The annual Christmas and Holiday Open House at the Alaska Governor’s Mansion is back this year, and doors will open at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7, for a meet-and-greet with Gov. Mike Dunleavy, and First Lady Rose.
“Rose and I are looking forward to finally hosting this holiday celebration after canceling last year,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “The past holiday season was hard for all of us. We are grateful to be able to host this special tradition once again, in person. As we gather with our loved ones this season, be sure to remember all who are spending the holidays away from their families this season.”
[Governor’s mansion tree arrives in Juneau]
The event is open to the public but because of COVID-19 protocols, each of the 11,000 cookies to be served at the event will be individually wrapped, according to the governor’s office.
Entertainers from the Juneau community will be performing, including Tom Locher on the piano and Vox Borealis Acapella Group from the Juneau Lyric Opera Association.
According to the governor’s office, the first open house was held by Territorial Gov. Walter Eli Clark and his family on New Year’s Day 1913. The annual tradition has been held every year since, apart from two years during World War II and last year due to COVID-19, the office said.
Know and Go
What: Christmas and Holiday Open House at the Governor’s Residence
When: 3-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 7.
Where: Alaska Governor’s Mansion, 716 Calhoun Ave.
People with special accessibility needs are invited to contact Maxine Lucero at (907) 465-3500, to arrange entry from 2:30-3:00 p.m.
