The air is crisp like a Braeburn apple, and the scent of pumpkin lattes is in the air. We are officially in full fall mode. That means it’s time for many of the traditions of October. Among them is the Alaska Federation of Natives convention, a major gathering for the state’s largest Alaska Native organization. Plus there’s the AK Ski Swap for those ready for snow to fall. And of course October means Halloween, and events are already starting to ramp up. For fans of fabulous photography, there’s the ADN’s Behind the Images event, a conversation with ADN photojournalists. Space is limited so check for ticket availability. Here’s a look at what’s ahead this weekend.
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Alaska Federation of Natives convention
Thursday-Friday-Saturday, Dena’ina Center, 600 W. Seventh Ave.
AFN is an annual convention that serves as a main forum and gathering for the Alaska Native community. It includes discussion of public policy, speeches, reports from leaders and presentations from expert panels. It is also a major cultural gathering with dances, sharing of arts and celebrations. No registration is necessary.
[The AFN convention opens Thursday in Anchorage: Here’s a schedule of events]
Curse of the Mummy
7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday; Grant Hall on APU Campus, 4101 University Drive
Muwahahaha — Halloween is right around the corner, and what better primer than a performance of the “Curse of the Mummy.” TBA Theatre is producing the play in which students travel to Egypt in 1933 and uncover ancient secrets. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students, seniors and military and $8 for kids 12 and under.
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Haunted and Enchanted Trails
7-9 p.m. Friday, 2-4 p.m. Saturday; Goose Lake Park, 3038 Widgeon Lane
In the mood to be haunted? Creatures of the forest will come alive at the haunted trail at Goose Lake on Friday night. Presented by Anchorage Parks and Recreation, this event is intended for ages 9 and up. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. On Saturday, the same trails will become enchanted with forest fairies, knights and hidden wizards and elves. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and kids 2 and under get in free.
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AK Ski Swap
Noon-5 p.m. Saturday; Alaska Airlines Center, 3550 Providence Drive
Need some new ski gear? Want to get rid of some of your old ski equipment? The AK Ski Swap may be for you. You can register your gear or just show up and browse. The final hour of the swap, from 4-5 p.m. Saturday, is happy hour with 50% off discounted items.
Alaska Aviation Museum’s Big Band Bash
6:30 p.m. Saturday; Alaska Aviation Museum, 4721 Aircraft Drive
The Alaska Aviation Museum hosts this evening of dinner, dancing and big-band music. There will be live and silent auctions, a best-dressed award and a dance contest. Anchorage Jazz Ensemble will provide the soundtrack for a night of big band and swing music. Tickets range from $45-$100 with discounts available for first responders, military and seniors.
Peter Mulvey
7:30 p.m. Saturday; Voth Hall, 621 W. Sixth Ave.
Peter Mulvey has been on the road playing music for more than three decades and has 20 albums under his belt. A regular performing in Alaska, Mulvey takes the stage at Voth Hall at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts this weekend. Local musician Zane Penny opens. Tickets are $35 general admission and $32 for those 18 and under.