Hundreds enjoy fun, food, and farming activities at annual Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Summer Festival

With Pioneer Peak looming large in the background and the clouds parting enough to let the sun shine through, hundreds came out to Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Summer Festival.

Formerly known as the Strawberry Festival, guests were able to enjoy all things summer and everything that makes this part of Alaska so beautiful.

Of course, the festivities were kicked off by the annual ‘ButteAthlon’ triathlon. Starting at Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm, the event was purely Alaskan as it included a Run/Climb/Bike. There was also a ‘Run the Butte!’ event for those who wanted to run and climb but didn’t want to bike.

The Farm Fun Run 5K was an option for people who weren’t inclined to climb, but rather run, walk, or stroll through the farm. A portion of the proceeds went to help fund educational scholarships for Mat-Su Valley graduating high school seniors.

Throughout the day, kids were able to play mini golf, get lost in the maze, take their chances with different the dunk tank, or settle in for a cow train ride. There was a petting zoo for kids to feed cows, rabbits and goats. Meanwhile others decked in Xtra Tuffs were able to pick from fields of kale, broccoli, rhubarb, and other assorted vegetables.

There were booths offering burgers and gourmet ice cream, raw honey, and handmade crafts. For some, it was a chance to sit and catch up with friends, and for others, it was a beautiful day to take families out in a much-welcomed break from the rain that has soaked much of the Mat-Su Borough this month.

Also on hand was a local Children’s author, Elisa Atlin-Fleener, who recently published her first children’s book, ‘Pigsquealia and the Biggest Cabbage.’

“It’s a sweet little story that takes place here in Palmer, about a pig who’s a little different and gets bullied, and ultimately learns to have the courage to be himself,” said Fleener, who was signing copies of her books for families.

As the day ended and clouds started to encroach on the mountains, kids with stuffed bellies and no energy could still be heard asking to come back tomorrow, a sure sign of another great festival.