February 18, 2026, is the 49th day of the year, with 316 days remaining, and it falls on a Wednesday in the eighth week of the year.
From appreciating batteries and thumbs to celebrating Pluto’s discovery and an unusual airborne dairy event, this day offers plenty of ways to learn something new.
National & International Days on February 18
Below is a list of all 8 national and international days observed on February 18, each explained briefly.
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday* (46 days before Easter) marks the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection leading up to Easter (Sundays are not counted, which is why the total span is 46 days). In many churches, worshippers receive a cross of ashes on their foreheads as a symbol of repentance and a reminder of human mortality.
Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day
Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day commemorates a 1930 aviation experiment in which a cow named Elm Farm Ollie became the first bovine to fly and be milked midair. It was meant to show that air travel could safely transport livestock and dairy products. During the 72-mile flight, dairy farmer Elsworth W. Bunce milked the cow, producing 24 quarts of milk, which were then parachuted down to spectators.
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day was founded in 2013 by a mother honoring her daughter’s memory. This day raises awareness and funds for childhood cancer research. People participate by enjoying ice cream in the morning and sharing the cause with others.
ℹ️ This observance is often confused with Ice Cream for Breakfast Day, held on the first Saturday in February, which is a separate celebration without the same charitable focus.
National Battery Day
National Battery Day recognizes the birthday of Alessandro Volta, who developed the first true electric battery in 1800. The observance highlights how batteries power modern life and encourages proper recycling and safe use.
National Crab Stuffed Flounder Day
National Crab Stuffed Flounder Day celebrates a seafood dish that combines mild flounder with seasoned crab meat. The pairing became popular in American coastal cuisine during the 20th century.
National Drink Wine Day
National Drink Wine Day celebrates one of the world’s oldest fermented beverages, which has been enjoyed for thousands of years across many cultures. This observance is one of 70+ other wine days celebrated throughout the year.
Pluto Day
Pluto Day marks the 1930 discovery of Pluto by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. For 76 years, Pluto was considered the ninth planet in the solar system until the International Astronomical Union reclassified it as a dwarf planet in 2006.
🔮 Interested in astrology? I’ve designed a handy astrology cheat sheet that’s been a bestseller on Etsy since 2021!
Thumb Appreciation Day
Thumb Appreciation Day highlights the importance of the thumb in gripping, writing, and using digital devices. It draws attention to how essential this part of the hand is for coordination and independence. Opposable thumbs set humans apart from most animals, though some primates also have them.
National Days in February
February 1 | February 2 | February 3 | February 4 | February 5 | February 6 | February 7 | February 8 | February 9 | February 10 | February 11 | February 12 | February 13 | February 14 | February 15 | February 16 | February 17 | February 18 | February 19 | February 20 | February 21 | February 22 | February 23 | February 24 | February 25 | February 26 | February 27 | February 28
National Days by Month
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