Far North Currant Festival highlights less-known Alaska berry

Bright red berries trail from green leaves on a sunny day.
Photo by Julie Stricker
Currants, like these red currants at Georgeson Botanical Garden, grow well in Alaska and are a tasty late-summer fruit. Learn more about them at the Far North Currant Festival on Aug. 24.

Currants are getting their day in the spotlight at the Far North Currant Festival. 

Currants, a type of berry, grow well in Alaska and are found across the state, with varieties ranging from a translucent red to trailing black. They are easy to grow and a nutritious addition to home gardens or as a specialty crop on farms. Currants are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins and can be made into wonderful jellies, syrups, pies and baked goods or enjoyed on their own.

The festival, which runs from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24, will include cooking demonstrations by Indigenous chef Flora Deacon, taste tests, activities for youth and much more. 

This is a free, all-ages event. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The festival will be held at the Georgeson Botanical Garden, located at 2180 West Tanana Drive on the ҹɫ¸£Àû Troth Yeddha’ Campus.

For more information, visit .

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