Head back in time to the popular, booming days of the Gold Rush in Juneau during Juneau Gold Rush Days. The event takes place annually in mid-June. In 2024, the event will be June 22-23. The hours for Saturday are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You won’t want to miss the incredible fun that awaits at this thrilling event. Here’s a look at what to expect. Or if you can’t make it to Juneau during the event weekend, consider reviewing these Gold Panning tours in Juneau where you can find your own gold flecks during the tourist season of May through September.
Juneau Gold Rush Days History
Juneau Gold Rush Days is a nonprofit that was founded in the early 90s. The nonprofit’s mission is to educate people about mining and logging, which are the two industries that helped shape Juneau into the incredible community and thriving city that it is today.
Its main education format is the two-day event that celebrates Alaska’s resources, both as they were at the city’s founding and as they are today.
But this isn’t your stuffy classroom education setting. Instead, you can gear up for an action-packed weekend of competition and fun. The event includes the following entertainment options.
- Fair foods
- Mining and logging events
- Arts and crafts booths
- Children’s activities
Spend some time learning about logging and mining by watching or competing in the events. While some events require experience, others do not and only cost $15 for your first event and $5 for subsequent entries. You can try your hand at these unique events for the first time as part of the competition. It’s a rare place to enjoy taking part in logging and mining tasks.
The City and Borough of Juneau supports the nonprofit and the event, helping to make it free and open to the public. Another crucial element of the event is the vendors and sponsors who help support and organize a fun weekend of activities for guests of all ages.
What is the Juneau Gold Rush Days Event?
The Juneau Gold Rush Days event invites children, teens and adults to compete in gold rush activities. Here are some of the activities that you can participate in or spectate at.
- Jackleg drilling
- Spike driving
- Hand mucking
- Axe throwing
- Speed climbing
- Hand bucking
- Log rolling
For specific times and events, be sure to review the event schedule to make your plans for competition or spectating.
If you plan to register, you must do so in advance. And the earlier you register to compete, the more likely you’ll be to snag one of the coveted spots. Because there’s so much happening in just two days, some competitions have a limited number of contestants. When that happens, the event will take only the earliest registrations.
Those competing as part of a team must complete the registration form for each individual team member. Failing to have each person register could mean your team is disqualified from the event.
When registering, be aware that some events require experience. This is for your protection and safety as these events require unique skills. The saw bucking requires that you bring your own saw.
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Is Juneau Gold Rush Days a Family-Friendly Event?
Yes, bring the whole family to Juneau Gold Rush Days. Everyone will enjoy watching the competitions. Plus, there are fun activities for the children, including a giant bouncy house, arts and crafts, and other activities.
Stroll through the vendor booths to shop for unique gifts or mementos to remind you of your travels to Juneau. Snack on delicious treats and meals from the food trucks and food carts.
The 2024 event will be the 32nd annual event from a team that takes pride in showcasing Juneau’s heritage to all ages. So whether your child participates or is here to try their hand at gold panning or take part in the kid’s carnival, there’s truly something for everyone at the event.
Depending on what vendors sign up to join in the fun, children might get a chance to sit in big trucks or machinery. In 2023, the bounce houses were generously sponsored, which meant there was no entry fee.
One of the best parts of the event for families is that there is no cost to attend. While some of the on-site activities might have a fee associated, admittance is free of charge. Come for the entertainment and stay for the fun as you witness some of the most unique sporting events around.
Children’s events start at age 6 and are a great way to introduce youths involved in the local trades. And the best part for parents is that there is no cost for children to participate in the events. Winners can stick around for the award ceremony to celebrate their victory and earn recognition.
The Juneau Gold Rush Days Beer Garden
As you spectate, be sure to stop by the beer garden for some local brews. You’ll get a chance to experience Juneau’s own brewing companies and sample what makes these beers unique and interesting.
Past Beer Garden sponsors have included Alaskan Brewing Co. and Forbidden Peak Brewery. While you can experience these brews at their local breweries, you won’t have quite the entertainment that you will while enjoying it at the Beer Garden.
About Savikko Park Where the Event Takes Place
You might also hear Savikko Park called Sandy Beach thanks to its stunning beach-like setting. It is situated at the end of Douglas Highway on Third Street. While you’re at the event, take some time to enjoy the stunning beach as you stroll along the waterside or perhaps watch for wildlife.
It’s an ideal event setting because the park features covered shelters and a pavilion as well as a playground for the little ones to run around and enjoy when they get tired of watching the competition. It features equipment ideal for all ages, including a toddler zone that offers just the right amount of excitement for young guests.
You’ll also find ample free parking to make the event affordable and enjoyable for the whole family. Spend some time hiking in the morning before visiting the event. The park has many excellent trails, including the Treadwell Mine Historic Trail.
Make sand castles or just sit and watch the water on the stunning beach. And rest assured, there are plenty of public restrooms to accommodate eventgoers.
Visiting the City for Juneau Gold Rush Days
If you’re planning a trip to Juneau to experience this unique festival and competition, be sure to book your travel plans early. Juneau is well known for its outstanding events and festivals. People come from all over to experience these unique events.
Book your stay at Frontier Suites now. You’ll have fast access to and from the airport as the hotel is less than a mile away. Suites feature a full kitchen so you can rest and relax in a setting that feels just like home.
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