Anything after Memorial Day (last Monday in May) is tough. A lot of schools get out, and families are planning their vacations. Having the Fest near then causes their Fest travel budget to compete with their vacation budget.
For me, while the kids are in school, it's not disastrous to be gone for a few days. Once they're out... I'm required to stick around!
OK let me rephrase this. Its the first weekend in June or there is probably no ak fest..
In June I might at least have a hint of a chance to be able to go. A slim chance is better than none.