Your Guide to the Juneau Maritime Festival

The Juneau Maritime Festival is one of the city’s signature annual events, celebrating Alaska’s rich maritime heritage, thriving seafood industry, and coastal culture. Held in the heart of downtown Juneau, this lively festival brings together locals and visitors for a day of delicious food, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a maritime history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience in Alaska’s capital, the Juneau Maritime Festival is not to be missed.  

When and Where is the Juneau Maritime Festival?

The Juneau Maritime Festival takes place May 3rd, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza, a central hub for community gatherings in downtown Juneau. The festival offers a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. 

Top Things to Do at the Juneau Maritime Festival

The festival offers an exciting lineup of activities that celebrate the city’s deep connection to the sea. Here are some highlights to look forward to: 

Savor Fresh Alaska Seafood

One of the biggest draws of the festival is the chance to indulge in the finest Juneau seafood. Taku Smokeries and Alaska Glacier Seafood sponsor a booth and serve FREE grilled fish. But that’s not the only thing on the menu. More than a dozen vendors will be on site serving a variety of cuisines. Whether you prefer fresher-than-fresh grilled salmon, a classic hot dog, Hawaiian poke, or traditional tacos, there’s something for every palate. Be sure to stop by the Beer Garden for a sampling of craft brews!  

Enjoy Juneau Live Music and Entertainment

Maritime Fest captures the Juneau live music scene with performances from local bands, folk musicians, and cultural groups. The lively atmosphere is perfect for kicking back and soaking in the coastal vibes while enjoying the scenic waterfront backdrop. Don’t miss special appearances by the One People Canoe Society and Yees Ku Oo Dancers. Performers on the main stage this year will be: 

• Juneau Alaska Music Matters (JAMM): Local nonprofit JAMM teaches youth to do just that! Don’t miss this special performance by young area musicians.   
• Vox Borealis: This vocal group sings sea shanties sure to get you in the maritime mood! 
• The Rain Dogs: This energetic Indie pop punk band plays songs you can bounce around to and still feel all the feels. 
• Navy Band Northwest: Made of active members of the U.S. Navy who are also professional musicians, this group performs funk, rhythm and blues, jazz and soul music in the New Orleans tradition sure to get you movin’ and groovin’.  

Enjoy Maritime Activities

Families and maritime enthusiasts can enjoy over 35 informational booths featuring environmental stewardship and local advocacy groups. Many of the booths also feature free kids’ activities for hands-on fun. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Alaska’s seafaring traditions and maritime services and often welcomes appearances by the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. 

One can’t-miss activity is the annual Tug of War Contest at 3 p.m. on the sea walk! Teams of 6-8 people may enter for free. The tournament is double elimination, and each member of the winning team gets a $50 gift certificate to Petro One Airport Juneau — plus bragging rights. (There’s also a huge trophy!) 

Embark on a Juneau Harbor Cruise

For those looking to explore beyond the festival grounds, Allen Marine Tours offers special Juneau cruises during the event. These harbor tours provide a closer look at the breathtaking scenery, marine wildlife, and working fishing vessels that define life in Juneau’s waters. Choose from kid-centric, environmental/historical, and live music-themed cruises running at 45-minute intervals throughout the day. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids ages 2-12, and free for children under 2 years old. Proceeds from all ticket sales benefit the Juneau Maritime Festival. Trips include:  

• Trip 1: Kids Cruise hosted by Juneau Public Libraries 
• Trip 2: Environmental Speaker — Alaska Department of Fish and Game 
• Trip 3: Singer-songwriter Quinton Woolman-Morgan 
• Trip 4: Juneau Lyric Opera Beer Choir, which is exactly what it sounds like — a choir that drinks beer while singing! 

Shop Local Artisans and Vendors

The festival is also a great place to support local artists and businesses. Browse over 30 booths filled with handcrafted jewelry, maritime-themed artwork, home goods, clothing, and unique souvenirs that reflect Alaska’s coastal charm. 

Where to Stay Near the Juneau Maritime Festival

To fully immerse yourself in the Juneau events scene, consider staying in Downtown Juneau, where you’ll be just steps away from the Maritime Festival and other key attractions. There are a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets, from cozy inns and boutique hotels to full-service lodges with waterfront views. 

For lodging recommendations, visit the places to stay page to find the best options near Peratrovich Plaza. 

All Hands on Deck! 

Whether you’re arriving by cruise, ferry, or plane, the Juneau Maritime Festival offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Alaska’s coastal culture. From savoring the freshest seafood to enjoying local music and maritime activities, this annual event is the perfect way to celebrate Juneau’s deep ties to the sea. 

For the most up-to-date information on festival dates, times, and schedules, check out the event’s official website.