February 24 National Days

February 24 is the 55th day of the year, with 310 days remaining (311 in leap years). On this day, there are 7 national and international observances, ranging from food and pop culture to collectibles and history.

From celebrating steakburgers and tortilla chips to honoring bartenders and historical figures, this day offers something for everyone.

Let’s explore the national and international days observed on February 24!

National and International Days on February 24

Edward Dickinson Baker Day: Established in 2011 by the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, this day honors Edward Dickinson Baker, a U.S. Senator and military leader. He was the only sitting U.S. senator to die in combat, falling at the Battle of Ball’s Bluff during the Civil War. A close friend of Abraham Lincoln, Baker was known for his oratory skills and dedication to public service. Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber officially designated the day, ensuring Baker’s legacy remains part of American history.

I Hate Coriander Day: For those who can’t stand the taste of coriander (cilantro), this day is for you! This movement started as a Facebook group that quickly grew to include hundreds of thousands of members. The reason some people dislike coriander lies in genetics—specifically, the OR6A2 gene, which makes certain individuals more sensitive to aldehydes, giving coriander a soapy taste. Whether you love or hate it, coriander remains one of the most divisive herbs in the culinary world.

National Steakburger Day: Celebrated in honor of Freddy Simon, the founder of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, this day highlights the unique qualities of a steakburger. Unlike traditional hamburgers, Freddy’s steakburgers use lean ground beef, pressed thin and seared on a flat-top grill to achieve crispy edges and a juicy center.

National Tortilla Chip Day: This day honors the crunchy, versatile snack that pairs perfectly with salsa, guacamole, queso, and more. While tortilla chips are often associated with Mexican cuisine, they were first mass-produced in Los Angeles in the late 1940s by Rebecca Webb Carranza, who made use of excess tortillas from her family’s business. Her accidental creation became a snacking staple, now enjoyed worldwide.

National Trading Card Day: Whether you collect sports cards, Pokémon cards, or Magic: The Gathering, this day celebrates the art of collecting and trading cards. Trading cards date back to the 19th century, when they were included in cigarette packs for sturdiness. The most valuable trading card, the T206 Honus Wagner baseball card, has sold for over $3 million. Today, trading card culture continues to thrive, with both physical and digital cards being highly sought after.

Twin Peaks Day: Fans of the cult-classic TV show Twin Peaks mark this day as the anniversary of Agent Dale Cooper’s arrival in the fictional town of Twin Peaks. The show, which first aired in 1990, became known for its mystery, supernatural themes, and quirky characters. In 2018, the mayors of Snoqualmie and North Bend, Washington—where much of the series was filmed—officially declared Twin Peaks Day. Fans celebrate by re-watching episodes, visiting filming locations, and enjoying cherry pie and coffee, just like Agent Cooper.

World Bartender Day: This day recognizes one of the world’s oldest professions, celebrating the skill and creativity of bartenders. Bartending dates back to the 1400s, when innkeepers in Europe served ales and spirits. In 1862, Jerry Thomas published The Bar-tender’s Guide, the first cocktail recipe book in the United States. Even during Prohibition, bartenders remained essential to American nightlife. Established in 2018 by The Perfect Blend cocktail competition in Australia and New Zealand, this day highlights the craft of mixology and the role of bartenders in social culture.

With 7 diverse celebrations, February 24 is the perfect day to enjoy tortilla chips, revisit Twin Peaks, trade collectible cards, or appreciate the work of bartenders and culinary pioneers.

Which of these national days will you be celebrating today?