July 20 National Days

July 20 is the 202nd day of the year (203rd in leap years), leaving 163 days remaining until the year’s end. This date brings together historic achievements, lighthearted traditions, and thoughtful global observances. From celebrating the Apollo 11 Moon landing to appreciating ugly trucks and encouraging a global jump, July 20 combines milestones in science with playful expressions of culture and creativity.

Here are the 11 national and international days celebrated on July 20.

National and International Days on July 20

International Chess Day commemorates the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924. First celebrated in 1966 following a proposal by UNESCO, the day honors chess as a game of strategy, intellect, and global connection. Recognized by the United Nations since 2019, International Chess Day is now observed in many countries, with tournaments, exhibitions, and outreach programs that aim to bring more people to play chess.

International Moon Day / National Moon Day marks the anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, when humans first set foot on the Moon on July 20, 1969. In 2021, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized the date as International Moon Day to highlight peaceful cooperation in space exploration. The day also honors the achievements of all nations in lunar exploration and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable practices in outer space.

Lake Superior Day* (Third Sunday in July) highlights the ecological, economic, and cultural importance of the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. First celebrated in the early 1990s, the day is now coordinated by the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve in Wisconsin. It includes public events, educational activities, and conservation initiatives across the Lake Superior basin, home to over 600,000 people and countless plant and animal species.

National Fortune Cookie Day celebrates the crispy treat often served at the end of meals in Chinese restaurants across the United States. Though not of Chinese origin, fortune cookies are believed to have evolved from Japanese tsujiura senbei—folded cookies with paper fortunes—introduced in California in the early 20th century. The modern version became widespread after the invention of the fortune cookie folding machine in the 1960s, making it a staple dessert with a side of curiosity.

National Ice Cream Day* (Third Sunday in July) was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 as part of National Ice Cream Month. Though originally designated for that year alone, the celebration has continued every summer thanks to its popularity and promotion by ice cream makers.

National Lollipop Day was founded by the National Confectioners Association to celebrate one of the most enduring candy creations. While similar treats existed as early as the 1860s, the modern lollipop was introduced by George Smith in 1908. He later trademarked the name “Lollipop” in 1931, inspired by his favorite racehorse. Today, this candy-on-a-stick is available in countless flavors and shapes, enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

National Pennsylvania Day recognizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the second state to join the Union. Known as the Keystone State, Pennsylvania played pivotal roles in American independence, constitutional history, and industrial growth. The nickname reflects its central importance in holding the newly formed country together, much like a keystone supports an arch. The day celebrates the state’s historical contributions and diverse cultural heritage.

National Ugly Truck Day honors well-worn, rugged, and sometimes rust-covered trucks that continue to run and carry memories with them. While its origins are a bit unclear, ugly truck contests began popping up in the 1990s, celebrating character over appearance. This lighthearted day invites owners to show off their beat-up pickups in parades or contests, embracing the idea that beauty is in the eye of the keyholder.

National Wiffle Ball Day celebrates the invention of the Wiffle Ball in 1953 by David N. Mullany of Connecticut. Designed for his 12-year-old son, the ball’s unique perforations allowed it to curve easily—perfect for backyard games. Wiffle ball quickly became a safer alternative to baseball, enjoyed in small spaces by kids and adults alike.

Space Exploration Day commemorates the Apollo 11 Moon landing and celebrates the broader spirit of space discovery. First observed in the early 1970s and officially proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, the day honors scientific achievement and international cooperation in space. Ken Randle of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics was instrumental in founding the day, which continues to inspire interest in astronomy, innovation, and human curiosity.

World Jump Day was created in 2006 by German artist Torsten Lauschmann as a playful experiment. The original concept suggested that if enough people jumped at the same time, it could shift Earth’s orbit and help combat global warming—a claim quickly dismissed by scientists. Despite that, World Jump Day remains a lighthearted event focused on raising environmental awareness and encouraging physical movement in a fun, global way.

National Days in July

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