Family events in Anchorage, AK

Little Explorers features a guided hike set to a toddler-friendly pace on or near the Rodak Trail. Registration is not required, and check-in happens in the ERNC main building. The program is designed for babies and children up to age 6 with an accompanying adult, and older siblings may take part as well. For the comfort of all participants, please leave pets at home.

Celebrating its fifth year, this 5K run and walk supports the Community Diaper Pantry by turning every mile into diapers and wipes for local families experiencing diaper need. Runners, walkers, and sideline supporters come together with businesses and volunteers for a family-friendly gathering that makes a meaningful impact. The route starts at Tudor Elementary and follows the scenic Campbell Creek Trail. A Kids Mile is offered at no cost for children 12 and under, followed by the full 5K. The purpose is clear... help move the community toward a future where every baby has the essentials.

After the Alaska State Fair wraps up, those colossal pumpkins, hefty cabbages, and other standout vegetables get a second life. Donated by the growers and the fair, the produce heads to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where it becomes a hearty vegetable buffet for the animals. Before feeding time, the vegetables will be arranged for viewing at Bison Hall so visitors can preview the spread. In the bears’ habitat, brown bears will dig into the bounty, turning prize produce into enrichment. The experience will also be shared on Facebook Live for anyone watching from afar.

Experience hands-on learning and youth leadership opportunities at the Anchorage 4-H Open House. Connect with area club leaders, get a preview of upcoming projects, and learn about ways for youth and volunteers to participate. Everyone in the community, including families, is welcome.

Enjoy a showcase of handmade quilts, see the featured raffle quilt with tickets available, and bid in a small quilt auction. Many of the small groups involved will have tables to explore. The event takes place at the Conoco Phillips Building.

Get an insider look at life with Cranbeary and Kova, the Alaska Zoo’s two female polar bears. A zookeeper leads a behind-the-scenes visit where guests can learn about their care, their bond, and how they compare to polar bears in the wild. The experience lasts 30 minutes and includes watching a training session that is part of the bears’ daily routine. Participation is limited to one booking group per date for up to four people, and advance online registration is required. Plan to arrive at the zoo entrance 15 minutes early, where a zookeeper will meet the group. Participants must be at least 9 years old, and an adult must be present. The fee is $500 for up to four attendees, with a small service fee added at checkout, and it includes zoo admission for the day. Pricing is not reduced for smaller groups. Purchases are nonrefundable, though rescheduling is available in cases of emergency or illness. Guests who are feeling unwell should arrange a new date for the safety of staff and animals. Cameras and phones are welcome for photos and video, and food or drinks should be left in your vehicle.

Weekly Sunday league play for Disney Lorcana takes place at Tier 1 and welcomes both newcomers and longtime players, including those who have been involved since the First Chapter. Participants receive Lorcana promo cards, and each game win earns $5 credit. Registration on the Ravensburger Play Hub is required for league participation.

This half hour features stories, songs, and engaging activities that build early literacy skills. It is designed for children from birth through kindergarten with their caregivers, combining fun and learning.

This free, weekly emerging reader program is sponsored by ConocoPhillips Alaska. Each 30 minute Storytime features animal storybooks read aloud to young readers, with seating available on chairs or floor pillows. The program is best suited for ages 4 to 7, and a parent, guardian, or relative must stay with children. All ages are welcome, and no registration is required. In the summer months, a Little Explorers tour for kids offers stops to see some of the cutest animals. Tickets are available online or at the gate, members receive a 50 percent discount, and the one hour tour ends at the Coffee Shop. After Storytime, visitors may choose to explore the zoo by paying regular admission or using a membership at the gate. The Gift Shop at the entrance and the Kape Espresso Tayo coffee shop inside the zoo provide convenient stops during a visit.

Each Thursday, Spenard Food Truck Carnival hosts a recurring roundup of local food trucks with a rotating roster. Weekly participants are announced on Tuesdays so attendees can see who will be serving. This listing covers the Thursday openings for this series, and the organizers extend their thanks to the community for its support.