Anchorage has reached that glorious point in September when the trees are showing off and the temperature is gently suggesting we locate our other jacket.
I love these autumn colors. Even a regular trip across town feels like it deserves a scenic detour. Which fits my life lately… because I’ve been saying yes to more sidequests.
It’s been a busy few weeks, but those extra adventures have introduced me to some wonderful people who believe in helping Mr. Anchorage grow. There are collaborations taking shape that I’m excited to see unfold this winter. Nothing to announce just yet, but I’m grateful for the conversations, the encouragement and the people willing to build something together.
For now, let’s work on your next sidequest. This weekend offers comedy, a masquerade, musical history, a classic-film gathering and dachshunds with somewhere very important to be.
Frambwahaha: A Good Laugh, a Shorter Name After One Beer
Where: Turnagain Brewing, 7920 King Street, Anchorage.
When: Friday, September 18, 7–9 p.m.
Saying “Frambwahaha” correctly is optional. Showing up ready to laugh is the assignment.
Rubber Ptarmigan brings local stand-up to Turnagain’s taproom, with a lineup including Matt Burgoon, Andrea Feniger, Mika Jordin, Ben Peterson and Ida Taylor. Admission is by donation, with $10 suggested.
Bring the friend who’s had a long week. A room full of people laughing together sounds like a pretty reasonable way to clock out.
More info: Comedy lineup and event details · Brewery location
Unmask the Night: Dress Up for Something Good
Where: The Nave, 3502 Spenard Road, Anchorage.
When: Saturday, September 19, 5:30–8 p.m.; doors open at 5:30.
Your fancy clothes have spent enough time wondering whether you still live here.
This masquerade fundraiser supports the Alaska Children’s Museum’s effort to open its first physical home. A place for children and families to explore, play and learn together. The evening includes performances by The Aerial View, mask-making, an art exhibit, appetizers from Sal’s Catering & Grill, and dancing with DJ Corinithians.
Tickets are $95. It’s a chance to enjoy a dressed-up Spenard evening while helping create something lasting for local families. A little mystery, a little dancing, a very clear purpose.
More info: Program, tickets and fundraiser details
1776: The Founding Fathers Have Entered the Group Chat
Where: Anchorage Community Theatre, 1133 E. 70th Avenue, Anchorage.
When: This weekend’s performances:
Friday, September 18, 7 p.m. — SOLD OUT
Saturday, September 19, 7 p.m. — ticket selection available when checked
Sunday, September 20, 3 p.m. — SOLD OUT
If you’ve ever watched a committee struggle to agree on anything, imagine adding the birth of a nation and musical numbers.
Peter Stone and Sherman Edwards’ 1776 brings the personalities behind American independence onto the stage, complete with arguments, uncertainty and the difficult business of finding common ground. Catch a local cast tackling a big piece of history in ACT’s intimate space.
Saturday is your best ticketed option this weekend. Adults are $25, with discounted categories available. For sold-out performances, ACT allows people to join an in-person waitlist starting one hour before showtime; unclaimed seats are not guaranteed.
Can’t make this weekend? More performances continue through October 11.
Girdwood Oktoberfest: Small Dogs, Big Ambitions
Where: Girdwood Brewing Company, 2700 Alyeska Highway, Girdwood.
When: Saturday, September 19, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Combine your autumn-color outing with a celebration where some of the most determined athletes have approximately four inches of ground clearance.
Girdwood Brewing’s 10th annual Oktoberfest features its seasonal FestBeär lager, commemorative steins, beer games and a stein-holding competition. The dachshund races start at 3:30 p.m., followed by live music from Good Company at 6 p.m. Admission is free; purchases are separate.
There’s also a dachshund gathering and parade, but the brewery’s page gives conflicting parade times—check with the brewery before planning around that portion. Race registration has already closed, so this is your invitation to cheer rather than enter your speedy sausage.
More info: Official Oktoberfest schedule
Another Girdwood sidequest: The Alyeska Motor Rally runs Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., from the Alyeska Day Lodge base area. Dirt bikes and UTVs tackle a timed mountain climb; parking is listed at $20. It’s a separate event, so check the organizer’s details for access and logistics. Official rally information
Singin’ in the Rain: Come for Gene Kelly, Stay for the Conversation
Where: Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 W. 27th Avenue, Anchorage.
When: Sunday, September 20, 1 p.m., with a Cinema Club discussion afterward.
Here’s a Sunday plan that comes with its own good mood.
The Anchorage Cinema Club is presenting Singin’ in the Rain as part of Bear Tooth’s monthly Classic Cinema Series, bringing older favorites back to the big screen and giving movie lovers a reason to gather. This month’s film was chosen from suggestions made by people at the previous screening, ie: your fellow audience members are helping shape what comes next.
Afterward, club members will be at the restaurant to talk about the movie, and everyone is welcome to join. That’s the part I especially like: the credits roll, but the afternoon doesn’t have to end.
The 1952 musical stars Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor, runs 103 minutes, and is rated G. Bring someone discovering it for the first time, or someone who already knows exactly when they’ll start humming.
More info and tickets: Bear Tooth’s screening and Cinema Club details
Honorable Mention: Free Care at the Sullivan Arena
Where: Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell Street, Anchorage.
When: Saturday–Sunday, September 19–20; clinic doors open at 6 a.m.
This one deserves a share even if you don’t need it yourself.
Remote Area Medical is offering free dental, vision and basic medical services, open to everyone, with no ID, insurance or income requirements. Services are first come, first served, and capacity can fill early.
Patients choose between dental and vision care; medical services are offered in addition. The parking area opens no later than 11:59 p.m. Friday, and patients must stay on-site to hold their place. There’s no indoor waiting area before opening, so bring warm layers, snacks and water.
Whatever you choose, invite somebody along. A comedy show, a movie discussion or cheering for a very short dog can be the beginning of a pretty good friendship.
I’ll keep saying yes to a few more sidequests and keep you posted on what those winter collaborations become. In the meantime, enjoy the leaves while they’re still on the trees. They’re much less charming when they become a household chore.
Until next week, keep your plans colorful and your spare jacket handy.
— Mr. Anchorage