KODIAK, AK, August 24, 2026 — A familiar seasonal tradition in Kodiak is getting a beautiful new look this year.
For decades, colorful banners have lined the light poles throughout downtown Kodiak and along Mill Bay Road, welcoming visitors and cruise ship passengers while adding a vibrant touch to the streets for locals and signaling the arrival of summer. The banners have become a familiar part of the season, bringing color and character to the community throughout the summer months.
The original banner project dates back to the 1990s, this will be the third update to the banners. More than simply a beautification project, it continues a Kodiak tradition that has been part of the community for more than three decades. Local Businessmen Ron Accaregui, Ben Ardinger & the late Ken Warner were part of the original team of Chamber Members & Board Members that started the Banner Project for our community. Original banners were designed by artist Bonnie Dillard, the most recent banners were designed by Brianna (Gibbs) Cooper in 2017.
The current project was made possible through a collaborative effort between City of Kodiak Parks and Recreation Director Heather Bolen, Discover Kodiak Executive Director Sabrina Hicks, and the Kodiak Chamber of Commerce, Ellen Simeonoff who worked together to bring new life to the longstanding banner program.
The new collection features artwork created by local Sugpiaq Artist Hanna Agasuuq Sholl of Fine Arts by Hanna Sholl, whose designs bring a fresh and vibrant look to Kodiak’s streets while celebrating the beauty, culture, and character of the community.
A total of 60 new banners will be produced for the project and will replace the aging banners that have decorated Kodiak’s streets for over 30 years.
While the artwork is new, the spirit behind the project remains the same: creating a vibrant and warm welcome for residents and visitors while celebrating the unique character of Kodiak.
We currently have 11 designs and 9 more are in the works and should be completed this year. All 33 of the new banners can be spotted throughout Kodiak today!
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