June 26 National Days

June 26 is the 177th day of the year (178th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 188 days until the end of the year. Today’s observances highlight global awareness days, beloved animated characters, nostalgic desserts, and everyday technology that has quietly transformed the world.

A few events, such as National Bomb Pop Day and National Handshake Day, change based on the calendar, but most celebrations fall on this fixed June 26 date.

Here’s a full overview of the 14 national and international days observed on June 26.

National and International Days on June 26

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: On June 26, 1987, the International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking recommended a day to raise awareness about the global drug problem. The date was chosen to honor the dismantling of the opium trade in Guangdong in 1839. The United Nations began officially observing this day in 1989 to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a drug-free world.

International Day in Support of Victims of Torture: This United Nations observance was officially proclaimed in December 1997 and first observed on June 26, 1998. It honors survivors of torture and condemns its use under any circumstance. The date was chosen to mark the day in 1987 when the UN Convention Against Torture came into effect, reinforcing the commitment to uphold human dignity and the prohibition of inhumane treatment worldwide.

Lilo & Stitch Day: Also known as 626 Day, this fan-driven celebration falls on June 26 in honor of Stitch’s experiment number—626. Since the 2002 release of Lilo & Stitch, fans have embraced the story of friendship and found family through crafts, themed parties, and social media tributes. The date playfully ties into the sci-fi origins of Stitch’s name and remains a yearly tradition among Disney fans.

National Barcode Day: First celebrated in 2021, this day marks the moment on June 26, 1974, when a 10-pack of Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit gum became the first product scanned using a barcode at a Marsh supermarket in Troy, Ohio. Created by Barcoding, Inc., Datalogic, and ScanSource, the day celebrates the innovation of George Lauer, whose technology reshaped retail, logistics, and inventory management across the globe.

National Beautician’s Day: This celebration recognizes the professionals who help us look and feel our best—from hair stylists and barbers to nail technicians and estheticians. National Beautician’s Day honors their artistic skill, personal dedication, and the emotional support they provide to clients day after day.

National Bomb Pop Day* (Last Thursday in June): The iconic red, white, and blue Bomb Pop has been cooling off summer crowds since 1955. Created in Kansas City during the Cold War, this frozen treat became a symbol of patriotic fun. Celebrated on the last Thursday in June, National Bomb Pop Day is all about enjoying this nostalgic snack as the Fourth of July approaches.

National Canoe Day: Founded by The Canadian Canoe Museum in 2007, National Canoe Day celebrates the cultural and recreational value of the canoe. After the canoe was named one of the Seven Wonders of Canada in a CBC campaign, this day was launched to honor its legacy—from Indigenous craftsmanship to modern outdoor adventures. Paddling events and storytelling are common ways to mark the occasion.

National Chocolate Pudding Day: This creamy dessert has roots in early 20th-century American cookbooks, with versions thickened by both starch and eggs. In 1934, General Foods introduced it as “Walter Baker’s Dessert,” later renamed “Pickle’s Pudding.” Chocolate pudding remains a classic comfort food today, enjoyed both as a homemade dish and as a prepackaged snack.

National Coconut Day: Launched by the Coconut Coalition of the Americas in 2019, this day promotes the many benefits of coconut products. From coconut oil’s medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to the fruit’s culinary uses, coconuts support everything from skincare and energy metabolism to hydration. The observance encourages people to explore coconut-based items while raising awareness about the growing coconut industry in North America.

🥥 You can also explore other plant-based celebrations like National Avocado Day on July 31 and National Almond Day on February 16.

National Handshake Day* (Last Thursday in June): Founded in 2005 by Miryam Roddy of BRODY Professional Development, this observance honors the power of a simple handshake. Once a universal symbol of respect, trust, and connection, the handshake has shifted in recent years—but still holds significance in professional and social settings. The day encourages revisiting this timeless gesture and reflecting on its cultural importance.

World Refrigeration Day: Initiated in 2019 by Stephen Gill in coordination with the World Refrigeration Secretariat, this day celebrates the role of refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat-pump technologies. The date honors the birthday of Lord Kelvin (William Thomson), born on June 26, 1824, whose work on thermodynamics helped shape modern temperature measurement. The day includes global events and aims to raise awareness of the essential role refrigeration plays in food safety, health, and industry.

🌡️ Related observances include World Ozone Day on September 16 and International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on September 7.