Anchorage, officially called the Municipality of Anchorage, is the largest city in Alaska, and when combined with its metropolitan area accounts for half of Alaska's total population. Anchorage is located in southern central Alaska and has a subarctic climate. The summers are typically mild, although you aren't likely to find much sunbathing going on, except on the hottest days. The winters in Anchorage are cold and unpredictable. Some winters see Anchorage with cold temperatures and several feet of snow, while others feature only a foot or two of snow and frequent thaws. Aside from snowy conditions, winters this far north also see very little sunlight.
Anchorage is surrounded by the unique landscape and ecosystem of the Alaskan terrain. There are several parks within the city, such as the Delaney Park Strip, Kincaid Park and Point Woronzof Park. There are also several ski resorts located in the area in order for visitors and locals to take advantage of the winter snow. Other attractions in Anchorage include the Alaska Zoo, the Alaska Wildlife Conservatory and the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Museum.
The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts hosts many events throughout the year and is the home to eight performing arts companies. The Center hosts the International Ice Carving Competition each year, which is a part of the Fur Rendezvous Festival in February. In September, Anchorage sees the Sitka Summer Music Festival for two weeks on the Alaska Pacific University campus.
