Art and Culture

A common question we hear is, “What do you do here in the winter?” The short answer is simple. We make art. A slightly longer answer includes dance, theater, live music, quilting, painting, knitting, carving, and weaving. Creativity is a big part of daily life in Ketchikan.

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Our rainy climate plays a role in shaping the arts and culture scene. During the fall and winter months, the community enjoys regular theater and dance performances, including an annual presentation of The Nutcracker. Since 1986, the Wearable Art Show has highlighted local costume designers and makers with imaginative, one of a kind creations. Winter also brings The Monthly Grind, a long running community variety show featuring local musicians, dancers, speakers, and performers.

As spring arrives and the skunk cabbage begins to bloom, the creative energy continues. Art has been part of Ketchikan’s story since the first woven cedar bark basket, and it remains an important way the community connects and shares its culture with visitors.

For a deeper look at Ketchikan’s arts scene, explore The Artists, a Telly Award winning and Emmy nominated film, and check our Calendar of Events for upcoming performances, exhibits, and community events.