Quick Details

• When: April 24-26, 2026
• Where: Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
• Main Event: Pond skimming Saturday at 4:00 PM
• Price: Free to watch, $50 costume contest entry

The 49th annual Alyeska Resort Spring Carnival transforms Girdwood into Alaska's ultimate spring skiing celebration. This year's theme, "The Last Frontier," honors Alaska's statehood as thousands gather to watch fearless skiers and snowboarders attempt the legendary pond skim.

The weekend kicks off Friday evening with costume contest registration at 5:00 PM, followed by judging from 6-8 PM. Winners earn coveted spots in Saturday's main event—only 50 entries are available, and this is the only way in. Saturday brings the main spectacle when participants in wild costumes race down the slope and attempt to skim across an icy pond at 4:00 PM while crowds cheer from the Christmas Run venue.

Beyond the pond skimming, the carnival features live music with Andy Frasco & The U.N. performing Saturday from 9 PM-1 AM at the base of Bear Cub Quad. Sunday offers family activities including a mini-midway starting at 11:00 AM, free dog mushing with Alyeska Tours, and vendor booths in the Christmas Lot. The weekend victor takes home either an Alyeska Resort 2026-2027 season pass or two Alaska Airlines "Fly Anywhere" vouchers.

Alyeska Resort sits 30 miles south of Anchorage in the scenic Chugach Mountains, offering spectacular glacier and ocean views. The resort provides ample parking and dining options, making it easy for families to spend the entire weekend celebrating spring's arrival in true Alaskan style.