Some towns in Alaska begin celebrating Christmas after the last weekend in November all the way through January 6, the beginning of Epiphany. Among the Christmas carols Alaskans sing is a special one that belongs only to Alaska. "Gristuusaaq suu'uq," or "Christ Is Born," is sung in Aleut, the native Alaskan language, every year. Traditionally, everyone joins in on the last chorus of "Mnogaya leta," or "God grant you many years." In addition to traditional baked Christmas goodies, carolers may also get piruk, or fish pie, and smoked salmon.
Christmas spirit lives throughout the year in North Pole, Alaska. However, at Christmas time, the spirit grows even brighter with the many celebrations people can enjoy there. The Kid's Park features an ice maze as well as large ice slides. Smaller versions are available for younger children. "Christmas in Ice" is an event sponsored by businesses and individuals in the North Pole community. The event begins on the last weekend of November with an ice carving competition and craft fair. Other events, such as a large fireworks display, are scheduled until the beginning of January when the event closes for the year.
Eagle River, located just outside of Anchorage, Alaska, offers a Winter Wonderland Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony. Visitors attending the tree lighting can enjoy carols sung by local choirs. Santa and a team of eight real reindeer drop in on the event, accompanied by torchlight, to visit all the kids. Free horse-drawn sleigh rides are offered for everyone. This is also a charity event, and they accept donations of canned goods or unwrapped toys.
Northwest of Anchorage is the town of Palmer, Alaska, where they host a series of fun events during December and the Christmas season. Float winners are selected yearly during the Christmas Parade, and recently the town has added Smoosh races. Smoosh racing is where teams of four attach 8-ft two by four inch boards to their feet and complete a fifty yard race. For those who prefer to participate in more solo events, there is a snowshoe obstacle course challenge. Snowshoes are provided if you do not own any. Inside, there are craft festivals and cookie contests.
