09/25/2026
# # # Northern Lights Season Begins in Alaska
The Northern Lights season is getting underway in Alaska, with the longer and darker nights of fall creating excellent opportunities to see the aurora. Fairbanks is one of Alaska's most popular bases for aurora viewing, thanks to its location under the auroral oval and relatively low light pollution.
The aurora season generally runs from late August through April, with clear, dark nights offering the best opportunities for viewing. For travelers planning an Alaska vacation, fall and winter provide a wonderful chance to combine Northern Lights viewing with other Alaska experiences.
If you are hoping to see the aurora in 2026 or 2027, we recommend planning ahead and allowing several nights in the Fairbanks area to increase your chances of a successful sighting.