Arctic Winter Games Winter Carnival offers fun in the circumpolar sun

PALMER — The Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games Host Society put on the Winter Carnival at the Alaska State Fairgrounds towards the end of the week-long series of multi-sport competitions featuring athletes from circumpolar communities around the world.

The Winter Carnival took place Friday, March 15 and Saturday, March 16. Alaska State Fair CEO Jeff Curtis said they were thrilled that the two-day event took place at the Fairgrounds.

“The Arctic Winter Games Winter Carnival offers fun and the fairgrounds itself is a community destination,” Curtis said. “We're happy and we should provide a venue for the Arctic Winter Games.”

The Winter Carnival featured numerous activities, amusement park rides, food trucks, and vendors from across the state. Curtis said it was a fun atmosphere that was enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

“Who doesn't love a good carnival?” Curtis said.

Mat-Su Arctic Winter Games Host Society Board President Amy Spargo said that holding the Winter Carnival at the Fairgrounds was a good representation of the Mat-Su community.

“The Fair is part of our culture and it was very fun to share that with them," Spargo said. “It turned out to be a really special time.”

Gorilla Fireworks put on large firework shows both evenings of the Winter Carnival. Spargo said that Gorilla Fireworks owner Robert Hall did a very impressive job.

“Robert Hall had an amazing firework show. It just blew everyone away,” Spargo said.

Chickaloon Village Traditional Council Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Angela Wade said that the Winter Carnival was a great event to be a part of.

“It's nice to come together in this way,” Wade said.

Chickaloon representatives were also present during other AWG events such as the opening ceremony along with other local Alaska Native groups such as the Knik Tribal Council and the Native Village of Eklutna. AWG officials also hosted an Indigenous Fashion Show and concert featuring Pamyua, an Inuit musical group.

Wade said that she was glad that Indigenous cultures were celebrated throughout the 2024 Arctic Winter Games.

“I love it,” Wade said.

Farm Loop Coffee owner Zoe Ash said that she was honored to have the opportunity to be a vendor at the Winter Carnival.

“It was super fun," Ash said. “It was an experience I won't ever forget. It was super special.”

Ash said that she enjoyed watching some of the AWG athletic events and learning about different cultures throughout the week.

“I think it was really great for the Valley for it to be here," Ash said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com