Christmas

Folks donned ice cleats and mittens in Soldotna on Saturday to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. Christmas in the Park is an annual festival brimming with holiday cheer, treats and activities.

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge's annual tradition of Christmas tree cutting will open to the public Thursday. Trees must not exceed 20 feet in height, and must be cut with a hand tool.

A look at the central Kenai Peninsula's upcoming holiday bazaars, festivals and events.

Ornaments and tree skirts made from recycled, upcycled or natural materials that represent Alaska's people and traditions are encouraged for submission. This year’s Capitol Christmas tree will come from the state's Tongass National Forest.

The Kenai Peninsula Orchestra will host two matinee Christmas concerts this weekend. Performers will play 10 holiday classics at each show, highlighting the talent of nearly 100 orchestra and choir members from across the peninsula.

Central Peninsula Hospital has unveiled a magical mailbox for children to send their holiday wishes to Santa Claus. The annual tradition ensures a direct route to the jolly man himself, who will write back to each child who sends a letter.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a tree to show for it. If you’re hoping to chop down a tree of your own this holiday season, there are several free, local options to choose from.

The day after Thanksgiving may be best known as Black Friday, but for the central Kenai Peninsula, that day represents the much anticipated Christmas Comes to Kenai celebration. The annual community-building event draws bigger crowds each year.

Each household can cut down a tree, as long as it's shorter than 20 feet and is harvest with a hand tool, like an ax or saw. The Refuge is open for tree cutting until Christmas day.

There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than with good food.This week on the show, chef Joe Spady of Three Peaks talked to us about his own…