Today on Alaska Public Radio they suggested that Alaska is probably unique in the scale of summer solstice celebrations. However, the announcer also pointed out that Fairbanksans, with their typical optimism, will now begin to say "OK, that's it, summer is over".
A small window on the crowd -- and the ominous sky. Luckily, after rain in the morning, it cleared up and the temperature remained around 65 F.
Kid's in Fairbanks are no wimps. In addition to skateboarding there was an impressive climbing wall set up -- complete with safety ropes.
As a reminder that winter is never far from anyone's thoughts up here, there were hand-knitted wool hats for sale.
Then, again, huskies were present as well. Note that these are panting and it is only 65 F.
Back at the cabin I decided to go for a walk at midnight. This is Goldstream Road where it intersects Willow Run.
This photo requires some explanation (I suggest you do not try to enlarge it). I received an email from Ann the day before reminding me of the story of how she was chased by a moose last year on solstice. As I was heading back to the cabin at about 1:00 in the morning, I was musing that I would not likely be lucky enough to see a moose on the walk. About then my neighbor and landlord passed by on his way back to his cabin. He subsequently backed-up to alert me that there was a moose ahead. Having his truck behind me as back-up, I walked ahead and met this young moose face-to-face. My flash wasn't adequate to capture him well -- he was very dark and a ways off in the bushes. I still really like the photo of what I think of as my "magical moose". It was all I needed to complete a truly memorable summer solstice.
The celebration downtown goes from noon to midnight
The festivities are characterized by a lot of people, dogs (of course), bands, dancing exhibitions, crafts, and information booths. I was impressed that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had a booth, demonstrating that they are concerned about more than hurricanes in Florida.
A small window on the crowd -- and the ominous sky. Luckily, after rain in the morning, it cleared up and the temperature remained around 65 F.
There are flowers all over downtown Fairbanks -- hanging in front of buildings
... and in barrels in front of Lavelle's Bistro
Kid's in Fairbanks are no wimps. In addition to skateboarding there was an impressive climbing wall set up -- complete with safety ropes.
As a reminder that winter is never far from anyone's thoughts up here, there were hand-knitted wool hats for sale.
The variety of dogs was greater than generally seen in winter
These two were getting a lot of attention.
Then, again, huskies were present as well. Note that these are panting and it is only 65 F.
Back at the cabin I decided to go for a walk at midnight. This is Goldstream Road where it intersects Willow Run.
There were new wildflowers out. This is Valerian
... and Arctic Lupine
... and some kind of Saxifrage (I think)
Common Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium, ssp. angustifolium)
Apparently it is called fireweed because it can revegitate quickly after a fire due to its deep roots that escape damage.
... close-up
This photo requires some explanation (I suggest you do not try to enlarge it). I received an email from Ann the day before reminding me of the story of how she was chased by a moose last year on solstice. As I was heading back to the cabin at about 1:00 in the morning, I was musing that I would not likely be lucky enough to see a moose on the walk. About then my neighbor and landlord passed by on his way back to his cabin. He subsequently backed-up to alert me that there was a moose ahead. Having his truck behind me as back-up, I walked ahead and met this young moose face-to-face. My flash wasn't adequate to capture him well -- he was very dark and a ways off in the bushes. I still really like the photo of what I think of as my "magical moose". It was all I needed to complete a truly memorable summer solstice.
The sky at midnight
A serene scene of spruce against the sky.
Well, I guess I will now fall into the habit of Fairbanksans -- lamenting the loss of daylight minutes from now until December 21st.
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