July 2 National Days

July 2 is the 183rd day of the year (184th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 182 days remaining until the end of the year. Today’s national and international observances spotlight topics from music and learning to fear, forgetfulness, and even unidentified flying objects.

Some celebrations, like World UFO Day, are also observed on another date, while the rest remain fixed to July 2 each year.

Here’s a full overview of the 11 national and international days observed on July 2.

National and International Days on July 2

Freedom From Fear of Speaking Day shines a light on one of the most common anxieties—public speaking. Observed globally on July 2, this day gives people a space to talk openly about their fear, share strategies for building confidence, and connect with others facing similar challenges. It promotes the idea that everyone deserves to be heard and encourages people to express themselves with less fear and more freedom.

I Forgot Day was started by Gaye Anderson of DeMotte, Indiana, who turned her own forgetfulness into a celebration. Known for missing birthdays and anniversaries, she created this day to offer a lighthearted way for everyone to acknowledge the things they’ve forgotten and make amends. Held each year on July 2, it serves as a reminder that forgetting is part of being human—and sometimes a little grace and humor go a long way.

Made In The USA Day was founded in 1989 by Joel Joseph of the Made in the USA Foundation. The goal was to encourage consumers to support American-made products and highlight the importance of domestic manufacturing. This day also draws attention to labeling standards managed by the FTC, which help shoppers identify the origins of what they buy. Celebrating Made in the USA Day supports local businesses and strengthens the national economy.

National Anisette Day celebrates a liqueur known for its licorice-like flavor, made from aniseed. Popular across Mediterranean countries like France, Italy, and Spain, anisette is often sipped slowly, served over ice, or mixed with water. Its sweeter taste distinguishes it from stronger, unsweetened spirits like absinthe. July 2 is a good moment to explore this aromatic tradition, especially if you’re curious about herbal liqueurs.

🥃 Related observance: World Arak Day is recognized on June 27. See also our complete list of alcohol-related national days.

National Disco Day began in 2014 in New Zealand and soon found a global following. This unofficial holiday honors the lasting influence of disco music, dance, and culture, which first took hold in the 1960s and 70s. It’s a time to turn up the volume, celebrate individuality, and embrace the spirit of disco.

National Wildland Firefighter Day honors those who put their lives on the line to fight wildfires and protect public lands. These highly trained responders work in extreme conditions, often in remote areas. The day falls within Wildland Firefighter Week of Remembrance (June 30–July 6), when the community reflects on those who lost their lives in the line of duty and shares lessons to help prevent future tragedies.

🔥 See also: International Firefighters’ Day on May 4.

Special Recreation for the Disabled Day focuses on creating and promoting inclusive recreational activities for people with disabilities. It highlights the value of sports, music, arts, and other leisure pursuits that support well-being and social inclusion. This day encourages communities to remove barriers and expand opportunities, building on the legacy of adaptive events like the Paralympics.

Synesthesia Awareness Day was founded by Stephen Melton to draw attention to one of the most fascinating neurological phenomena. People with synesthesia may experience a blending of the senses—such as seeing colors when hearing sounds or tasting flavors when reading words. July 2 invites curiosity and conversation around this unique trait, which has been linked to many artists and scientists throughout history but remains under-researched and often misunderstood.

World Sports Journalists Day has been observed since 1994 in honor of the 70th anniversary of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), founded during the 1924 Paris Olympics. The day recognizes the vital role of sports journalists in documenting athletic history, shaping public narratives, and promoting fairness and accuracy in reporting.

World Tutors’ Day was launched by Qualified Tutor in 2020 to celebrate the work of tutors worldwide. It’s a day for acknowledging the academic and emotional support tutors provide and for students and families to express their gratitude. July 2 marks a moment to reflect on the impact of personalized education and the relationships that grow from it.

📚 See also: National Teacher Appreciation Day in early May.

World UFO Day* (June 24 and July 2) marks two key events in UFO history. The June 24 observance reflects aviator Kenneth Arnold’s 1947 sighting in Washington State, while July 2 focuses on the Roswell incident, also from 1947. The day raises awareness of unexplained aerial phenomena and encourages transparency around related research. Enthusiasts often celebrate with skywatching events, documentaries, and community discussions.

👽 See also: World Contact Day on March 15.