Every March Anchorage, Alaska, hosts one of North America’s most bizarre athletic traditions: the Running of the Reindeer. Taking inspiration from Spain’s famous Running of the Bulls—but replacing bulls with friendly Alaskan reindeer—that’s an event that is both quirky and fun.
How It All Started
The origins of the Running of the Reindeer are somewhat debated.
However, everyone agrees radio host Bob Lester first brought the concept to the public’s attention. In 2007, while jokingly comparing Anchorage’s festival to Spain’s bull run on his morning radio show, Lester suggested substituting bulls with reindeer.
Festival director Susan Duck liked the idea and immediately set things in motion.
Current Fur Rendezvous Festival (Fur Rondy) director John McCleary recalls a slightly different version involving a runaway reindeer during a sled dog race, which amused Lester and his co-host enough to spark the idea.
Whichever story you prefer, the Running of the Reindeer officially kicked off in 2008 and quickly became one of Fur Rondy’s highlights.
Rapid Growth and Popularity
Initially, the event featured just nine reindeer and 1,000 runners. Today, more than 1,500 people participate alongside two dozen reindeer.
Participants sprint down a three-and-a-half-block stretch of Anchorage’s 4th Avenue, cheered on by thousands of spectators.
Runners come in all sorts of costumes—from superheroes and cartoon characters to people braving the cold in bikinis and shorts. Groups are divided by categories, such as men, women, teams, and tourists, to manage crowds and keep the race fun and accessible.
A Festival With Deep Alaskan Roots
The Running of the Reindeer has breathed new life into Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous Festival, which dates back to 1935.
The original event, created to lift local spirits during Alaska’s harsh winters, combined winter sports, fur trading, and social gatherings. Despite a long history, by the early 2000s, the festival faced declining interest and attendance.
This quirky event turned things around. Fur Rondy now draws up to 100,000 visitors annually, significantly boosting Anchorage’s winter economy. It has become an essential part of the local cultural landscape.
Safe and Enjoyable for Everyone
Despite the seemingly chaotic nature, organizers take careful measures to ensure safety. Denise Hardy from the Reindeer Farm in nearby Palmer manages the animals, ensuring they’re healthy and rested between heats. Although runners occasionally trip over each other, there’s never been a serious injury caused by a reindeer.
The event also serves a good cause, raising thousands of dollars for charities such as Toys for Tots every year. Fur Rondy itself supports over 40 local nonprofit organizations.
An International Draw
Running of the Reindeer isn’t just popular locally—it’s gained recognition abroad.
In 2024, the event won an international award for “Best Event,” with visitors from across the globe, including Australia, Norway, Italy, and Mexico, now regularly participating.
More Than Just a Race
Ultimately, the Running of the Reindeer offers visitors a unique Alaskan experience. It’s a chance to see Alaska’s vibrant community spirit firsthand, with plenty of laughter, fun, and memorable moments. As Bob Lester humorously notes, no matter how fast participants run, “The reindeer always win.”
