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National Alaska Day

Celebrate National Alaska Day - explore the beauty of America's Last Frontier and experience pristine wilderness, majestic wildlife, and fascinating culture!

Sunday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 18

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYRegional

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to celebrate one of the most beautiful places on earth - Alaska! On October 18, join in on the fun and festivities of National Alaska Day. This day is a celebration of the Alaskan culture and history, as well as its stunning natural beauty. It was first established back in 1959 when Congress declared October 18th Alaska Day to commemorate Alaska being admitted into the Union as the 49th state. There are so many ways you can enjoy this special day from exploring its majestic mountains and glaciers to experiencing its diverse wildlife. So get ready for an adventure-filled National Alaska Day!

TIMELINE

National Alaska Day Timeline

Expedition by Vitus Bering

Danish explorer, Vitus Bering, while in service of Russia, explored Alaska's coastal areas, marking the first formal European exploration of Alaska.

Alaska Purchase

The U.S. Secretary of State, William H. Seward, negotiated a deal to buy Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, marking the "Alaska Purchase."

Klondike Gold Rush

The discovery of gold in the Yukon triggered a massive gold rush as prospectors flooded into the Northern region.

Alcan Highway Completion

The Alaska Highway (Alcan Highway) was completed in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor, connecting Alaska with US territory.

Statehood Granted

Alaska was admitted into the Union as the 49th state, culminating a lengthy process.

Trans-Alaska Pipeline

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline System was completed, allowing for a significant increase in oil production and economic growth in the state.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Alaska Day

Explore the outdoors

Alaska is known for its beautiful landscapes, so why not explore them? Take a hike, go camping, or take a road trip and explore the wilderness.

LEARN

Learn about Alaska's history

Discover more about Alaska's past by visiting museums and historic sites. Learn about the early settlers, explorers, gold rush, and more.

TRY

Try some traditional dishes

Experience the flavors of Alaska by sampling traditional dishes like reindeer sausage, smoked salmon chowder, and Akutaq (Eskimo ice cream).

VISIT

Visit an Alaska Native Village

Explore the culture of Alaska Natives by visiting one of the many Native villages located throughout the state. Learn about their history and customs.

WATCH

Watch an Alaskan movie

Pop some popcorn, gather your friends, and watch a movie set in Alaska. Classics like "Northern Lights" or "My Giant" are great choices.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Alaska Day is Important

It gives us an opportunity to support Alaskan businesses

National Alaska Day provides an excellent opportunity for people all over the country to show their support for this beautiful state by shopping local or donating to organizations working hard to preserve its natural habitats. Any way you can support these small businesses or conservation causes goes a long way in making sure future generations are able to experience all of the wonders Alaska has to offer!

It celebrates Alaska's culture

National Alaska Day is a day to honor the history and culture of the state. In addition to celebrating the achievements and contributions made by Alaskans, it's also an important reminder to appreciate the diverse traditions and cultures that make up this incredible place. From Native American heritage to Eskimo folklore, Alaska is full of fascinating stories and histories worth exploring!

It highlights Alaska's stunning wildlife

Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking wildlife in the world, from majestic bald eagles soaring through the sky to mink otters scurrying along riversides. National Alaska Day is a day to take a moment and appreciate this incredible natural beauty and all it has to offer us.