SEARHC wants to help Wrangell stay healthy — and will provide information and advice in support of that goal at the annual Wellness Fair 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Nolan Center.

“We have about 25 exhibitors signed up,” said Alicia Gillen, executive assistant at SEARHC in Wrangell. In addition to multiple informational exhibits by different departments at the regional health care provider, the Wrangell Volunteer Fire Department, Hospice of Wrangell, the Irene Ingle Public Library and other community service providers will have stations set up in the large room at the Nolan Center.

“We’re looking to promote health,” Gillen said.

That also includes some fun and games — and prizes.

Fair attendees who get their “Passport to Wellness” stamped by at least 20 informational booths will be entered in a chance to win a bike — one for adults and one for children.

There will be free bicycle helmets, too, but the quantity is limited and the helmets will be given away until they run out. There will be prize drawings during the morning event.

“I would encourage people to show up,” Gillen said. Not just for the bike helmets but for the health information.

Flu vaccinations are available for people who want to protect themselves and their family this fall and winter, and a comprehensive panel of blood tests also will be available for fairgoers.

The fair is free.

The blood test will cost $165 and will require people to fast for at least eight hours before the blood draw.

“We would highly encourage pre-registration,” Gillen said of the flu shots and blood tests. Anyone can register online at searhc.org/wellness-fairs-2026 and scroll down to Wrangell, or call SEARHC at 907-874-7000 to book an appointment.

Walk-ins for the blood test will be accepted without pre-registration between 10 a.m. and noon Oct. 17, and anytime for a flu shot.

One of the most popular tables at the annual fair is the Teddy Bear Wellness Check, where children can bring in their favorite plush animal for a free medical checkup with a healthcare professional, Gillen said.

The idea is to get kids comfortable with visiting a medical office so that it will not seem so scary when it is for real, she said.