ages.
From reindeer photos and free hot chocolate, to our beloved dog-mushing track and sparkling Winter Lights Walk. From a seasonal ice rink to solstice fireworks, the festival brings together the very best of Fairbanks in winter. Local vendors, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities fill downtown as we celebrate the return of the light together!
This is an unforgettable (and free!) community tradition that captures the warmth, creativity, and resilience of the Golden Heart City — right in the heart of Fairbanks. We can’t wait to see you downtown!
Thanks to sponsors Alyeska Pipeline Service Company whose senior leadership will be in Golden Heart Plaza to invoke the fireworks magic at 8PM. Other special activities within the Festival are thanks to Rylieh Bodyfelt Realtor, Spirit of Alaska Credit Union, Usibelli Coal Mine, Explore Fairbanks and TOTE Maritime. Other important sponsors, which is all of you, include Big Ray’s, Kinross Fort Knox, Conoco Phillips, FEDC, Tech Wise Systems, North Haven Comunities, Borealis Basecamp, Laborers Local 942, Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, AER, Black Gold Transport, Denali Industrial Supply, WKS, Robinson & Ward PC and Immaculate Conception Church.