Alaska Nanooks Sell Tickets for Fifth Annual Gold Rush Event

Tickets are now on sale for the fifth annual Alaska Nanooks Gold Rush, a fundraising event scheduled for Saturday, April 10, 2027.

The event, which is presented by Usibelli Coal Mine, will take place at the Patty Center’s Alaska Airlines Gymnasium in Fairbanks. According to University of Alaska Fairbanks Athletics, all proceeds from the evening will support Nanook athletics programs.

The fundraiser combines community social engagement with high-stakes gambling elements, specifically through a unique reverse raffle. Unlike traditional raffles where a name is drawn to win, this format aims to leave a single ticket holder as the winner.

The evening’s schedule begins when doors open at 6 p.m., followed by the start of the reverse raffle at 6:45 p.m. To maintain the competitive nature of the drawing, organizers have limited the availability to just 300 tickets.

Each ticket serves a dual purpose by providing event admission and entry into the raffle. The mechanics of the drawing include several guaranteed wins and a final decision point for the remaining participants:

Every 25th ticket drawn will win $100.
When the raffle reaches the final five ticket holders, participants must choose to either split the grand prize or risk it all for the full amount.
The grand prize for the final winner is $5,000.

Participants do not need to be physically present at the gymnasium to win a prize. However, attendees must be at least 21 years of age, though those under 21 may participate if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The Alaska Nanooks have established a specific theme for the evening, encouraging guests to follow a “Fairbanks Fancy” dress code. Beyond the raffle, the event features food, drinks, games, prizes, and both silent and outcry auctions.

For local businesses or larger groups, corporate sponsorship tables are available. These tables accommodate eight people and include event admission, priority table placement, and sponsorship recognition throughout the night.

All ticket purchases for the event are non-refundable. Interested parties can secure their spots through the Alaska Nanooks Gold Rush Ticket Sales portal.

The event is scheduled for April 10, 2027.