Welcome to the Rendezvous

Every February, Anchorage comes alive for North America's largest winter festival. For over 90 years, Fur Rendezvous—"Rondy"—has celebrated Alaska's frontier spirit with sled dog races, snow sculptures, fireworks, and a whole lot of fun.

Join Anchorage's favorite winter tradition.

Traditions | History | Pins | Rondy Bear

Rondy Traditions

Learn the traditions that make Fur Rondy America's Premiere Winter Festival

Competitive Sports

Rondy was built on the idea that winter is the best time to compete.

From the legendary Rondy Basketball Tournament and Curling Bonspiel to the Frostbite Footrace 5K, we turn the cold into a Playground.

Frontier Heritage

Born from the fur trade, Rondy honors Anchorage's roots as a frontier trading post. Experience the history firsthand at the Official Fur Auction, heritage exhibits, and community storytelling events.

Dog Sled Races

Since 1946, the world’s best sprint mushers have staged a "dash for cash" through downtown Anchorage. It’s Alaska’s heritage in motion—and one of the most prestigious sprint races on the planet.

Snow Sculptures

Artists from across the globe descend on Anchorage to transform massive blocks of snow into intricate masterpieces.

Over several days, visitors can watch these giants take shape in the heart of downtown. It’s a stunning display of art, endurance, and winter wonder.

Rondy Royalty

Since the early days of the festival, Rondy has crowned a Royal Court—ambassadors who represent the spirit of the rendezvous. Today’s Royalty continues the tradition of community leadership and Alaskan hospitality, welcoming visitors with a smile and a sash. Learn more about Rondy Royalty

Crazy Fun

Rondy wouldn't be Rondy without the events that make you do a double-take.

From the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races to the Cornhole Tournament and Beard & Moustache Contest, we celebrate the quirky, high-energy side of Alaskan life.

Rondy Pins

Since 1939, Rondy pins have been the ultimate festival souvenir. Every year features a new artist-designed theme, sparking a massive collector culture where rare pins can be worth thousands. Grab yours and join the hunt!

Rondy Bear

Friendly, fuzzy, and always ready for a photo, Rondy Bear is our beloved mascot. You’ll spot him at parades and events all over downtown—he is the face of festival fun and Alaskan hospitality.

Rondy Fireworks

Rondy closes out the festival nights with fireworks over the snow. Simple, spectacular, and a tradition that's been lighting up Anchorage winters for decades.

The History of Fur Rondy

It started in 1935 with a winter rendezvous...

In the 1930s, fur trappers, miners, and traders would trek into Anchorage each winter for a "rendezvous"—a time to trade furs, swap stories, and blow off steam after months in the wilderness. It was rough, rowdy, and essential: a gathering that brought the community together in the heart of Alaska's long, dark winter.

In 1935, that spirit became official. Anchorage launched Fur Rendezvous, a festival designed to celebrate the city's frontier heritage and give locals a reason to get outside and have fun when the snow was deepest. Early events included sports competitions, parades, dances, and plenty of mischief.

The festival grew fast. In 1946, Rondy introduced the World Championship Sled Dog Races—three days of heart-pounding competition that became one of the most prestigious sprint races in the world. Sled dogs weren't just part of the show; they were part of Alaska's DNA, the original transportation and lifeline of the North.

Rondy Today

Today, Fur Rendezvous is one of the largest winter festivals in North America, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to Anchorage every February. The city hosts more than 50 events—from world-class athletic competitions to family-friendly fun, live music, art, food, and more.

It's a celebration of Alaska's past and a showcase of its vibrant present. Whether you're here for the sled dogs, the snow sculptures, the fireworks, or just the chance to experience winter the Alaskan way, Rondy welcomes you.

You're invited to the rendezvous!

Collectible Rondy Pins

Since 1939, Rondy has released a limited-edition pin each year, designed by local artists. What started as a simple souvenir has become a collector tradition—rare pins can fetch thousands of dollars.

Grab yours, trade with fellow festival-goers, and take a piece of Rondy home.

2026 Contest Winners

Rondy Pin - Richard

Booster Button - Rachel

Meet Rondy Bear

No Rondy is complete without Rondy Bear, the festival's beloved mascot.

Friendly, fuzzy, and always ready for a photo, You'll spot him at parades, kids' events, and all over downtown—look for the bear, snap a pic, and make a memory.

Follow Rondy Bear on Facebook.

Make Your First Rondy Tradition

Check the map. Plan your events. Grab your pin.

Want to be a part of making Rondy happen? Partner with us in next year's festival.

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