The Alaska State Fair has earned national recognition, ranking seventh in the country in USA Today’s annual Top 10 State Fairs poll. An expert panel first nominated their top picks from across the US, then readers cast votes to decide which events deserved the coveted blue ribbons.
Rounding out the top 10 were Ohio (10), Washington (9), Florida (8), Alaska (7), Indiana (6), South Carolina (5), Texas (4), Wisconsin (3), Iowa (2), and Minnesota (1).
While the Alaska State Fair may not be the oldest in the nation, it is certainly one of the most distinctive. Since its founding in 1936, the fair has become known for its record-setting giant vegetables, colorful flower gardens, and its spectacular setting at the foot of the Chugach Mountains in Palmer. Visitors get an authentic taste of Alaska culture through exhibits, performances, and competitions.
Each summer, fairgoers can enjoy amusement rides, horse shows, carnival games, concerts, and hundreds of vendors offering everything from food to crafts. The event also showcases a wide range of competitive exhibits, highlighting the creativity, skill, and agricultural bounty of the state.
The recognition places Alaska’s fair in the national spotlight, celebrating not only its unique character but also its growing reputation as a must-see destination for locals and travelers alike. The 2025 Alaska State Fair ends Sept. 2.