National Alaska Day

Each year on October 18, Alaskans observe Alaska Day, sometimes referred to as National Alaska Day, to commemorate the formal transfer of the territory from Russia to the United States in 1867.

History of Alaska Day

The story begins in 1867, when the United States purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million. While the treaty was signed in March, the actual symbolic handover in Sitka occurred on October 18 of that year. On that day, U.S. troops marched to Castle Hill, lowered the Russian flag, and raised the U.S. flag in a formal ceremony, marking the beginning of Alaska’s new role in American governance.

Over time, Alaska Day became an official observance. The territorial legislature adopted it as a holiday in 1917, and it continues to be recognized as a state holiday in Alaska. In Sitka, in particular, the holiday is celebrated with reenactments, parades, historical pageants, dances, and community events that reflect both local heritage and state pride.

Why is Alaska Day important?

Alaska Day is more than a commemoration of a historical transaction—it’s a day that invites reflection on identity, colonial legacy, and cultural memory in Alaska. The day encapsulates a moment when political control shifted, but in many ways it also marks a deeper, more complicated transformation: how indigenous traditions, settler institutions, and state development have interwoven over the centuries.

For many Alaskans, the day provides an opportunity to celebrate the resilience of communities, the beauty of the land, and the social progress the state has made. At the same time, it also prompts conversations about the meaning of land, governance, and reconciliation with Native peoples. Some Indigenous voices critique the holiday as a celebration of dispossession, and propose reframing or renaming it to acknowledge historical injustices.

• It marks a turning point in Alaska’s political history
• It anchors civic memory and local traditions
• It gives Alaskans a moment to express state pride
• It invites dialogue about colonial legacies and indigenous rights
• It can serve as a bridge between past narratives and future reconciliation

How to Observe Alaska Day

If you’re in Alaska (or an admirer of Alaska), observing Alaska Day can be both festive and thoughtful. In Sitka, the heart of the holiday, you’ll find parades, flag‑raising reenactments, period costume balls, concerts, historical tours, and community meals. These events bring people together to connect with the past and enjoy the present. Schools often let students leave early or close for the day; state offices may close, giving public servants a chance to participate in events.

Beyond attending public events, you can engage personally by learning more about Alaska’s Native cultures, supporting Indigenous authors, or exploring Alaskan art, music, and stories. Reflecting on the complex history of land, identity, and belonging can give the day deeper meaning. If you’re local, visiting historical sites in Sitka or contributing to cultural organizations can be powerful ways to commemorate.

• Attend a parade or reenactment in Sitka
• Visit local heritage museums or historical sites
• Read or share works by Alaska Native writers or historians
• Reflect or host conversations about colonial history and reconciliation
• Support cultural or environmental organizations in Alaska

Alaska Day Dates Table