Southeast Alaska State Fair 2026

July 23–26, 2026 | Haines, Alaska

For four unforgettable days each summer, the Southeast Alaska State Fair brings together the best of Southeast Alaska's music, creativity, agriculture, traditions, and community spirit.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Chilkat Mountains, the Fair is one of Alaska's most beloved summer celebrations. From live music and family activities to community competitions, local exhibits, delicious food, and unique Alaskan traditions, there's something for every age and interest.

Whether you're making the trip from the Yukon, arriving by ferry, or joining us from elsewhere in Alaska, we invite you to experience one of the biggest weekends of the summer in Haines.

2026 Fair Highlights

This year's Fair will feature a packed schedule of entertainment, competitions, exhibits, and special events throughout the weekend.

Fair Hours

Thursday, July 23 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Friday, July 24 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday, July 25 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Sunday, July 26 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

🎡 Rides are half-price on Sunday from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Regional Exhibits & Community Showcases

Explore the creativity and talents of Southeast Alaska through exhibits featuring:

• Agriculture
• Flowers and Vegetables
• Baking and Preserved Foods
• Photography
• Fine Arts
• Crafts
• Fiber Arts
• Woodworking
• And much more

From prize-winning vegetables and homemade jams to handcrafted artwork and photography, the exhibit halls showcase the incredible talent found throughout our region.

Live Entertainment

The 2026 Southeast Alaska State Fair will feature performances from:

• Ryan Charles
• Dude Mountain
• The Bards of Mendenhall
• The Rain Dogs

Nationally recognized Wyoming artist Ryan Charles brings his unique blend of country, western, and hip-hop influences to the Fair stage, making this one of the most anticipated performances of the summer.

Thursday evening will also feature a Contra Dance with live music by Full Circle.

Additional entertainment schedules and performance times will be announced as they become available.

Getting to the Fair? We've Got Wheels!

No car? No problem!

Rolling into town by ferry and wondering how to get to the action? Complimentary shuttle service is available from the Haines Ferry Terminal to town, Tlingit Park, and the Port Chilkoot area throughout Fair weekend.

Ferry Shuttle Schedule

Thursday, July 23

• Ferry Terminal to Town: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM & 3:30 PM–5:30 PM

Friday, July 24

• Ferry Terminal to Town: 10:30 AM–2:00 PM & 3:30 PM–5:30 PM

Saturday, July 25

• Ferry Terminal to Town: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM & 3:30 PM–5:30 PM

Sunday, July 26

• Town to Ferry Terminal: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00PM-4:00PM

🅿️ Park It. 🎡 Ride In.

Heading to the Fair but don't want to hassle with parking at the grounds?

Hop aboard the free Park & Ride Shuttle Service and ride between the Haines School parking lot to Fairground entry gate.

Saturday, July 25

• Shuttle Service: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM

It's easy, it's free, and it helps keep the Fair moving!

Accommodations During Fair Weekend

Lodging in Haines can fill quickly during the Southeast Alaska State Fair. We encourage visitors to book accommodations early. Explore hotels, vacation rentals, RV parks, and other lodging options below.

→ View Haines Accommodations

Temporary Tent Camping

During the Southeast Alaska State Fair, temporary first-come, first-served tent camping is available at Tlingit Park and along the beach at Port Chilkoot for the approved event dates listed below.

Guests are welcome to prepay online ahead of time or simply pay upon arrival using the onsite QR code or by stopping by the Haines Visitor Center during office hours.

Payment is on the honor system and helps support restroom maintenance, garbage disposal, and other services that keep these temporary camping areas clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.

Please note: These locations are for tent camping only and are available during the approved special event dates of Wednesday, July 22 at 5:00 PM through Monday, July 27 at 5:00 PM.

Please help us keep our parks and beaches clean and welcoming for everyone during Fair weekend.

Plan Your Visit

The Southeast Alaska State Fair is more than an event—it's a celebration of the people, traditions, and creativity that make Southeast Alaska unique.

Come for the music. Stay for the community. Discover why generations of families continue to make the Fair a summer tradition.

For tickets, schedules, exhibit information, and updates, visit:

🔗 Get all the details and join the fun » Southeast Alaska State Fair  

About the Fair

The Southeast Alaska State Fair has deep roots in the Chilkat Valley. The very first fair—originally called the Chilkat Valley Fair—was held on August 29–30, 1969, at the American Legion. Organized by the Chilkat Valley Homemaker’s Club, it drew about 600 attendees and showcased 300 exhibits across 12 departments. It offered locals a chance to share their winter work, talents, and traditions.

As the fair quickly outgrew its original venue, the Fair Board acquired 21 acres off the Haines Highway in 1972, establishing the official Southeast Alaska State Fairgrounds. With just 60 days to prepare, volunteers built a show barn and horse area—laying the foundation for what would become a beloved regional celebration.

Through the 1970s and '80s, the Fair continued to grow. A horse arena and stalls were added in 1973, a carousel arrived in 1974, the Main Stage went up in 1975, and a small train made its debut in 1976. By 1981, the Fair welcomed more than 10,000 visitors each summer.

Entertainment became a central focus in the 1980s, with increased efforts to bring musicians and performers to Haines. In 1989, the American Bald Eagle Music Festival launched, featuring acts like Commander Cody, David Bromberg, Vassar Clements, and Dave Mallott. The music festival became part of the Fair in 2005, and a diverse, energetic music lineup remains a hallmark of the event today.

Now, the Southeast Alaska State Fair includes not only the four-day summer celebration but also the Great Alaskan Craft Beer Festival and the Haines Fishermen’s Free Salmon BBQ. The historic Dalton City—built as a movie set for White Fang—houses small local businesses on the fairgrounds. Harriett Hall, named after former Executive Director Harriett Jurguleit, serves as a year-round hub for community events across Southeast Alaska.

From disc golf and hockey to gardening, little league, and live music, the Fairgrounds are more than just a venue—they’re a gathering place.

The Southeast Alaska State Fair is where community happens.