The holiday season is the time of traditions, and here in Alaska we have plenty of them. One of our most beloved traditions is this highly-anticipated holiday festival that takes place in Palmer every year. Colony Christmas is the "holiday edition" of a festival that started more than eight decades ago. Every December, this tight-knit community comes out and celebrates the holiday season the old-fashioned way. It's both a celebration of the holiday season and of simpler times. Every Alaskan should experience the charms of this extraordinary event at some point, and this year is the perfect time to do just that. Read on to learn what makes this festival so incredible.

Every year as the holidays approach, the small town of Palmer celebrates a unique piece of Alaskan history by throwing an epic Christmas festival. Colony Christmas came about as an extension of Colony Days, an 82-year-old festival that locals have cherished for generations.

During the Depression, the government was looking for ways to help families that were suffering most during this time. Over 200 families were chosen from states in the midwest to move to a farming community north of Anchorage. This community was responsible for the creation of Palmer as we know it today.

Colony Christmas is an annual festival that has the dual purpose of celebrating both the holidays and Palmer's unique history. This year it will take place from December 7th to the 9th, and you don't want to miss it.

This old-fashioned celebration boasts all sorts of fun for the entire family. Enjoy craft fairs, sleigh rides, pictures with Santa, and so much more. The entire weekend is chock full of activities from beginning to end.

One of the festival's highlight that you'll definitely want to check out is the Gingerbread House Contest. Awards are given for a variety of categories based on creativity, appearance, and People's Choice. It's the perfect opportunity to try your hand at crafting the perfect Gingerbread House.

Be sure to plan on attending the Parade of Lights that will take place at 5:00 pm on December 8th. During the parade, incredible floats and marchers will make their way through town to the sound of classic holiday tunes.

Come out and celebrate the pioneers who were responsible for creating the lovely community of Palmer, and immerse yourself in holiday cheer while you're at it. Colony Christmas is a classic event that must not be missed. For more information, you can visit their Facebook page here.

Check out the brief video below for a quick look into all that this epic festival entails.

Have you had the pleasure of attending Colony Christmas? This is one Alaska tradition that is here to stay for years to come. Take a look at our list of the 11 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Alaska for more awesome holiday destinations.