Nanook Traditions

 

2026 Winter Carnival | Feb 12-14

 

The Winter Carnival is back! â„ï¸ðŸŽ‰

Get ready for an unforgettable Alaskan experience

 

What’s more Alaskan than SNOW? This legendary event is your chance to break free from the winter monotony and dive into a thrilling lineup of activities that will have you embracing the cold in the most exhilarating ways. From heart-pounding ice climbing to the rush of dog mushing and everything in between, there’s something for everyone this February!

Born as a beloved tradition in Fairbanks, the Winter Carnival has deep roots in the community. Initially sparked by the local "Polar Bear" hockey team, it quickly became a time for students and locals alike to come together, celebrate the winter season, and get active outdoors. Back in 1927, students built the very first toboggan slide, marking the start of what would become an iconic winter celebration. Over the years, the event has only grown, with thrilling ski races, ice hockey showdowns, and more!

Now, it’s time to celebrate nearly 100 years of this frosty tradition. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of history and make some frosty memories of your own!

Schedule

12:30 p.m.—2 p.m. Alaska time
International Hot Chocolates Workshop

Location: Wood Center Mall

Make different hot chocolates from around the world.
12:30 p.m.—2 p.m. Alaska time
Tea-riffic Blends: DIY Loose Leaf Tea Workshop

Location: Wood Center Mall

Mix your own blend of loose leaf tea to enjoy during the cold winter months.
5 p.m.—7 p.m. Alaska time
LEGO Flower Making

Location: Arctic Java

Build a LEGO flower to keep or share this Valentine's weekend while supplies last.
5 p.m.—7 p.m. Alaska time
Mask Making

Location: Arctic Java

Decorate a masquerade mask to wear during Friday's Polar Lights Promenade
6 p.m.—8 p.m. Alaska time
Outdoor Ice Skating

Location: Beluga Field Ice Rink

Enjoy some time outside under the stars while ice skating, and then warm up next to a cozy fire after.
7 p.m. Alaska time
Polar Plunge

Location: Outside of the Student Recreation Center

Feeling daring and brave? Sign up for the Polar Plunge and make some unforgettable memories with friends!
7 p.m. Alaska time
Women's Basketball vs. Simon Fraser University

Location: Patty Center Alaska Airline Gym

Cheer on your Nanooks as they play against the SFU Red Leafs
1 p.m.—3 p.m. Alaska time
Dog Sledding with Trail Breaker Kennel

Location: Beluga Field
2 p.m.—5 p.m. Alaska time
Craft Corner

Location: Arctic Java

Make postcards and Valentine's cards, decorate a masquerade mask, and snap pictures at the photobooth while listening to live music from the ÃÛÌÒTV Music Collective
5 p.m.—7 p.m. Alaska time
Snowcones & Sing-Along

Location: Hess Recreation Center

Sing some tunes and rest your vocals with some cooling snow cones in between sets
5 p.m.—7 p.m. Alaska time
Winter Gaming Carnival

Location: Alaska Esports Center

Participate in some light-hearted competition against your friends in the fan-favorite games Goat Simulator, Rocket League Hockey, Overcooked 2, and Mario Party Jamboree
7 p.m. Alaska time
Polar Lights Promenade

Location: Wood Center Ballroom

Don your mask, dress to impress, and dance the night away in a magical atmosphere full of music, laughter, and unforgettable memories at the masquerade.
12 p.m.—4 p.m. Alaska time
Nordic Skiing

Location: North Campus Ski Trails
12 p.m.—4 p.m. Alaska time
Ice Climbing

Location: Beluga Field
12 p.m.—4 p.m. Alaska time
Outdoor Ice Skating

Location: Outdoor Ice Rink at the Student Recreation Center
12 p.m.—4 p.m. Alaska time
Sledding

Location: Beluga Field
1 p.m.—2 p.m. Alaska time
Will It Sled?

Location: Beluga Field

Bring your own non-sled in this silly sledding competition! Whether it be a trash can lid or your roommate's inflatable mattress, accept the challenge and answer the question, "Will it sled?"
1 p.m.—3 p.m. Alaska time
Dog Sledding with Trail Breaker Kennel

Location: Beluga Field
2 p.m.—4 p.m. Alaska time
Build A Sled Competition

Location: Beluga Field

Using only the materials provided, construct a sled out of cardboard, tape, and a will to succeed. Judges will be looking at structural integrity, speed, and coolness factor.
3 p.m. Alaska time
Be My Nanook? V-Day Women's Basketball Game: ÃÛÌÒTV vs. Western Washington University

Location: Patty Center Alaska Airlines Gym

How much does a Nanook weigh? Enough to break the ice! Cheer on the Alaska Nanooks as they play against the Vikings, and participate in the posterboard pick-up line contest this Valentine's Day.