It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page for Friday December 26, 2025.
Today is Boxing Day. That’s a curious name for the day after Christmas.
It’s a public holiday in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Boxing Day developed during the Victorian era as a day of charity and gift-giving toward servants, tradespeople, and the less fortunate.
The holiday blends these origins with spending time with family, watching sports, and taking part in post-Christmas sales.
Boxing Day isn’t celebrated or traditionally recognized in the United States. December 26 is a normal workday for most Americans. However, the date got added attention this year.
A presidential executive order designated both December 24 and December 26 as federal holidays for federal workers. Don’t worry, you’ll still get mail delivery. The post office keeps its normal schedule.
Here are a few suggestions for things to do during winter break.
If you haven’t driven through Bright Up the Night at the State Fairgrounds, there’s still time. It runs 5 to 9 p.m. every night through New Years Eve. The advanced cost per car is $22. Tickets are available at alaskastatefair.org.
Join Black Birch Books for open mic night tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. All are welcome.
Cold country performs at Hatcher Lodge tomorrow from 4 to 7 p.m.
You can skate at the MTA Events Center tomorrow, Monday, or Tuesday.
Check the schedule. Skate for $5 and rent skates for $3 more.
Skeetawk downhill ski area in Hatcher Pass is open every day from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through January 4.
You can book a visit to the reindeer farm in Butte: Enjoy a 1-hour guided walking tour of the working farm. Meet and feed reindeer. See moose, yak, bison, alpacas, and elk along the way. A cup of feed is included with admission. Dress for the weather. Tours are wheelchair accessible. Book a tour at reindeerfarm.com.
The Musk Ox Farm offers a 1-hour guided tour for all ages at its Colony farm just north of Palmer. Explore the picturesque working farm and learn about musk oxen in a family-friendly setting. Make your reservation at muskoxfarm.org.
The big New Year’s Eve event is of course the fireworks at the Iditapark in Wasilla. Arrive at 7 p.m. for free giveaways, coffee, cocoa, cider, and more. The fireworks start at 8 p.m.
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This Page Two article was written and read by Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Friday December 26, 2025.