2026 Festival
September 10-13
Thursday, September 10
7:00pm: Keynote Talk- “Island Life: Endemic species and
biogeography across the Alexander Archipelago” by Haines wildlife biologist Natalie Dawson
Slide show- “Tongass Tails: Terrestrial Mammals of the Tongass” by photographer Robin Roberts
Enjoy images by Petersburg’s own Robin Roberts of the Tongass' different land mammals, large and small, and a few stories about some of their behaviors.
Wright Auditorium
Friday, September 11
10:45am-4pm: Stikine River "Migration Corridors" field trip
with Natalie Dawson
Join wildlife biologist Natalie Dawson on a trip up the Stikine River with Alaska Vistas to learn about this unique habitat and the role it plays in wildlife migrations.
10am-3pm (12-1 Lunch Break): Stamp Carving and Printing Class
with Andrea Weathers
Learn carving techniques and print design inspired by the Tongass
Parks & Rec.
Advance registration required, ages 16+, minimum 6 students, maximum 16, $50 (including all supplies) + $1.50 service fee
non-refundable unless class is canceled
5-7pm: Artists reception for "Crossings"
Annabelle Baker Memorial Art Show
Clausen Memorial Museum
Annabelle Baker Memorial Art Show
"Crossings" September 11-26 Clausen Memorial Museum
Saturday, September 12
8 - 10am: Signs of Wildlife Hike with Natalie Dawson
Join wildlife biologist Natalie Dawson on a family-friendly hike out the road to look for signs of wildlife. Wear boots and bring water and snacks.
Location TBA, meet at Library to carpool. Family friendly
1 - 4pm: Living with Bears Mini Fair
with Abby Mcallister and Frank Robbins, ADF&G
Learn all about bears on Mitkof Island and how our community can live peacefully alongside them at this family friendly event. Don’t miss ADF&G’s Frank Robbins’ special Trail Cam Highlights presentation at 3:00 pm!
Parks & Rec. Family friendly
Sunday, September 13
1 - 3pm: Naturalist's Walking Tour with Sunny Rice and Joni Johnson
Join tour creator Sunny Rice and forest ecologist Joni Johnson for a “live” version of the Rainforest Festival’s audio walking tour. Follow a 2.6 mile loop starting downtown and learn about the geology, plants, birds, and marine life of our area, with a bit of poetry mixed in.
Meet at Eagle's Roost Park
Thanks to our festival partners and sponsors!
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Petersburg Parks and Recreation
The Waterside Suite
The rain forest and ocean environment surrounds us 365 days a year. Each season with its own flavor, feel, and reason to explore. The Rainforest Festival Committee may have pop-up events throughout the year to celebrate the place we live. Please, check in for changes and additions.