June 6 National Days

June 6 is the 157th day of the year (158th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 208 days until the end of the year. Today’s observances span from classic toys and retro video games to green roofs, cave systems, and higher education advocacy.

A few celebrations, including National Doughnut Day, Fish and Chip Day, and World Pest Awareness Day, follow a rotating weekday schedule and land on the first Friday in June. The rest are fixed annual observances that take place every June 6.

Here’s a full overview of the 13 national and international days celebrated on June 6.

National and International Days on June 6

Infant Feeding Day: Launched in 2019 by the UK-based charity Feed, Infant Feeding Day brings awareness to the many ways babies are nourished—from breastfeeding and formula to the introduction of solid foods. The day emphasizes support and unity among caregivers, encouraging conversations about flexible feeding methods and reducing stigma around different feeding choices.

National Applesauce Cake Day: This day celebrates a moist, spiced dessert that dates back to early American colonial times. Applesauce cake became especially popular for its low cost and long shelf life, often appearing in cookbooks from 1900 to the 1950s. The addition of applesauce helps keep the cake tender while reducing the need for extra fat or sugar. Today, it’s a nostalgic treat still enjoyed in many households.

National Caves and Karst Day: Observed each year on June 6, this day highlights the importance of caves and karst landscapes—natural systems that affect drinking water, ecosystems, and geology. Established in 2017 by the National Caves Association, the day also promotes safe exploration of over 90 show caves across the U.S., Bermuda, and Barbados. It’s a chance to appreciate underground wonders and learn how these fragile environments shape our planet.

National Doughnut or Donut Day* (First Friday in June): This sweet tradition dates back to 1938 when the Salvation Army in Chicago created the day to honor the women—known as Salvation Army Lassies—who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. Originally started as a fundraiser during the Great Depression, the day remains a tribute to comfort, resilience, and baked goods. Today, many bakeries offer free doughnuts to mark the occasion.

🍩 For more dessert-themed holidays, see the full list of national food days.

National Drive-In Movie Day: On June 6, 1933, Richard Hollingshead Jr. opened the first drive-in movie theater in Camden, New Jersey. This observance celebrates that moment in entertainment history and the nostalgic charm of watching films under the stars. While fewer in number today, many drive-ins still operate and offer a retro alternative to traditional cinemas.

National Eyewear Day: Founded by Zyloware Eyewear in 2016, this day promotes the importance of vision care while also celebrating eyewear as a fashion accessory. It’s a reminder to schedule regular eye exams and explore the many styles and functions of glasses and sunglasses. Eyewear is both a health tool and a form of personal expression.

National Fish & Chip Day 🇬🇧* (First Friday in June): This UK-based observance began in 2015, spearheaded by the National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association (NEODA) to honor fish and chips as a national treasure. Supported by restaurants, suppliers, and media, the day highlights the role of everyone involved—from fishermen to foodservice providers. Friday was chosen due to its historical association with fish meals and consumer habits.

🐟 Related celebrations include National Fish Day on August 27 and National Fish Farmers Day on July 10.

National Gardening Exercise Day: Celebrated on June 6, this day encourages people to think of gardening as a form of physical exercise. Tending to plants, digging, and lifting bags of soil can strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and support mental health. The day is also an invitation to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature’s therapeutic benefits.

🌱 See also National Weed Your Garden Day on June 13 and National Gardening Week (First full week of June).

National Higher Education Day: Started in 2015 by Izamar Olaguez and March Hronis, this day highlights the importance of access to higher education. The day aims to motivate students, promote scholarships, and inspire action to reduce educational inequality. Social media campaigns often accompany this observance to spread information and personal stories.

National Yo-Yo Day: This celebration honors the yo-yo and its contributions to fun and skill development. First declared in 1990 by Daniel Volk in Arcade, New York, June 6 was chosen because it’s the birthday of Donald F. Duncan, founder of the Duncan Toy Company. The day encourages fans to try tricks like Walk the Dog or Around the World while reflecting on the toy’s long-standing popularity.

World Green Roof Day: Established in 2020 by green infrastructure experts Chris Bridgman and Dusty Gedge, this day promotes the environmental, social, and aesthetic benefits of vegetated rooftops. As urban areas grow, green roofs offer solutions for insulation, biodiversity, rainwater management, and public wellness. Celebrated globally with the hashtag #WGRD, the day also showcases innovations like multifunctional rooftops with solar panels, seating, and pollinator habitats.

World Pest Awareness Day: Launched in 2017 by the Chinese Pest Control Association in partnership with the National Pest Management Association, the Confederation of European Pest Management Associations, and the Federation of Asian and Oceania Pest Managers’ Associations, this global day brings attention to the vital role pest management professionals play. It highlights the need for safe pest control to protect health, food supplies, and property from disease-carrying and damaging pests.

World Tetris Day: June 6 marks the creation of the legendary puzzle video game Tetris, designed by Alexey Pajitnov in 1984. The game became a global phenomenon thanks to its simple yet addictive design. Celebrated by fans and the Tetris Company, the day honors Tetris’s influence on gaming history, culture, and even cognitive science. It continues to be one of the most recognizable and played video games worldwide.

🕹️ See also related retro gaming celebrations like National Video Games Day on September 12.