July 26 National Days

July 26 is the 207th day of the year (208th in leap years), with 158 days remaining until the end of the year. This date invites us to reflect on civil rights, celebrate nature’s resilience, explore wellness practices, and enjoy some flavorful fun. From protecting mangrove forests to honoring the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the observances on this day balance advocacy with creativity, unity, and appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Here’s a closer look at the 11 national and international days celebrated on July 26 with short explanations for each observation.

National and International Days on July 26

Holistic Therapy Day encourages a balanced approach to health by highlighting practices that consider the mind, body, and spirit as interconnected. Observed annually on July 26, this day promotes awareness of holistic methods such as meditation, yoga, energy healing, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. These approaches aim to restore harmony within the whole person, rather than just treating isolated symptoms. It’s a reminder to slow down and invest in emotional and spiritual well-being alongside physical health.

National All or Nothing Day invites people to stop hesitating and take decisive action. It’s a day that encourages full commitment—whether to a long-delayed dream, a difficult conversation, or a new challenge. Rather than living halfway, the spirit of the day is about breaking through doubt or fear and going all in. The message is simple: don’t hold back. If there’s something you’ve wanted to do, today might be the day to finally begin.

National Aunt and Uncle’s Day honors the special bond we share with our parents’ siblings. Aunts and uncles often play unique roles in our lives—as mentors, second parents, or simply fun relatives who bring warmth and humor to family gatherings. This day offers a chance to reconnect, express gratitude, and reflect on cherished memories. It’s also a great excuse to send a thoughtful message or share old family photos.

National Bagelfest Day celebrates one of the most beloved breakfast staples in the United States. Introduced by Polish-Jewish immigrants in the 19th century, the bagel became a symbol of community and culinary tradition, especially in New York City. Bagel Bakers Local 338, formed in 1907, helped shape the trade for decades. In 1986, Murray Lender of Lender’s Bagels created National Bagelfest Day in Mattoon, Illinois—the home of the largest bagel factory. Today, the day is a tribute to this crunchy, chewy classic.

National Coffee Milkshake Day blends the bold flavor of coffee with the creamy sweetness of a milkshake. Perfect for National Ice Cream Month, this day appeals to both coffee fans and ice cream lovers looking to cool down during the summer. Today, it’s a refreshing way to get your caffeine fix and celebrate summer.

National Day of the Cowboy* (Fourth Saturday in July) honors the legacy of cowboys and cowgirls in American culture. The term “cowboy” comes from the Spanish word vaquero, describing cattle herders on horseback. After the Civil War, cowboys became central to ranch life in the western U.S., especially in Texas. Since its first observance in 2005, the day has been promoted by the National Day of the Cowboy Organization, which continues to push for wider state and national recognition. It celebrates the values of independence, hard work, and respect for the land.

National Disability Independence Day commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This landmark civil rights law protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination and ensures equal access to public spaces, employment, transportation, and communication. The day also acknowledges the ongoing efforts of disability advocates and allies who work to break down barriers and create more inclusive communities. It stands as a reminder that full participation in society is a right, not a privilege.

National Dog Photography Day was launched in 2018 by professional dog photographer Kerry Jordan to celebrate our canine companions and the joy they bring. Timed to coincide with the birthday of iconic dog photographer Elliott Erwitt, this day encourages pet owners to share photos of their dogs and flood social media with positivity. It’s also a celebration of the growing role pets play in our daily lives—and how photography captures their personality and love.

One Voice Day promotes peace and unity by inviting people across the world to recite the Universal Peace Covenant on July 26. The Covenant was created between 1996 and 1997 by a diverse group of individuals from different ages, cultures, and spiritual backgrounds. It contains 577 words meant to inspire peaceful living and shared responsibility for the future. One Voice Day serves as a call to rise above division and honor our common humanity through collective intention.

World Mangrove Day, officially known as the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, was established by UNESCO in 2015 and first observed in 2016. The day brings attention to the importance of mangrove forests—salt-tolerant trees that protect coastlines, store carbon, and provide essential habitats for wildlife. These unique ecosystems are under threat from pollution and coastal development, making awareness and restoration efforts more critical than ever.

World Tofu Day recognizes tofu as nutritious plant-based food made from soybeans. Celebrated annually on July 26, the day highlights tofu’s long history in East Asian cuisine, especially in China and Japan, and its growing popularity among those following vegetarian or vegan diets. Tofu is rich in protein and can take on many flavors and textures, making it a valuable alternative to meat in a wide range of dishes. The day encourages curious eaters to give tofu a try and learn more about plant-based living.