August 10 National Days

August 10 is the 223rd day of the year (224th in leap years), with 143 days remaining until the year ends.

This day brings attention to major global and national causes—from protecting endangered lions and honoring the legacy of World War II veterans to raising awareness about the long-term effects of Agent Orange exposure. It’s also a day for creative expression, regional pride, and lighthearted celebration.

Whether you’re updating your online bio, spoiling your dog, enjoying a s’more, or reflecting on history, today’s observances highlight the many ways people connect with the world, their communities, and themselves.

Here’s part one of the 16 national and international days recognized on August 10.

National and International Days on August 10th

Agent Orange Awareness Day commemorates the first known use of Agent Orange during the Vietnam War on August 10, 1961. This herbicide, used to defoliate forests and reveal enemy positions, left a devastating legacy. Exposure to its dioxin contaminant has caused severe health issues in both American veterans and Vietnamese civilians. First promoted in 1988, the day encourages those affected to seek support and raises awareness about the ongoing consequences through advocacy by organizations such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and Soldiers’ Angels.

Duran Duran Appreciation Day celebrates the iconic English band known for shaping the new wave and synth-pop era. While its exact origin is unclear, the day gained popularity after being publicized by YM Magazine in 2003. Some say it was created by a Michigan radio DJ who shared a birthday with the date; others link it to a 1985 boating accident involving lead singer Simon Le Bon. Regardless, fans around the world use August 10 to revisit Duran Duran’s influential music and legacy.

Gay Uncles Day* (Second Sunday in August) recognizes the love and mentorship that gay uncles—often affectionately called “guncles”—bring to their families. Proposed in 2016 by C.J. Hatter on Facebook, the day gained traction after Australian athlete Simon Dunn shared a heartfelt photo with his nephews. The observance quickly grew into an annual celebration across social media, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, role modeling, and connection within families and the LGBTQ+ community.

International Biodiesel Day commemorates August 10, 1893, when Rudolf Diesel successfully ran an engine using peanut oil as fuel. This unofficial holiday highlights the environmental benefits of biodiesel and promotes cleaner, renewable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. The day also raises awareness about innovation in sustainable energy solutions and honors the pioneers who helped make it possible.

International Vlogging Day was founded in 2018 by Summer in the City—now known as Social in the City—to celebrate the growing impact of video blogging. As one of the UK’s largest online video festivals, the event aimed to recognize the power of storytelling, community-building, and creative expression through vlogging. August 10 serves as a tribute to content creators worldwide and encourages people to share their own voices through video.

Melon Day* (Second Sunday in August) is a national holiday in Turkmenistan, founded in 1994 by President Saparmurat Niyazov to honor the Turkmenbashi melon, a sweet fruit unique to the region. Celebrated with festivals and tastings, the day showcases agricultural pride and cultural tradition. Though the day is specific to Turkmenistan, the idea of celebrating melons internationally on this date has gained interest among fruit enthusiasts worldwide.

National Connecticut Day recognizes the fifth state to join the United States and its long-standing influence on American history and innovation. Known as the “Constitution State,” Connecticut adopted the Fundamental Orders in 1639—considered by many to be the first written constitution in the Western world. From early revolutionary leaders like Roger Sherman to world-class institutions such as Yale University, the state blends colonial heritage, maritime culture, and industrial innovation in its contributions to the nation.

National Lazy Day offers a guilt-free reason to slow down and enjoy some well-deserved rest. Though its origins remain unknown, this unofficial holiday has grown in popularity as a reminder to prioritize self-care, unplug from constant activity, and simply be. Whether it’s lounging in bed, reading a book, or taking a nap, National Lazy Day encourages relaxation in all its forms.

National S’mores Day celebrates the iconic campfire treat made with graham crackers, chocolate, and toasted marshmallows. While the exact origins of s’mores are unclear, the first published recipe appeared in the 1927 Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts handbook. Earlier reports suggest Girl Scout groups had already been enjoying them as early as 1925. The treat was originally called “Some Mores,” which eventually evolved into “s’mores.” Though entrepreneur Alec Barnum is sometimes credited with popularizing the snack, it’s the Girl Scouts who gave it a lasting place in American culinary tradition.

National Shapewear Day was founded in 2017 by The Pink Room to celebrate the evolution of shapewear and its role in boosting body confidence. The day honors the long history of foundation garments—from corsets to modern sculpting wear—and acknowledges the ways shapewear can help individuals feel more comfortable and empowered in their own skin. It also shines a light on industry innovation and the growing diversity of shapewear designs to suit all body types and needs.

National SKI Citrus Soda Day honors the lemon-orange flavored soft drink SKI, first introduced on August 10, 1956. The Double Cola Company created this observance in 2020 to celebrate the soda’s loyal fan base and distinct flavor made with real citrus concentrates. With its bold taste and caffeine boost, SKI has earned a dedicated following across parts of the U.S., especially in the South and Midwest.

National Spoil Your Dog Day is a celebration of the bond between humans and their canine companions. Whether dogs serve as working animals or beloved pets, the day encourages extra treats, cuddles, and attention. It’s part of a wider trend of dog-themed observances, such as National Walking the Dog Day and Take Your Dog to Work Day. Today serves as a heartfelt reminder of the joy and loyalty dogs bring to our lives—and the importance of showing them love in return.

National Spirit of ’45 Day* (Second Sunday in August) honors the legacy of the World War II generation. First proposed by the Spirit of ’45 organization and officially recognized by Congress in 2010, the observance falls closest to August 14—the date in 1945 when President Truman announced Japan’s surrender, effectively ending the war. Inspired by figures like Ernest Borgnine and Edith Shain, the day invites reflection on the sacrifices, unity, and resilience of those who lived through the conflict, preserving their stories for future generations.

Skyscraper Appreciation Day was established by Dr. Tom Stevens to celebrate the architectural and engineering marvels that define city skylines. The date marks the birthday of William Van Alen, architect of the iconic Chrysler Building in New York City. The observance invites people to admire the artistry, innovation, and cultural impact of skyscrapers—from early 20th-century masterpieces to today’s record-breaking towers.

Update Your Bio Day was launched in 2020 by Dr. Jason J. Jones as a lighthearted digital holiday encouraging people to refresh their online biographies. Chosen for its visual pun—8/10 resembling “BIO”—the day reminds professionals, creatives, and freelancers to keep their profiles current. As the pace of life and work evolves, the observance highlights the importance of staying visible and relevant in an online world.

World Lion Day was founded in 2013 by Dereck and Beverly Joubert of the National Geographic Big Cat Initiative to raise awareness about the plight of lions. The day highlights threats such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching, while promoting conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals. It also supports safety education for communities living near lion habitats. World Lion Day invites global admiration for lions as symbols of strength, beauty, and ecological importance.

National Days in August

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