Get ready for "Heyi Days" in Anchorage

Checking out the northern lights dancing over Turnagain Arm

“Heyi”, meaning “winter” in Dena’ina Athabascan. The Heyi Days celebration honors the area’s First People and invites everyone to experience Anchorage at its winter best.

Official Heyi Days festivities begin the Saturday, Nov. 28 with the Holiday Tree Lighting, a sparkling kickoff that glows well into the evening. There are some early events starting on Nov. 27.

Events include “bright events” like the Holiday Tree Lighting, Zoo Lights, the lit-up Alaska Botanical Garden, holiday shopping, sporting events, outdoor activities…even a “Solstice Tree Tour” at Kincaid Park.

Getting the fire ready to roast marshmallows.

Here are some Heyi Days events and activities starting Nov. 27:

The Nutcracker with Eugene Ballet Nov. 27
Gingerbread Village Hotel Captain Cook lobby, starting Nov. 27
UAA Women’s Basketball starting Nov. 21
Downtown Anchorage Holiday Market 49th State Brewing (NOV 27)
Crafted in Alaska: Anchorage Museum Holiday Market NOV 27-28
Alaska’s Wild Icons: Alaska Zoo Winter Tour Mondays & Fridays
Zoo Lights at the Alaska Zoo, starting NOV 27
Holiday Tree Lighting NOV 28 Downtown (524 W 4th Ave ) 6-8 PM
Alaska Native Heritage Center Holiday Bazaar DEC 4-6
UAA Hockey starts DEC 4 Avis Sports Complex
ULLR Fest at Alyeska Resort DEC 5 (God of Snow)

Mt. Susitna “Sleeping Lady” and a full moon on the rise.

Learn more about Heyi Days and click through for more events and activities.