In Alaska, hygge blends the essence of coziness, warmth, and togetherness with the unique environment and lifestyle of our state, especially given the long, cold winters and remote locations. It’s about creating a feeling of comfort and joy in the midst of the harsh conditions, and it can be expressed in a way that’s both practical and deeply connected to nature. Here’s how hygge looks in Alaska:

1. Cozy, Warm Spaces

• Warmth indoors is central to hygge in Alaska. Think crackling wood stoves, fireplaces, or radiant floor heating in cabins or homes. Soft, plush blankets and thick woolen socks to keep the cold at bay are essential. Candles and can easily create this ambiance.

• Lighting is key—lots of candles or soft lighting to offset the dark, long winter months. Alaskans often embrace low light as a way to create a soothing atmosphere. In places with long nights, the gentle glow of candles can be especially comforting. I use white twinkle lighting all winter long, even after the holiday season!

2. Gathering Around a Fire

• Bonfires or indoor hearths—whether it’s an outdoor fire pit under the Northern Lights or a cozy fire inside, fires are a huge part of Alaskan hygge. Gathering with family or friends around a fire, with mugs of hot cocoa or homemade soup, is a perfect example of hygge. Many restaurants and bars also have fire pits if you do not have one of your own!

• Saunas are a popular part of Alaskan life, especially in rural and remote areas. Taking time to unwind and share a sauna with loved ones creates a space of relaxation and warmth that embodies hygge.

3. Connecting with Nature

• The Alaskan wilderness plays a huge role in hygge there. After a day of skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking, coming back to a warm home with a view of snow-covered mountains or frozen lakes can feel incredibly peaceful. Getting outside no matter where you live and cozying up in a sweater and a scarf can give you a great excuse to slow down during the winter season.

• Stargazing under the clear Alaskan skies, particularly if you're lucky enough to witness the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), brings a sense of awe and wonder, fostering that deep sense of contentment found in hygge. Fresh air and a camera can inspire you wherever you are located in the world. For Alaskan’s we do not see the stars in summer, so, appreciating them in the winter with the chill is breathtaking.

4. Homemade Comforts

• Home-cooked meals like hearty stews, fresh-baked bread, or fish chowder (often from locally caught ingredients like salmon or halibut) are the foundation of hygge in Alaska. Sipping hot drinks like locally made coffee or cocoa, or enjoying a glass of whiskey or a craft beer by the fire, adds to the cozy vibe. Getting creative with mock-tails and hot ciders is also a fun challenge!

• Baking is another comforting tradition, especially during the winter. The smell of freshly baked goods like cinnamon rolls, cookies, or sourdough bread can fill a home with warmth and contentment. I like to cook my favorite recipe linked here: Health Nut.

5. Slow, Mindful Living

• Slower pace of life—Alaskans often embrace a slower, more mindful lifestyle, especially in remote areas. This could mean leisurely mornings with hot tea or coffee, taking time to savor meals, or spending time with loved ones without the rush of the outside world. Unplug, sit in a cafe solo or bring a coffee to go with your favorite audio book. This will fill your cup more than endless scrolling.

• Enjoying activities like reading a good book by the fire, knitting, or doing puzzles can also be part of the hygge experience in Alaska. Embracing the present moment and enjoying the simple pleasures is key.

6. Community and Connection

• Spending time with close friends or family becomes even more important in the long winters, where people may feel isolated. Hygge in Alaska can mean cozy gatherings with board games, potlucks, or just sitting around talking. I know planning a face to face interaction can take energy, but, you will feel energized for days afterwards!

• In tight-knit Alaskan communities, there’s also a spirit of sharing resources and helping neighbors, which can create a deep sense of connection and comfort that aligns with the essence of hygge. Giving your neighbors a holiday gift will warm you up and brighten their day.

7. Embracing the Outdoors in Winter

• In Alaska, winter activities can be part of the hygge experience, too. Going for a winter walk in the crisp air, enjoying a snowshoe trek, or even cross-country skiing are ways to embrace the outdoors. Afterward, returning to the warmth of home, perhaps with a hot drink, reflects the balance between the cold, outdoor world and the cozy, warm refuge of indoors. For me, this is the BEST part of Alaska, playing outside, seeing the wildlife, getting a small chill, then heading indoors to reap the rewards of your efforts, a cozy home.

8. Solitude and Reflection

For some, hygge in Alaska may also look like solitude—enjoying quiet moments by yourself, whether it's journaling by the window, listening to the wind howl outside, or just taking time for personal reflection. The beauty of Alaska's remote locations and natural landscapes can foster a deeper sense of calm and contentment that enhances the hygge experience. You don’t have to be busy being busy, scheduling alone time is essential to reflecting on gratitude to build yourself up. Gratitude is everything! Happy Hygge.