Nenana Ice Classic 2026: Alaska’s Most Famous Springtime Tradition Explained

alaska-traditions

Jun 27
Nenana Ice Classic 2026: Alaska’s Most Famous Springtime Tradition Explained

Every spring, Alaskans statewide bet on the exact minute the Tanana River ice breaks up near Nenana — a tradition running since 1917, with jackpots exceeding $300,000. Here's how the Ice Classic works, how to enter, when to visit, and why it captures something essential about Alaska's relationship with winter.