Alascattalo Day
Alascattalo Day celebrates a creature that never existed—a moose with tusks and a walrus's body. This oddball mix, born from Alaskan humor, stands as a symbol of the state's love for playful stories and quirky traditions.
Tap into Alaska's quirky local pride and DIY creativity culture with limited-edition Alascattalo merchandise and user-generated content campaigns that celebrate absurdist humor.
- Create-your-own Alascattalo craft kits or DIY art supplies bundles
- Host a social media tall-tale contest with prizes for the wildest Alaskan folklore submissions
- Feature local Alaskan artisans selling Alascattalo-themed merchandise with behind-the-scenes storytelling
- Lighthearted 'Alascattalo costume inspiration' guides for Halloween-adjacent fun in November
Alascattalo Day began in the early 1990s when Steven C. Levi, a writer from Anchorage, Alaska, wanted to bring some fun to a dark season.
He came up with the Alascattalo—a made-up animal with the antlers of a moose and the tusks of a walrus. This odd creature captured the spirit of Alaska’s wild humor and love for unusual stories.
The celebration started as a joke but quickly grew into something people looked forward to. Levi helped organize a short parade in Anchorage to mark the day. The event stood out because it didn’t last long, often ending before anyone noticed it had begun.
That playful twist made it even more popular. People dressed in strange costumes, shared made-up tales, and didn’t take anything too seriously.
Unlike bigger holidays, Alascattalo Day stays small and strange. That’s the charm. It reminds people not to forget laughter, even during long, cold months.
The event also highlights the creative spirit found across Alaska. Over time, the made-up moose-walrus has become a symbol of local pride and imagination.
Even if it started as a light joke, Alascattalo Day now has a real place in Alaska’s cultural life—odd, fun, and proudly its own thing.
Craft Your Own Alascattalo
Gather materials like clay, paper, or fabric to create your version of the mythical moose-walrus hybrid. Let your creativity run wild with tusks, antlers, and flippers. Display your masterpiece at home or share it online to spread the fun.
Host a Tall Tale Contest
Invite friends and family to share their most outrageous, made-up stories. Encourage wild twists and unexpected endings. Award prizes for the most imaginative narratives. Laughter and creativity take center stage.
Dress Up in Disguise
Don a quirky costume or disguise, perhaps inspired by the Alascattalo itself. Organize a mini parade in your neighborhood or living room. Celebrate the day with a touch of absurdity and fun.
Share Alaskan Humor
Read excerpts from “Alascattalo Tales: A Treasury of Alaskan Humor” by Steven C. Levi. Share your favorite jokes or humorous anecdotes with others. Embrace the lighthearted spirit of the day.
Support Local Artisans
Purchase Alascattalo-themed merchandise from local artists or online shops. Look for items like t-shirts, mugs, or artwork featuring the mythical creature. Your support helps keep the whimsical tradition alive.