Alaska Official State Vacation Planner • 2024 • Shop Alaska Keepsakes

It’s hard to imagine fitting something into your suitcase that can adequately capture all of the memorable experiences that Alaska gives to every visitor. However, no one understands Alaska’s majesty and outstanding beauty better than local artisans, craftsmen, and artists. Those who live here source local ingredients and materials, often relying on traditional practices to create one-of-a-kind Alaska keepsakes you can treasure long after your trip.

Alaska Native artwork, carvings, woven baskets, and Ulu knives–used by Alaska Natives to process whale, seal, and other meats–are primarily found at heritage centers and museums throughout the state.

Walrus ivory is one of the most novel souvenirs you can purchase. Rest assured, unlike illegal ivory in other parts of the world, walrus sourcing is sustainable and acceptable in Alaska. Indigenous groups are able to continue the practices of their ancestors to create intricate and detailed designs.

Jade jewelry, as well as traditional beadwork, are artfully showcased in Alaska Native regalia, hair clips, bags, and other specially made adornments.

Qiviut, the downy-soft underwool from the Arctic musk ox, is one of the finest natural fibers in the world. It remains a popular medium to handknit items such as hide-in gloves, slippers, hats, tunics, and other clothing.

Burl bowls, made from Alaska Birch trees, as well as fish skin wallets and skincare products like glacial mud and handmade natural soaps, are a few examples of items curated using traditional practices with a modern touch.

Buying products with the Silver Hand seal can help you identify authentic artwork and helps promote Alaska Native artists in the marketplace. Similarly, the “Made in Alaska” symbol is your assurance that an item was made in Alaska by a resident artist, craftsperson, or state manufacturer.

Markets bring together local vendors, artisans, growers, and small businesses to offer Alaskan-made goods. From art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, and flowers to plants, fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty foods, markets are a great way to find it all.

Open from May-September, this market in Anchorage lives up to its “social” name with fresh food, live music, and a beer garden.

Local produce, seafood, meat, arts and crafts, and more are available May-October at this popular farmers market in Anchorage.

At Alaska’s largest open-air market, shop up to 100 vendors offering art, photography, apparel, fresh produce, and souvenirs every Saturday and Sunday, May-September.

Local farmers and artisans open their stands July-September at this market in Kodiak, where some of the freshest seafood makes a name for itself.

With a focus on local food, this market in Sitka brings together vendors, food trucks, and farmers to celebrate seasonal bounty all summer long.

Located in downtown Seward, come enjoy fresh produce, homemade food, handcrafted items, and local musicians every Saturday, June-early September.

Saturdays and Wednesdays, early May-September, come enjoy the greenhouse, garden, local produce, and more at this scenic market in Homer.

With many Silver Hand, Alaska Native-focused crafts and vendors, this market in Fairbanks showcases a wide range of artistry, food, and woodworking.

Alaska Official State Vacation Planner - 2024

Shop Alaska Keepsakes

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