Alascattalo Day is celebrated annually on November 21 and honors a fictional creature known as the alascattalo, which is a whimsical mix between a moose and a walrus. This day was created by writer Steven C. Levi to celebrate Alaskan humor and to poke fun at the often absurd questions posed by tourists during the Alaskan Gold Rush era.
Origins and Celebration
The alascattalo is said to have been invented as a humorous response to tourists asking silly questions, such as where to find Alaskan penguins, which do not exist in the region. The day features the Alascattalo Day Parade in Anchorage, Alaska, known as “the longest running shortest parade in American history,” lasting only about four minutes. Participants wear disguises and step off at three minutes after noon.
How to Celebrate Alascattalo Day
To participate in Alascattalo Day, one can:
- Attend the Parade: If in Anchorage, join the festivities of the Alascattalo Day Parade.
- Share Jokes: Engage with Alaskan humor by sharing jokes or reading humorous literature about Alaska.
- Learn About Alaska: Read books about Alaskan culture or watch films set in Alaska to appreciate its unique charm.
This quirky holiday celebrates not just the mythical creature but also the lighthearted spirit of Alaskans and their ability to find humor in everyday situations.
