When did the Alaska Day observed in United States of America start?
About Alaska Day observed in United States of America Holiday
In the great US state of Alaska, the 18th of October is a special day—Alaska Day! Established in 1867, this day commemorates the day Alaska officially became part of the United States of America. It is a day of both celebration and reflection for Alaskans.
Each year, people from across the state come together to honor the importance of Alaska Day. Every Alaskan has their own way of celebrating the day, from holding barbecues in their backyards, to attending parades, to visiting historic sites. Most importantly, however, there’s a strong feeling of community and shared history.
As the great John F. Kennedy once said, “The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty.” On this day, and every day, Alaskans are proud to celebrate the history, culture, and traditions that make their state special. Today, we mark the day of Alaska’s entering the union and remind ourselves that that day is best celebrated as citizens of a great nation and a great state.
Alaska Day observed in United States of America
Alaska Day is a state holiday observed in the U.S. state of Alaska on October 18. It commemorates the formal transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States, which happened on October 18, 1867. Although the formal transfer of lands did not trigger a large public celebration, it marked a major change in Alaska’s history. Alaska Day marks the historic moment when Alaska officially became part of the United States.
History and Origin
Alaska Day is a natural outgrowth from the momentous event of October 18, 1867 when the United States Secretary of State William H. Seward formally purchased the land of Alaska from Russia at a cost of 7.2 million dollars. This event was finally signed on March 30, 1867, and was officially concluded on October 18 of the same year, when the signing ceremony was held in Sitka. The land in question consisted of 586,412 square miles, and the U.S. referred to it as the Alaska Territory.
Prior to the formal transfer from Russia on October 18, 1867, the land of Alaska was occupied by the native Athabascan and Yup’ik tribes of the region, as well as those tribes, peoples, and merchants from Europe, North America, and Asia that migrated or moved to the region. Russian fur trappers, traders, and missionaries had been the predominant settlers of the land for many decades before the transfer which led to the introduction of the Russian Orthodox Church and other Russian cultural influences that still remain in the region.
In 1959, the Alaskan legislature declared October 18th to be an official holiday, and it is now commemorated every year in the US state of Alaska. It is a non-juried public holiday, meaning that all state and federal offices as well as most businesses are closed.
Significance and Meaning
For the people living in Alaska, the holiday of Alaska Day is significant as it marks an important milestone in the history of their state. To many, it is a day of celebration and a reminder of the state’s unique identity and heritage. Alaska Day honors the official transfer of the vast Alaskan region from Russia to the United States. It is a powerful symbol of Alaska’s independence and is an acknowledgement of the significance of the day to Alaskans.
Moreover, it is critical in understanding the relationship between Russia and the United States although there has been various political tensions which decades later led to the Cold War. Before the transfer of Alaska, the United States and Russia had maintained a strong relationship and signed treaties, which facilitated the exchange of resources and knowledge between the two nations.
Traditions and Celebrations
Alaska Day is an important state holiday and there is a wide range of events and activities that are organized in various parts of Alaska to mark the occasion. The festivities include a variety of cultural activities such as the Alaskan Native singing and dancing performances. Other activities include parades, barbecues, and fireworks.
Many cities and towns around Alaska host their own Alaska Day parades and events. The largest celebration takes place in Sitka, which is the former capital of the Alaska Territory and the site of the original transfer. The Sitka celebration includes a parade, a speech from the Mayors and an Annual Alaska Day Ball.
Geographical Spread
The holiday of Alaska Day is most prominently observed in the US state of Alaska. Besides, some other Alaskan communities may observe the holiday in other parts of the United States. For example, in Anchorage, the holiday of Alaska Day is not widely celebrated, but there are still events held to mark the occasion and join in the festive spirit.
On Alaska Day, many people visit with family and friends. Other events, such as concerts and fireworks displays, are common throughout Alaskan cities. Alaskans honor the whole of state and its cultural heritage by attending cultural events, attending church services, and spending time with family and friends.
Modern Day Observations
In modern-day Alaska, Alaska Day is still widely celebrated and is considered to be one of the most important holidays in the year. While much of the traditional customs and traditions such as the parades and firework displays are still present, there have been a few modern twists to the celebration.
For example, the Alaska State Legislature has introduced several resolutions in recent years to draw attention to the important role of Alaska Native Traditions and Events in the state’s history. This includes designating October 18th as an Alaska Native Recognition Day and setting aside funds for a Native Cultural Celebration for Alaska Day.
Moreover, many Alaskans use the day to express their pride in their state and to reflect on the state’s history and unique culture. This includes attending cultural events, taking part in public ceremonies, or simply gathering with friends and family to celebrate the holiday.
Interesting Facts or Trivia
• The purchase price for Alaska was 7.2 million dollars, which translates to about 2 cents per acre.
• October 18, 2018 marked the 151st anniversary of the Alaska Purchase from Russia.
• The first Alaska Day celebration was held in Sitka in 1917.
• Alaska is the largest state in the United States, over twice the size of Texas and five times the size of the UK.
• Alaska has 6,640 miles of coastline, more than any other state in the United States.
• Alaska became the 49th state of the United States of America on January 3, 1959.
• Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, from picturesque mountains to breathtaking glaciers.
• The capital of Alaska is Juneau, located on the Gastineau Channel in the southeastern portion of the state.
• Alaska is home to more than forty species of fish and more than 400 species of birds.
• Alaska is the only state with a Department of Fish and Game, rather than having a Department of Wildlife.
• Moose, black bears, humpback whales, and bald eagles are just a few of the native animals that inhabit the state of Alaska.
• Alaska hosts the country’s highest peak (Mount McKinley), the state’s largest lake (Iliamna Lake), and the longest glacier (; Malaspina Glacier).
• The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is the country’s largest land wildlife refuge, home to more than 200 species of birds, 40 species of mammals and four species of fish.
Holiday Wishes
• May the spirit of Alaska Day bring peace to all Alaskans.
• Let’s come together and honor the rich history of Alaska.
• Wishing you a joyous Alaska Day!
• May your heart feel surrounded by love on this special day.
• Wishing a very happy Alaska Day to everyone!
Holiday Messages
• Alaska Day is a reminder of the amazing strength of our great state.
• Grateful for the courage and vision that led to the momentous event of the Alaska Purchase.
• A heartfelt thank you to all Alaskans for making Alaska a great place to live.
• Today is a day to celebrate the amazing beauty of our great state—Alaska!
• Let us remember our rich history as we enjoy this special day.
Holiday Quotes
• “Alaska is a land of ignorance, with a climate of fifth-grader.” -John McPhee
• “The difference between Alaska and the rest of the United States? Here you live an adventure first and then brag about it afterwards.” -Bob Reiss
• “It’s great to come back to Alaska. Whenever you come up here, you just feel at home.” -Sarah Palin
• “Alaska is an amazing place like nowhere else on Earth” -Kopchak Shebukh
• “Alaska is the only country I have come to love. It is very wild and untamed. It has the most amazing landscapes and people. I love the peace and serenity of the place.” -John K. Templeton
Other Popular Holiday Info
The holiday of Alaska Day is not only celebrated in the US state of Alaska, it is widely celebrated in surrounding countries and states such as Canada, British Columbia, and Washington. People from these areas often visit Alaska to celebrate the occasion.
In order to honor the celebration, many museums, libraries, and cultural centers organize educational activities and events. Similarly, several businesses also offer special discounts and promotions. Additionally, many schools also hold special activities such as essay writing competitions and quiz competitions.
In honor of Alaska Day, the Alaskan Governor also issues a ‘Proclamation of Alaska Day’ every year. This serves as a reminder of the day’s historic significance and encourages Alaskans to celebrate and honor the state’s unique history.
Alaska Day can be an ideal time to explore the beauty of the state and experience a unique blend of the traditional and cultural legacies. The day can also be a good time to recognize the state’s culturally enriched lifestyle and its diverse population.
Alaska Day, no doubt, is an important holiday that helps signify the state’s accomplishment and its unique culture. On this day, Alaskans come together and remember the significance of the day while being thankful for the experiences the state has to offer.
Thus, people in Alaska, as well as other parts of the country, observe this special holiday to reflect on Alaska’s incredible natural beauty and rich cultural past. Celebrate this holiday with friends, family, or merely embrace the beauty of this glorious place.
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FUN FACT:
In year 1959, Alaska Day observed in United States of America is celebrated on October 18 for the first time.HOLIDAY CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, please click here to contact us!