Alaska Day

Alaska Day is a state holiday observed on October 18 each year in the state of Alaska. It commemorates the formal transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States on October 18, 1867. The transfer ceremony took place at Castle Hill in Sitka (then known as New Archangel), where the Russian flag was lowered and the American flag was raised for the first time.

Alaska Day celebrates both the purchase of Alaska and the rich cultural heritage of the state. It is a paid holiday for state employees in Alaska, though private businesses may remain open. The celebration is especially prominent in Sitka, where historical reenactments and community events bring the story of the transfer to life.

The history of Alaska Day begins with the Treaty of Cession, negotiated by U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward in 1867. The United States purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million, approximately 2 cents per acre. At the time, many Americans ridiculed the purchase, calling it "Seward's Folly" and "Seward's Icebox".

The formal transfer ceremony took place on October 18, 1867, at Castle Hill in Sitka, the capital of Russian America. Russian soldiers lowered the Russian flag while American troops raised the Stars and Stripes. The ceremony was attended by both Russian and American officials.

Alaska remained a U.S. territory for nearly a century before becoming the 49th state on January 3, 1959. The discovery of gold in the Klondike in the 1890s and later oil on the North Slope proved that Seward's purchase was far from folly — it was one of the greatest land deals in history.

Alaska Day has been observed as a state holiday since 1917, making it one of Alaska's longest-standing celebrations.

Flag-Raising Ceremony at Castle Hill: The centerpiece of Alaska Day celebrations in Sitka is a historical reenactment of the 1867 transfer ceremony at Castle Hill, where participants dress in period costumes and raise the American flag.

Alaska Day Festival in Sitka: A multi-day festival in Sitka featuring parades, costume balls, historical exhibits, and community events. The festival typically runs for several days around October 18.

Russian Heritage Events: Given Alaska's Russian colonial history, many celebrations include Russian cultural performances, traditional food, and exhibits about the Russian-American period.

Historical Reenactments: Actors portray key figures from the transfer ceremony, including Russian and American officials, bringing the historical moment to life for spectators.

Community Gatherings: Throughout Alaska, communities hold potlucks, educational programs, and school events to teach about the state's unique history.