February 8 is the 39th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 326 days until the end of the year (327 in leap years). On this day, eight national and international celebrations highlight history, adventure, science, arts, and entertainment.

From flying a kite in the open sky to enjoying molasses bars, celebrating the Boy Scouts, or appreciating the magic of opera, this day offers unique and enriching experiences.

National Days on February 8th
February 8 National Days

Let’s take a look at the national and international days observed on February 8!


National and International Days on February 8

Global Movie Day* (Second Saturday in February): Right in the heart of Oscar season, this day celebrates the lasting impact of movies worldwide. Since their inception, films have transcended language, time, and culture, bringing people together through storytelling. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences founded Global Movie Day in 2020 to recognize the power of movies in shaping perspectives and inspiring creativity.

International Snowmobile Ride Day* (Second Saturday in February): Established in 2022 by BRP, Inc., this day encourages people to enjoy winter by exploring snowy landscapes on a snowmobile. It highlights the fun and adventure of snowmobiling while promoting outdoor activity during the colder months. Families and enthusiasts use the day to bond over thrilling rides through winter wonderlands.

Laugh and Get Rich Day: Science has proven that laughter has health benefits, including reducing stress and boosting mood through the release of endorphins. This day promotes the idea that a positive outlook and a good sense of humor can contribute to personal success, happiness, and even financial prosperity by fostering better relationships and creative thinking.

National Boy Scouts Day: This day commemorates the founding of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) on February 8, 1910, by William Dickson Boyce. Inspired by the British Boy Scouts, Boyce established the organization after a helpful scout guided him through a foggy London street without expecting payment. Since then, millions of boys across America have joined the Scouts, learning survival skills, leadership, and community service.

National Iowa Day: Celebrating the Hawkeye State, this day recognizes Iowa’s history, rolling farmland, and vibrant small towns. Known for its contributions to agriculture, Iowa is also home to the highest per capita number of bowling alleys in the United States. The day honors the state’s culture, industry, and Midwestern charm.

National Kite Flying Day: Encouraging people to make and fly kites, this day celebrates a tradition that dates back to China in 470 B.C. Originally used for military purposes like sending signals and spying on enemies, kites evolved into a popular recreational activity worldwide. Today, many enthusiasts mark the day by flying kites or participating in festivals.

National Molasses Bar Day: Molasses has been used as a sweetener for centuries, originating from sugarcane and sugar beets. It has been a key ingredient in baking, sauces, and brewing. This day encourages people to enjoy molasses bars, a chewy treat often flavored with cinnamon and spices.

Opera Day: Opera, a powerful form of storytelling through music, emerged in Italy and quickly spread across Europe. With roots in classical traditions, it became a global art form performed in multiple languages. This day celebrates the history, beauty, and cultural impact of opera, encouraging people to attend performances, listen to famous operatic pieces, or learn more about the art form.


🎭 A similar celebration, World Opera Day, takes place every year on October 25, honoring the art of opera and commemorating the birthdays of Georges Bizet and Johann Strauss. 🎶✨


These nine national and international days celebrated on February 8 highlight arts, entertainment, adventure, history, and culture. Whether enjoying a movie, riding a snowmobile, celebrating the Boy Scouts, or experiencing the joy of laughter, this day offers a range of activities to explore and appreciate.


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➡️  Have you already seen DigitalHyyge’s National Days Calendars 2025?

➡️  Complete list of February National Days

➡️  Complete list of March National Days

➡️  Curious to see more national and international celebrations? We have dozens of national days lists curated for you!

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Last Update: February 4, 2025