The year kicks off in Seward with the Polar Bear Jump-Off, a leap of faith into the frigid 39°F water of Resurrection Bay on the third weekend in January. All sorts of goofy-costumed jumpers join the fray.

Every July 4th the Mt. Marathon Race attracts more than 800 runners who race up and back down the steep slopes of this 3,022-foot summit that rises behind Seward. Many do it in under an hour, but they end up with bruises and bloody knees to show for the torture—the record is 43 minutes and 23 seconds. It has been run annually since 1915. This event is a major Alaskan institution, filling the bars and campgrounds with runners and spectators.

August brings another event that draws the crowds, the Silver Salmon Derby, where the top prize is $10,000. This is one of Alaska’s richest fishing derbies, and it’s been going on for over 55 years. Entry costs $10 per day.

Liberty Theater (305 Adams St., 907/224-5418) shows movies.