A red strontium aluminate phosphor ($Sr_3Al_2O_6:Eu^{3+},Eu^{2+}$) is synthesized using a solid state reaction method in air and reducing atmosphere. The investigation of firing temperature indicates that a single phase of $Sr_3Al_2O_6$ is formed when the firing temperature is higher than $1300^{circ}C$. The effect of firing temperature and doping concentration on luminescent properties are investigated. $Sr_3Al_2O_6$ phosphor exhibits the typical red luminescent properties of $Eu^{3+}$ and $Eu^{2+}$.