Free events in Fairbanks, AK

Part of a summer series of free public talks presented by Explore Fairbanks and the UAF Geophysical Institute, this event takes place in the Morris Thompson Center auditorium and features Rick Thoman exploring why Alaska can still experience cold winters even as the climate warms. The format includes a 30 minute presentation followed by extended time for audience questions.

At North Star Ballet - Fairbanks, the annual Fall Open House brings together a free class day, the Sue Perry Jordan Celebration ballet class, and a workshop focused on creating secure ballet buns. Visitors can try classes at no cost, register for the Fall Semester, get questions answered, browse the Borrow Bureau for dancewear, learn about programs and events, and connect with staff, students, families, and supporters. Light refreshments will be provided by Little Owl Cafe. The bun workshop welcomes all ages for a $10 fee that includes all supplies. Free trial classes are offered across several levels, including Creative Dance for ages 6 to 7, Beginning Contemporary for ages 10 and up, Beginning Teen and Adult Ballet for ages 13 and up, Creative Dance for ages 4 to 5, and Beginning Children’s Ballet for ages 8 to 12. The Sue Perry Jordan Celebration ballet class is for intermediate and advanced dancers, including NSB C1 and up and adults, with a suggested $25 donation supporting the Miss Sue Scholarship. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, by calling 907-451-8800 or emailing elizabeth@northstarballet.org. Participants taking a trial class may wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement or follow the North Star Ballet dress code. Boys wear a white T-shirt tucked in with black leggings and black ballet shoes with black socks. Girls wear a plain black short-sleeved leotard without a skirt or decoration, pink or skin-toned footed tights, and pink or skin-toned ballet shoes. Hair should be secured away from the face in a bun, ponytail, braids, or a similar style, and jewelry should not be worn. A limited selection of attire is available through the Borrow Bureau, which operates as a small free library of dance clothes.

Gazebo Nights is a no-cost outdoor concert series at Pioneer Park, presented by the Fairbanks Arts Association. This season highlights The Alaska Wompus Cats with seven evenings of live music at the Pioneer Park Gazebo. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Southside Community Farmers Market gathers local growers, bakers, and food producers for a food-centered marketplace that celebrates what the community makes and grows. Browse a wide range of seasonal offerings, including produce, herbs and mushrooms, breads and baked treats, fish and chicken, eggs, pasta, honey, jams and jellies, pickled goods, salsa, fresh flowers, and herbal products. Each week, Chef Liann from Bread Line serves a complimentary community meal prepared with local ingredients, available while supplies last and open to everyone. The market accepts SNAP, and some vendors also take WIC and Senior Farmers Market Benefits. Pay What You Can discounts of up to 50 percent on fresh foods are available for anyone who needs them, with details and coupons at the Market Info table. This event is held rain or shine.

Explore the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks on a free public tour that offers an inside look at Arctic research. Meet UAF graduate students, ask questions about satellites, earthquakes, nuclear monitoring, rocket launches, and how data from the institute’s iconic blue antenna is used. The guided route typically includes the Alaska Earthquake Center, the Wilson Alaska Technical Center, the Alaska Satellite Facility, and a stop at the outdoor model rocket to learn about Poker Flat Research Range. No advance registration is required. For large groups, call 907-474-5229 ahead of time. The tour is best suited for ages 12 and older, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Campus parking requires a UAF pass, which can be purchased at a kiosk or online.

Fairbanks Children's Museum teams up with Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks & Rec for a free Park Play Day at Nussbaumer Park. Attendees can look forward to interactive activities, lively games, and creative projects that spark imagination and encourage movement and exploration. You might even discover a park you have not visited before. Pack a picnic and invite a friend to enjoy outdoor fun together. In case of poor weather, check the Fairbanks Children's Museum Facebook page for updates.