Sun is in the forecast for the next three days in Ninilchik, Alaska. Day one of the three-day music festival, Salmonfest 2024, kicks off in the Kenai Peninsula today. The festival celebrates the region's iconic fish, giving tribute to the cultural heritage and environmental stewardship that defines the Alaskan way of life.
Since its inception in 2011, Salmonfest, originally known as the Salmonstock Music Festival, has grown into one of Alaska's most beloved events, drawing over 8,000 people from across the state and beyond. The festival, which runs from August 2-4, is a lively mix of music, art, food, and activism, all centered around the celebration and conservation of salmon and their habitats.
“Salmon is known as the iconic species of Alaska and while protecting Bristol Bay has been our primary focus over the years, we also support many causes year-round. Since 2015, Salmonfest has donated nearly $250,000 to salmon and related initiatives throughout Alaska,” the event’s website notes.
The festival honors the "king of fish" with a host of activities that highlight salmon’s importance to the region. From educational workshops and panels led by local fishermen and scientists to art installations and cooking demonstrations, Salmonfest provides a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering a deeper appreciation for the species.
This year’s headliners include Michael Franti and Spearhead, The Devil Makes Three, Dawes, and The Cat Empire, with additional bands like Kitchen Dwellers and LowDown Brass Band playing at four different stages. The full lineup can be viewed here.
“One of Salmonfest’s best features is the ‘Salmon Causeway’ which allows our guests to learn, engage and take action on the many issues facing Alaska and the world at large,” the website notes. “Moreover, Salmonfest strives to be a Zero Waste event where all discarded materials are designed to become resources for other uses.”
As Salmonfest 2024 unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Alaskan community. Despite environmental changes and economic pressures, the people of Alaska continue to come together to celebrate their shared heritage and work towards a sustainable future. The festival promises a weekend of music, art, and unity in the heart of Ninilchik.
