When is Salmon Fest in Alaska? A Guide to this Beloved Music Festival

Salmon Fest is an iconic music festival held annually in early August on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. Often referred to as “Alaska’s biggest little festival,” Salmon Fest brings together thousands of attendees each year to celebrate Alaskan culture and music while raising awareness and funds for local organizations. But when exactly is Salmon Fest each year, and what can you expect from this beloved event?

Overview of Salmon Fest

Salmon Fest occurs over three days typically the first weekend of August. The festival kicks off on Friday afternoon and runs through Sunday evening. The venue is the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds in the small fishing village of Ninilchik, about 150 miles southwest of Anchorage.

Salmon Fest has been held annually since 2011 and has steadily grown in size and acclaim. The festival features a lineup of over 60 musical acts performing on four stages. Genres span folk, rock, bluegrass, funk, electronic, and more. In addition to music, Salmon Fest offers food vendors highlighting Alaskan cuisine, local craft brews, arts & crafts booths, science talks, and activities for kids.

A family-friendly vibe permeates Salmon Fest, with free admission for young children and supervised activities just for kids. Dogs are not permitted, and no outside alcohol can be brought in. Camping is available on-site.

Dates for Upcoming Salmon Fests

The 2023 Salmon Fest will take place August 4-6.

For 2024, the festival is scheduled for August 2-4.

And the recently announced dates for Salmon Fest 2025 are August 1-3.

What to Expect at Salmon Fest

Beyond the music, several elements help make Salmon Fest a one-of-a-kind experience.

The setting of Ninilchik village and the Kenai Peninsula provides a scenic backdrop. You’re surrounded by the rugged beauty of Alaska. Located on scenic Cook Inlet with views of volcanoes across the water, Ninilchik exudes rustic old Alaska charm.

As the name implies salmon is celebrated here. A highlight is the Smoked Salmon Competition, where Alaska’s top smokehouses compete for bragging rights. You’ll find salmon dishes everywhere from the food vendors.

The Alaska cultural vibe also shines through. Many locals from communities across Alaska make the trek. There’s a neighborly feel with Alaska Native craftspeople, artists, and organizations represented.

The festival raises funds and awareness for sustainability issues impacting Alaska’s natural resources. Protecting wild salmon habitats is a central focus. Informational displays educate attendees on topics like renewable energy in Alaska.

How to Get Tickets

Salmon Fest tickets go on sale each year in the spring once the musical lineup is announced. The festival typically sells out, so getting tickets early is recommended.

The best way to purchase tickets is through Eventbrite. Currently, only 2025 tickets are available, starting around $120 for a 3-day pass.

Camping passes also sell out fast once they become available through Eventbrite closer to the festival date. Camping allows you to stay on-site and enjoy the festivities into the night.

Salmon Fest: A Bucket List Festival in Alaska

For music lovers, Alaska enthusiasts, and appreciators of the great outdoors, Salmon Fest promises an incredible experience. The setting, people, music, and culture come together to create a vibe like nowhere else. From the family stage to the late-night electronic sets, Salmon Fest has something for everyone. Just be sure to get your tickets early, and we’ll see you in Ninilchik the first weekend of August!