Russian Orthodox Christmas, January 7, includes the evening Starring Ceremony. A choir follows a parishioner carrying a star to sing at the homes of church members. Whale Fest Kodiak (tel. 907/539-2266; www.whalefestkodiak.com), over 2 weeks in late April and early May, marks the arrival of the entire population of gray whales as they migrate, as well as the presence of killer and humpback whales near Kodiak. The festival includes whale-watching excursions, natural history events, and community activities.

The 5-day Kodiak Crab Festival (tel. 907/486-5557), over Memorial Day weekend (late May), is a big event, including a parade, a king crab feed, a carnival, many fun community events, the solemn blessing of the fleet, and a memorial service for fishermen and mariners lost at sea.

On Labor Day weekend (early Sept), the Kodiak State Fair and Rodeo has all kinds of small-town contests, music, and family entertainment, including bull riding, barrel racing, and a horse show. Call the visitor bureau for information.

The bureau also maintains an extensive community calendar online at www.kodiak.org.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.