June 9 National Days

June 9 is the 160th day of the year (161st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 205 days until the end of the year. From iconic cartoon characters and cocktail traditions to marine biodiversity and autoimmune disease awareness, today’s celebrations span a wide range of topics and causes.

National Days on June 9th — June 9th National Days

A few observances, such as Eat Flexitarian Day, shift each year based on the weekday, but the rest consistently fall on June 9.

Here’s a full overview of the 8 national and international days observed on June 9.

National and International Days on June 9

Coral Triangle Day highlights the ecological significance of the Coral Triangle, a marine area in the Western Pacific that hosts more coral reef species than anywhere else on Earth. Established in 2012 by the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF), the day raises awareness about marine biodiversity, sustainable fisheries, and the livelihoods tied to this region.

🌊 It’s celebrated in conjunction with World Oceans Day on June 8.

Eat Flexitarian Day* (Second Monday in June) was created by the plant-based brand OZO® to promote a flexible approach to eating that includes mostly plant-based meals with occasional meat or fish. The day invites people to explore savory, satisfying alternatives to meat, encouraging small dietary changes that can have health and environmental benefits. It stands as a more approachable alternative to veganism or vegetarianism.

International Dark ‘n Stormy Day celebrates the iconic Bermudian cocktail made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer. This refreshing highball dates back to the 1920s, when British naval officers stationed in Bermuda brewed ginger beer as a remedy for seasickness and later added local rum. Now trademarked and enjoyed globally, the drink is especially beloved by sailors. The day honors the cocktail’s nautical heritage and flavor on June 9 each year.

🍸 Related celebrations include National Cocktail Day on March 24. For more alcohol-themed days, visit the dedicated article.

National Donald Duck Day marks the anniversary of the character’s first appearance in the 1934 Disney short The Wise Little Hen. Officially recognized in 1984 by Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley during Donald’s 50th birthday celebration, the day honors the beloved animated duck known for his sailor suit, feisty attitude, and classic voice. Donald remains one of Disney’s most enduring icons and has been featured in hundreds of cartoons and comics.

National Meal Prep Day encourages home cooks to prepare meals in advance to promote healthier eating, reduce food waste, and save time. Created in 2021 by Phit Phuel, the observance advocates for simple planning practices that can make busy weeks easier and more nutritious. As fast food and convenience meals rise in popularity, this day revives the value of home cooking and meal organization.

National No Apologies Period Day was launched in 2021 by Midol to confront period stigma and promote open conversations around menstruation. The day encourages everyone to stop apologizing for a natural biological process and helps normalize menstrual health through awareness and dialogue.

🩸 It joins other menstrual health observances such as Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28.

National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day pays tribute to the classic summer pie that combines tart rhubarb with sweet strawberries. This seasonal dessert is especially popular in early June when both ingredients are in peak harvest. The pairing has become a staple in American kitchens, celebrated for its sweet-tart balance and ties to home gardening traditions.

🥧 Similar observances include National Rhubarb Pie Day on January 23.

World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS) Day brings attention to this rare autoimmune disorder that causes dangerous blood clots and complications during pregnancy. Founded by the APS Foundation of America, the first observance took place on June 9, 2010—five years after the foundation’s launch. The day also provides support for those living with APS and encourages ongoing research and awareness.

World APS Day, as established by the APS Foundation of America in 2010, is supported globally by organizations such as APS Support UK. It helps shed light on a frequently misdiagnosed condition and supports individuals living with APS through education and advocacy.