National Alaska Day

Group of adventurers bundled up in warm coats and hats, exploring a snow-covered Alaskan landscape with majestic mountains and icy blue glaciers in the background.. — National alaska day illustration

Welcome to the chilly wonderland of National Alaska Day! This frosty celebration takes us on a journey to the largest state in the United States, where glaciers, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes await. So pack your thermal underwear and get ready to explore Alaska to the fullest!

When is Alaska Day?

It's national alaska day on the 28th June.

The Origin of National Alaska Day

Have you ever wondered how National Alaska Day came to be? Well, let us enlighten you, my inquisitive friend. National Alaska Day was established to commemorate the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States on October 18, 1867.

Now, let's dive into the internet history of this day. According to our sources, National Alaska Day first gained online attention on June 28, 2019, when it was mentioned a whopping 73 times. It seems that people couldn't stop talking about the wonders of the Last Frontier!

Exploring Alaska: A Winter Wonderland

Alaska is more than just a frozen tundra. It's a place where nature and adventure converge. Strap on your snowshoes and embark on a thrilling dog sled ride through the snow-covered forests. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

For the real daredevils out there, ice climbing is a must-try. Challenge yourself as you ascend frozen waterfalls, channeling your inner mountaineer. And don't forget to keep an eye out for Alaska's diverse wildlife - from bears to whales, there's always something awe-inspiring to behold.

Food Delights and Heartwarming Traditions

Now, let's warm up our bellies with some delicious Alaskan delicacies. Feast on succulent Alaskan king crab legs, indulge in a mouthwatering salmon bake, or sip on a comforting mug of hot chocolate while snuggled up by the fireplace.

In addition to its mouthwatering cuisine, Alaska also boasts heartwarming traditions. Take part in the Blanket Toss, an ancient Native Alaskan custom that involves launching friends and loved ones high into the air on a blanket. It's a thrilling experience that will surely make you giggle like a delighted snowflake.

History behind the term 'Alaska'

1732

The Discovery

In 1732, the Russian explorer, Alexei Chirikov, led an expedition to the northern Pacific Ocean. During this journey, he sighted a large landmass that he named 'Alaska', derived from the Aleut word 'Alashka' meaning 'mainland'. This marked the first recorded contact between the Europeans and the Aleutian Islands.

1741

Vitus Bering's Expedition

In 1741, the Danish-Russian explorer Vitus Bering embarked on an ambitious expedition to determine whether Asia and North America were connected. Bering and his crew reached the Alaskan coast and continued their exploration, gradually confirming that Alaska was indeed separate from the Asian continent.

1784

Permanent Russian Settlement

In 1784, Grigory Shelikhov established the first permanent Russian settlement in Alaska named Three Saints Bay. This marked the beginning of the Russian colonization of the region and the fur trade flourished, attracting Russian and European traders to Alaska.

1824

Russian Claim and Usufructuary Rights

In 1824, the Russian Empire formally claimed Alaska and granted the Russian-American Company monopolistic control over the fur trade. The Treaty of Saint Petersburg also recognized the indigenous peoples' rights to uninterrupted use of their traditional territories.

1867

U.S. Purchase of Alaska

In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia in a deal negotiated by Secretary of State William Seward. The purchase, known as the Alaska Purchase, was initially criticized as 'Seward's Folly', but it proved to be a strategic move as Alaska later became rich in natural resources.

1959

Statehood

On January 3, 1959, Alaska became the 49th state of the United States. As a significant milestone in American history, this granted Alaska full statehood and recognized its cultural and economic importance within the nation.

1980

Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act

In 1980, the U.S. Congress passed the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). This landmark legislation set aside more than 100 million acres of land as national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas, ensuring the preservation of Alaska's unmatched natural beauty and biodiversity.

Did you know?

Did you know that Alaska is home to the largest national park in the United States? Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve spans a whopping 13.2 million acres, offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.