The Alaska Turkey Bomb: A Thanksgiving Tradition in Rural Alaska

Delivering Thanksgiving Joy From the Skies

In the remote wilderness of Alaska, where grocery stores are a distant luxury, some residents receive a special Thanksgiving surprise each year. Esther Keim, a local resident, takes to the skies to drop frozen turkeys to those living off the grid in south-central Alaska, ensuring they can enjoy a holiday meal.

Bringing Thanksgiving to Remote Alaska

In a state where 80% of the land is inaccessible by road, residents in remote areas depend on small planes or snowmobiles for transportation. This annual turkey drop initiative aims to spread joy and provide Thanksgiving dinners to those who would otherwise go without.

The Heartwarming Origin Story

Esther Keim’s inspiration for the Alaska Turkey Bomb dates back to her childhood when a family friend would airdrop turkeys to her family and neighbors during the holidays. Keim now carries on this tradition by delivering turkeys to remote cabins where road access is nonexistent.

A Growing Tradition of Generosity

Started as a small-scale effort, the Alaska Turkey Bomb has expanded through word of mouth and social media. Keim, with the help of donations, now distributes dozens of turkeys each year, bringing Thanksgiving cheer to families living in the Alaskan wilderness.

Spreading Thanksgiving Joy Across Alaska

Keim’s annual turkey drop covers vast distances, with deliveries reaching up to 100 miles from her base north of Anchorage. Despite the challenges posed by Alaska’s unpredictable weather, she remains committed to ensuring that no one misses out on a Thanksgiving meal.

A Heartwarming Gesture of Kindness

Every turkey drop is met with gratitude and excitement from the recipients, who appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness behind this unique holiday tradition. Keim’s goal is to expand the initiative into a nonprofit organization to reach even more remote communities across Alaska.