when is salmon fest

When is Salmon Fest? Your Guide to Alaska’s Premier Music Festival

Salmonfest is Alaska’s premier music festival, featuring three days of live music, food, and fun against the scenic backdrop of Cook Inlet and the Kenai Mountains. If you’re wondering when exactly Salmonfest takes place each year, this article will provide all the details on the festival’s dates, location, lineup, activities, and more!

When Does Salmonfest Happen?

Salmonfest occurs every summer, traditionally on the first weekend of August. For 2024, the festival will take place from August 2nd to August 4th. The gates open at noon on Friday, August 2nd, and music starts in the afternoon and goes late into the night. Saturday, August 3rd, from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday, August 4th, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Salmonfest 2024: August 2nd to 4th
• Gates Open: Friday at 12PM
• Hours: Fri 12PM-2AM, Sat 11AM-2AM, Sun 11AM-10PM

People who go to Salmonfest can enjoy all of its music, camping, food, and other activities for the whole weekend thanks to this schedule. With both day and nighttime activities, there’s something for everyone!.

Where Does Salmonfest Take Place?

Salmonfest takes place at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Ninilchik, Alaska. Ninilchik is a small, scenic town located on the Kenai Peninsula, about 160 miles southwest of Anchorage. The town boasts dramatic views of Cook Inlet, the Kenai Mountains, and Mt. Redoubt.

The festival grounds are right along the coast, providing an idyllic backdrop for the event. Three stages are set up on the fairgrounds, with camping areas, food vendors, and other amenities all conveniently located on-site. The natural beauty of the surroundings combined with the music and festivities make for an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

Who’s Headlining Salmonfest 2024?

The lineup for Salmonfest 2024 features an eclectic mix of genres and talents. Headliners announced so far include:

• Michael Franti & Spearhead: The upbeat rock/reggae artist known for hits like “Say Hey (I Love You)” and “Sound of Sunshine.”

• Dawes: LA folk rock band with lush harmonies and heartfelt lyrics.

• The Devil Makes Three: Energetic Americana/bluegrass trio.

More acts will be announced leading up to the festival. Past Salmonfests have featured artists like Portugal. The Man, The Avett Brothers, Grace Potter, and Cage the Elephant. The festival prides itself on booking current chart-toppers along with up-and-coming indie talent.

What Else Happens at Salmonfest?

In addition to the stellar musical lineup, Salmonfest offers a range of other activities and experiences:

• Camping: On-site camping is available, allowing you to stay right at the fairgrounds all weekend long. Tents, RVs, and campers are welcome.

• Food & Vendors: You can get your fill of classic festival fare like salmon burgers, corn dogs, and kettle corn. Local Alaskan seafood is a highlight.

• Alaska Beer & Wine Garden: A beer garden showcases Alaskan breweries while a wine tent offers picks from West Coast vineyards.

• Artisan Market: Shop jewelry, clothing, glass art, and unique creations from local Alaskan artisans.

• Kids Zone: Little ones can enjoy facepainting, music workshops, and other family activities.

• Salmon Fishing: Take a break from the festival to go salmon fishing on the world-renowned Kenai River.

• Alaska Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for whales, seabirds, and other Alaskan animals around the festival grounds.

Planning Your Salmonfest Experience

If you’re interested in attending Salmonfest 2024, start planning early as on-site camping and shuttle passes sell out every year. Here are some tips to make the most of your time at the festival:

• Get tickets/camping early – General admission tickets typically go on sale in late April. Reserve a campsite as soon as you can.

• Review the lineup and schedule – Once announced, preview set times so you can plan who you want to see.

• Pack accordingly – Bring warm layers, rain boots, camping gear, sunscreen, etc. Check the Ninilchik forecast.

• Explore the grounds – Be sure to check out all the stages, vendors, food options and activities across the fairgrounds.

• Pace yourself – With late night sets and active days, take time to rest and refuel.

• Consider the upgrades – VIP tickets and glamping sites provide extras like exclusive lounges, private restrooms and guaranteed close parking.

• Volunteer – If you volunteer for a shift, you can get free admission and a festival t-shirt. A great way to save money!

However you choose to experience Salmonfest, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable weekend celebrating music, food, and Alaskan culture against the beauty of the Kenai Peninsula. Mark those calendars for August 2nd-4th, 2024 and start getting excited about Salmonfest!

Frequency of Entities:

salmonfest: 36 times
music: 10 times
festival: 36 times
alaska: 9 times
kenai: 5 times
ninilchik: 5 times
salmon: 4 times
camping: 4 times