Petersburg gets an average of 100 inches of rain per year being at the heart of the Tongass National Forest. The month of May has traditionally been the safest month to have an outdoor wedding, so we are hoping for the best. I would make sure to look at the weather prior to coming and plan accordingly. Tempertures usually range from 47-61 degrees but who knows we might get that one lucky week in the 70s!
We are planning to have an outside ceremony and an inside reception. If it does happen to rain, we will have to decide whether to pull out the good ole umbrellas and tents OR have the ceremony inside at the Son's of Norway, where the reception is. We will make sure to keep everyone informed.
If staying downtown everything you need is within walking distance including apparel stores, art galleries, museum, a grocery store, coffee shop, hardware store, restaurants, etc. The wedding reception is also within walking distance. If you want to do some individual exploring a car would be nice to go "out the road" where there are many hidden gems. However, there is a lot to see in town. Depending on the location of where you stay you may need transportation so make sure to keep this in mind when looking! If staying at one of our hotels they provide transportation to and from the airport.
Mayfest, May 15th-17th, is every locals favorite holiday in town where we celebrate the signing of Norway’s Constitution in 1814- as the small little Norwegian town that we are. We do this by, of course, dressing up as Vikings and drinking beer out of animal horns. Main street gets closed off and we hold a parade, street food and games, set up beer tents and if you are "lucky" the Vikings will steal you from work or the street and throw you in the Viking bus and force beer upon you:) Jarrell had his share of beer and mead poured on him by my lovely friend Carolyn in the bus, watch out for her. This happens to be the weekend before our wedding if anyone is planning an extended trip! https://www.petersburg.org/festivals-and-events/the-little-norway-festival/
There are many wild animals on the island of Petersburg! However, to see a bear or moose this usually takes some searching on the back roads. Sometimes we get a surprise bear that shows up in town. Not to be scared of, though. Deer are everywhere, especially in my moms tulip and raspberry patches. Look up, and you'll see an eagle! and if we are lucky, orcas or humpback whales may pass through the Wrangell Narrows which can be seen in many parts of the town. and lots of sea lions! If you really want to see whales I would recommend booking a whale watching tour and its always fun to get out on the water.
This is a more tricky question. Right now (summer 2025) the salmon season has been emergently closed to sport fishing due to low salmon counts. This will be something to look into before packing your poles or booking a fishing trip- which is a great option, but make sure the type of fish you want to catch is in open season. Other options like casting/fly fishing from land are still available. Also, don't forget to visit the Fish and Game website for laws and regulations.
All of this information will be added to the website, under "schedule", closer to the wedding date. We will also be sending out proper invitations with more information. The website currently is to assist friends and family with travel information :)
Yes please! We did not add all kids to the RSVPs but we would love for them to come.
Petersburg weddings are fairly nontraditional. You will see most of the locals in anything from causal wear to formal wear- maybe even a few fisherman coming from off the boat, not preferred, but welcomed. We want you to be comfortable, so wear whatever you feel best in.
starting May 7th, 2025 it is essential to have either a Star ID card or a passport for any air travel.