Alaska Day

Alaska Day is observed on October 18th each year to commemorate the formal transfer of the territory of Alaska from Russia to the United States, which took place on October 18, 1867. This day marks the anniversary of the Alaska Purchase, when the U.S. acquired Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. The transfer ceremony took place in Sitka, the capital at that time, where the Russian flag was lowered, and the American flag was raised. Alaska Day is a state holiday, and it is celebrated with parades, reenactments, historical events, and other festivities, especially in Sitka, where the original transfer ceremony occurred. State employees typically have the day off, though it's not a federal holiday.