Fairbanks, Alaska — Baseball is known as a warm-weather sport, so it may come as a surprise that one of its most iconic games is played in Alaska.
Each summer, the Midnight Sun Game is hosted at Growden Memorial Park in Fairbanks. Because it is only 140 miles away from the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks never goes into dark mode at night during the summertime. While the sun sets late at night, it doesn’t go too far from the horizon, giving the evenings a long-lasting twilight.
Since 1906, the Midnight Sun game has celebrated this oddity. Starting at 10 p.m., the Alaska Goldpanners host a game without needing night lights. People across the country come to this game, which has become a bucket list experience for baseball fans. Many famous ballplayers, including Barry Bonds, Tom Seaver, Terry Francona, Jason Giambi, and Dave Winfield, have participated in this game.
In a recent video by Major League Baseball, Matt Monagen watches the Midnight Sun Game. He learns about the match’s history and experiences, which makes it so special.
Based on MLB’s pursuit of playing games in unique locations, it seems possible that some Major League clubs could face each other someday in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Click here to learn more about the lore of the Midnight Sun game. If you’re a baseball fan, consider donating to the Goldpanners, as they’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Image/Video Credits: Major League Baseball
