Independence Day in Fairbanks

We found Hometown, USA. It is called Fairbanks, Alaska. Pioneer Park, located right in town, was the site of the celebration. Flags waving; hot dogs grilling; speeches ringing, rifles saluting, bands playing, people cheering; pipers piping; tug-of-warrers tugging; children parading – it was all here.

Pioneer Park is a lovely place. It has many permanent structures including an air museum, a riverboat, an indoor performance venue, a small outdoor performance venue, a little train running around the perimeter, a square dance hall, a street of historic log cabins turned into shops, and a nightly salmon bake. Middle America – in Alaska!

Fairbanks in the summer isn’t what you might think. It was 85 and sunny. People were canoeing, kayaking and (some crazy people) swimming in the Chena River, which runs next to the park.

Meanwhile we had our first real days off since we started our trek. Absolutely no scheduled events for either the fourth or the fifth. Most everyone hung around and relaxed – except for six people who drove up to the Arctic Circle just so they could say that they had crossed it and take some pictures. 200 miles (5.5 hours!) each way on marginal roads. I would say they were crazy except that if Judy and I hadn’t already been there we would have joined them.

So we are off to spend another lazy day at our own pace. We are going to the University of Alaska at Fairbanks (from which Judy already has a sweatshirt, thanks to Brian) to see some large animals – especially Musk Ox. Then we’ll see what else we feel like doing. Tomorrow is a busy day with a full schedule. I am sure Judy will fill you in on the details.