As the summer crowds disperse and fall settles over Homer, Alaska, community spirit is just getting warmed up. With a lineup of engaging events, there's plenty of fun and community connection. Here's what's on the docket as we transition from the golden hues of fall into the festive winter spirit!

 

Homer Fall Festival - October 26, 2024

The 3rd Annual Homer Fall Festival is a testament to Alaska’s love for autumn. Scheduled for Saturday, October 26, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this festival promises a day packed with family-friendly fun.

Festival Schedule:

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Drop off and register your creatively carved pumpkins for the People's Choice Award. The winners will be announced at 7:00 PM. Remember to register for the Zombie 5K or Candy Run during this time.

  • 3:30 PM:  5K Zombie Run begins, with a Candy Run for the younger participants (details to follow).

  • 4:00 PM: Enjoy traditional festival fun with a potato sack and three-legged races, and gather around the fire pit for s'mores. Get in line for face painting or decorate cookies inside. There will be two firepits, baked goods, and smores from the Paul Banks Elementary PTA with a few other local vendors: Dolce Lucca, Siren’s Seafood, and Grace Ridge Brewing, serving a honey rootbeer. Other local art vendors will be BarcStone Photography, Glory View Church, Chingona, and It's Us, LLC. 

  • 5:00 PM: It's time for the Kids and Pet Costume Contest. Dress up in your most creative costumes and vie for a prize. The categories are cutest, scariest, funniest, best owner/dog look-alike, and best celebrity costume, minus the last two for the kid categories. 

  • 6:00 PM: Relax with Zoey's Reading Hour, perfect for kids as the day winds down.

  • Sunset at 6:22 PM: Enjoy a stunning sunset that beautifully transitions into the evening's activities.

  • 7:00 PM: Announcement of our contest winners.

  • 8:00 PM: Festival wraps up. 

 

Pioneer Avenue Trick or Treat - October 31, 2024

Prepare your costumes for a huge trick-or-treat event on Pioneer Avenue this Halloween from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A map showcasing all participating businesses will be available on our Facebook page closer to the event and on our website under the Event Tab. It's a perfect way for families to enjoy Halloween in a safe and welcoming environment while getting to know the local businesses. Some go all-out with blow-up decorations and mini haunted houses like the Fire Department. 

 

Shop Local Bingo - November 29 - December 1, 2024

Kickstart your holiday shopping with our Shop Local Bingo from November 29 to December 1 to support local shops and businesses! Pick up a Bingo Card at the Homer Visitor Center or any participating store. There are 25 Bingo spots, and if you get all the spots over the weekend, Nov 29 - Dec 1, you can be entered to win the grand prize of $500 in Homer Bucks or one of several Gift Packages. Explore our local shops, enjoy special promotions, and collect stamps. Remember to turn in your completed Bingo Card anytime after and no later than the Holiday Tree Lighting. 

Each participating store contributed a gift of a value of at least $25 (often more), and those get put together for five fantastic prize packages that will be drawn after the bingo grand prize winner. In 2024, people got to experience The Dean Gallery for the first time, the Driftwood Inn’s historic lobby, and all the retail shops, which also had something special. Many shops offer deals and discounts over the weekend, and those details will be on the back of the bingo card. Plan out your stops accordingly and check which stores are closed on Sunday so you don’t miss out on a chance to get a Bingo or Blackout. 

 

Holiday Tree Lighting - December 5, 2024

The holiday season in Homer begins with the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting event on Thursday, December 5, starting at 5:30 PM. This family-friendly event is magical, with the local KP Brass Band getting everyone in the holiday spirit. 

Mark your calendars, participate in the festivities, and experience Homer's unique charm as we celebrate fall and welcome winter!

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on all things Homer! 📸✨ If you're planning a visit, be sure to check out our Visitor Guide for insider tips and everything you need to make your Homer adventure unforgettable! 🌲🚣‍♂️ #VisitHomer