Events in Valdez, Alaska
Festivals, markets, concerts, and community events posted by identity-verified locals in Valdez and across Alaska.
Valdez Silver Salmon Derby
Season-long fishing derby running July 25 through September 6, 2026. Grand Prize $10,000 cash for largest silver salmon; $3,000 for 2nd; $1,500 for 3rd; daily prizes. Special events: Big Prize Fridays, Salmon Slam bonus tournament Aug 28-Sept 6, and Women's Silver Salmon Derby Aug 8. Derby ticket $10/day or $50/season.
Valdez Kids Pink Salmon Derby
One-day fishing derby for children ages 5-16 with four age divisions (5-7, 8-10, 11-13, 14-16). $100 cash and 2 fishing poles per division winner. Entries 6:01 AM - midnight. Features a live radio show for kids on KVAK 5-6 PM.
Valdez Gold Rush Days
Valdez Gold Rush Days is an annual community celebration running July 29 through August 2, featuring a community parade, Can Can Girls performances, a local market, and live music. The event celebrates Valdez's gold rush heritage and is one of the town's biggest annual events. The full schedule is posted at valdezgoldrushdays.org.
Valdez Gold Rush Days Parade
The Valdez Gold Rush Days community parade is the centerpiece of the annual Gold Rush Days celebration, held during the July 29 through August 2 festival. The parade features community floats, marching groups, and local organizations through downtown Valdez. The full schedule is posted at valdezgoldrushdays.org.
Valdez Women's Silver Salmon Derby
Annual women's fishing derby. Friday Aug 7: Breast Cancer Awareness Walk 6:30 PM, Art Scramble 7 PM, Group Costume Contest 7-9 PM. Saturday Aug 8: fishing and weigh-in 9 AM-6 PM. Queen of the Silver Salmon Sisterhood wins $1,000 cash + $1,000 in prizes. Registration $30 + derby ticket.
