5 things to do in Anchorage this weekend

Jan. 4—We've reached the first weekend of 2024. And regardless of whether you're in the mood for a laugh, some tunes or outdoor activity, you have several options in Anchorage. Here are five things to do this weekend, along with a selection of First Friday gatherings.

RagDolls

9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; Matanuska Brewing, 2830 C St.

This all-female Aerosmith tribute band hits the stage for two nights, delivering the band's classic hits like "Sweet Emotion," "Dream On," and ... "Rag Doll!" Tickets for the show are $20.

Westchester Lagoon Family Skate

1-3 p.m. Saturday; Westchester Lagoon, 1824 W. 15th Ave.

Even if you had plenty of family time over the holidays, the Westchester family skate is a great way to spend a winter afternoon. Be sure to catch the first of these free events in the new year complete with warming barrels, free hot chocolate and music.

Scared Scriptless

8 p.m. Saturday; 49th State Brewing, 717 W. Third Ave.

Has the first week of 2024 already left you needing a laugh? The Scared Scriptless improv troupe might be the remedy. The laughs start at 8 p.m. Saturday with doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18.

Whistling Swan 30th Anniversary Concert

4 p.m. Sunday; Discovery Theatre, 621 W. Sixth Ave.

Mike McCormick has been bringing music to local stages for three decades with his Whistling Swan productions. This weekend's 30th anniversary concert continues that trend. Four artists who have been regular solo performers at Whistling Swan shows — John Gorka, Lucy Kaplansky, Cliff Eberhardt and Patty Larkin — will play together as "On a Winter's Night." Tickets are $50.

Anchorage Festival of Music presents Snow Music

2 p.m./4 p.m. Sunday; UAA Recital Hall, 3700 Alumni Drive

With two Sunday afternoon performances, there are multiple opportunities to experience poems, stories and music about the wonder of snow. The show features music by Howard Blake from the animated classic "The Snowman," "Winter" from Vivaldi's Four Seasons and a reading of Lynne Rae Perkins' "Snow Music," where the words transform into melodies. Tickets are $15 or $10 for students/youth.

[Anchorage Museum offering free general admission to Alaska Natives]

First Friday

Anchorage Museum: Free admission featuring Duke Russell as part of the Alaska Comic Art Series and docent-led history talks on Unangax̂ and Sugpiaq objects, the early days of the Alaska Railroad and Iñupiaq artist George Ahgupuk, 625 C St., 6-9 p.m.

Sevigny Studio: Featuring metal artist Charles Ross, 312 G St., 6-9 p.m.

Tiny Gallery: Featuring tiny art, pieces smaller than 3 inches by 3 inches by 3 inches, from local artists, 706 W. Fourth Ave., 4-8 p.m.

Midnight Sun Brewing: Featuring artist Scott Clendaniel and release of a fresh cask of Wind Break Belgian style Dubbel conditioned on cocoa nibs and fresh cinnamon sticks, 8111 Dimond Hook Drive, 5-8 p.m.

IGCA: Featuring the second edition of State Proof, curated by Joe Carr, Karinna Gomez and Jonathan S. Green, 427 D St., 5-8 p.m.

Skinny Raven: Featuring Jazzy Jewelry Designs, 800 H St., 4-6 p.m.

Stephan Fine Arts: Featuring live painting by Adam Shea, Sophie Green, Jamie Janko and Paolo and live music by The SpeNerds, 939 W. Fifth Ave., 6-8:30 p.m.

AK Cycle Chic: Featuring artist and musician Becky Kotter, 908 W. Northern Lights Blvd., 5-7 p.m.

Sara's Gift Cache: Featuring Sew Peppi and Angelica's Odds and Ends, 410 W. Fourth Ave., 5-8 p.m.

Check our online calendar for more event listings at adn.com/calendar.