Blogs

Alaska World Arts Festival (September 13-26, 2024)

Immerse yourself in a world of creativity at the  Alaska World Arts Festival, a two-week event celebrating global art, music, literature, and theater.

• Date: September 13-26, 2024

• Tickets

• Highlights:

  • Performances in visual arts, music, literature, and theater

  • Festival Pass grants access to all performances; registration required for individual events

  • Workshops and masterclasses with renowned artists

  • Literary readings by established and emerging authors

  • Art galleries featuring works by local and international artists

Oktoberfest (Saturday, September 7, 2024) 

Join the fun at Homer's Oktoberfest, an event by Homer Council on the Arts. Enjoy traditional Bavarian music, food, and beer in a lively and festive atmosphere. Get tickets early. Oktoberfest is one of the most popular things to do in Homer Alaska in the Fall.

• Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 6-9 pm

• Location: Best Western Bidarka Inn

• Tickets

• Highlights:

  • Live music by Alaska Blaskapelle, a traditional Bavarian polka band

  • A variety of German-inspired dishes, including brats, veggie dogs, pretzels, and desserts

  • Local brews from Kenai Peninsula breweries; discounts for bringing your stein

  • Limited edition HCOA Oktoberfest Stein available for purchase

  • A night of dancing, singing, and community spirit

Rarefied Light Exhibit at the Pratt Museum (October 1, 2024 - January 5, 2025)

Discover the beauty of Alaska through the lens of talented photographers at the Rarefied Light exhibition at the Pratt Museum. 

• Exhibition Dates: October 1, 2024 - January 5, 2025

• Opening Reception: Friday, October 4, 2024, from 4-6 pm (Free)

• Highlights:

  • Alaska's largest annual fine art photography exhibition

  • 46 photographs by 35 artists, selected from nearly 400 entries

  • Curated by the Alaska Photographic Center

Ye Olde Harvest Festival (October 5-6, 2024)

Step back in time at the Ye Olde Harvest Festival, where you can experience the magic of a Renaissance fair with knights, fairies, and pirates.

• Dates: October 5-6, 2024

• Location: Karen Hornaday Park

• Highlights:

  • Heraldry contests and medieval-themed activities

  • Sparkling Cove with the Mermaid Queen, chess, crafting, and vendors

  • Mystic Forest with the Fairy Queen, magical creatures, and more vendors

  • Davy Jones' Locker with pirate-themed activities, face painting, and tattoos

  • Sword in the Stone area with local farmers, a sparring ring, jousting, and more

  • Main stage with live music and performances throughout the day

  • Variety of food and treats available, plus a Tavern for refreshments

Homer Fall Festival (October 26, 2024) 

Celebrate the end of Fall with the Homer Fall Festival, a family-friendly event filled with seasonal activities and fun for all ages.

• Date: October 26, 2024

• Highlights:

  • Zombie 5K run for thrill-seekers

  • Pumpkin Carving Contest with prizes (Homer Bucks)

  • Haunted Trail Walk for a spooky adventure

  • Spooky Story Time for kids

  • Warm fire, kettle corn, and other fall treats

  • Donut string eating contest and photo booth

  • Pet Costume Contest hosted by Homer Animal Friends and the Homer Animal Shelter

Things to Do in Homer Alaska

Homer, Alaska, offers a rich tapestry of events celebrating the season's beauty and the community's spirit. Whether you're enjoying the arts at the Homer Alaska World Arts Festival, dancing at Oktoberfest, or stepping into a fantasy world at the Ye Olde Harvest Festival, there are many things to do in Homer Alaska. Mark your calendars for these fabulous fall events and make the most of your autumn in Homer.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Homer, Alaska, Weather like in the Fall?

Fall in Homer is more than just cooling temperatures and increasing wind speeds; it's also a time for the spectacular fall foliage display. The forests and tundra light up with purples, reds, yellows, and oranges.

Can I fish in Homer Alaska in the Fall?

Yes, you can fish in Homer, Alaska, in the Fall. The season offers excellent opportunities for catching species like silver salmon, halibut, and rockfish. Homer’s famous "Spit" and nearby rivers are popular spots for anglers during this time.

Can I take a bear viewing tour from Homer Alaska in the Fall? 

You can go bear viewing from Homer, Alaska, in the fall. In September, bears are often spotted near coastal areas, feeding on the last salmon runs before hibernation. Guided tours are available via small plane to remote locations like Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks.