July 11 National Days

July 11 is the 192nd day of the year (193rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 173 days until the end of the year. The celebrations on this date range from food and wellness to population awareness and cultural fandom.

A few observances, like National Motorcycle Day and World Kebab Day, are tied to the second Friday in July, while the rest take place every year on July 11.

Here’s a complete overview of the 17 national and international days observed on July 11.

National and International Days on July 11

All American Pet Photo Day invites pet owners to share photos of their animal companions—furry, scaly, feathery, or otherwise. The day encourages capturing the unique personalities and lovable quirks of pets through photos. From dogs and cats to reptiles and birds, every pet gets their moment in front of the camera.

Collector Car Appreciation Day* (Second Friday in July) highlights the importance of automotive heritage, restoration, and culture in the U.S. Since 2009, the day has been recognized by the U.S. Senate at the request of the SEMA Action Network. It’s a time to appreciate vintage vehicles, from early horseless carriages to mid-century classics and beyond.

International Essential Oils Day honors the benefits of essential oils and the legacy of Gary Young, the founder of Young Living. Celebrated on his birthday, this day focuses on wellness, natural living, and the evolution of modern essential oil practices. Young’s dedication to sustainable farming and oil distillation helped grow a global community of essential oil enthusiasts.

🌿 The day encourages learning about plant-based remedies and using oils safely and effectively.

National 7-Eleven Day celebrates the birthday of the first convenience store in the U.S., founded in 1927. Originally called the Southland Ice Company, it became 7-Eleven after changing its hours to 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. in 1947. Today, it’s known for Slurpees, snacks, and being open 24/7 in many places.

🏪 On July 11, stores often give away free Slurpees and host special promotions for customers.

National Blueberry Muffin Day is a sweet tribute to America’s favorite muffin flavor. The blueberry itself became commercially viable thanks to Elizabeth Coleman White and Dr. Frederick V. Coville in the early 1900s. Their work helped turn wild blueberries into a cultivated crop, and blueberry muffins have remained a breakfast staple ever since.

🫐 Enjoy a homemade muffin or grab one from your local bakery to celebrate the day.

National Cheer Up The Lonely Day encourages acts of kindness toward people who feel isolated. Created by Francis Pesek of Detroit, this day honors his mission to bring joy to shut-ins, the elderly, and others who may be forgotten. It reminds everyone to reach out, visit, call, or write to someone who might need connection.

💌 A thoughtful gesture today could make someone’s entire week.

National Free Slurpee Day overlaps with 7-Eleven’s birthday and offers free small Slurpees to customers. First introduced in 2002 to celebrate the brand’s 75th anniversary, this icy tradition has become a summer highlight.

National French Fry Day* (Second Friday in July) celebrates one of the most popular side dishes around the world—crispy, golden French fries. The day invites people to enjoy fries in all their forms, from shoestring to crinkle-cut, and from classic salted versions to loaded creations with toppings. The exact origin of the day is unclear, but it’s widely embraced by restaurants, fast food chains, and fry fans alike. While the dish’s name suggests French origins, many food historians point to Belgium as the birthplace of fries, dating back to the late 1600s. No matter where they started, French fries have become a beloved staple in many cuisines, often paired with ketchup, mayo, or more regional sauces.

National Mojito Day celebrates the refreshing Cuban cocktail made with white rum, lime juice, mint, sugar, and soda water. While its origins are debated, Havana is widely regarded as the birthplace of the drink. Its roots may go back to medicinal remedies used by early Caribbean peoples, later refined into the modern mojito.

🍸 Related celebrations include National Cocktail Day on March 24. For more alcohol-themed days, visit the dedicated article.

National Motorcycle Day* (Second Friday in July) pays tribute to the thrill of the open road and the culture surrounding motorcycles. Riders across the U.S. take to the streets, emphasizing the freedom and experience that only a motorcycle ride can offer. The day also promotes safe and responsible riding.

National Polyphenol Day was founded in 2021 by wellness brand Gundry MD to spread awareness of polyphenols—plant compounds that support heart health, brain function, and more. Found in foods like berries, dark chocolate, olive oil, and tea, polyphenols are praised for their antioxidant properties.

🥗 The day encourages adding colorful, plant-rich foods to your meals for long-term health benefits.

National Rainier Cherry Day celebrates a prized cherry variety developed in 1952 by Harry Fogle of Washington State University. A cross between Bing and Van cherries, Rainiers are known for their sweet flavor, golden color, and delicate skin. They require hand-picking and are susceptible to weather and birds, making each harvest especially precious.

🍒 Enjoy fresh Rainier cherries or use them in baking to mark the day.

National State Fair Food Day brings the flavors of a fair right to your kitchen or local shop. Corn dogs, funnel cakes, caramel corn, and cotton candy are just a few favorites associated with summer fairs. This day celebrates the creativity and fun of indulgent fairground foods, even outside the fairgrounds.

🎡 Recreate your favorite at home or find a spot offering state fair-inspired treats.

National Swimming Pool Day invites people to relax, play, or swim laps in a pool. Pools offer a refreshing escape from the heat, and the day also promotes water safety and responsible pool use.

🏊 Whether you visit a local pool or cool off in your backyard, today is a great excuse to take a dip.

World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day (W-BAD) raises awareness about the potential dangers of benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal. The day was launched in 2016 by activists and survivors to spotlight overprescription and side effects. It also honors the birthday of Professor Heather Ashton, a pioneer in benzodiazepine research.

⚠️ The day encourages informed use of these medications and supports safe medical practices.

World Kebab Day* (Second Friday in July) celebrates the global love for grilled meat skewers. Believed to have originated in the Middle East—especially Turkey—kebabs have evolved into countless regional varieties, from shish kebabs to satay. Whether made with lamb, chicken, or vegetables, kebabs are a universal comfort food.

🍢 Fire up the grill and enjoy your favorite version, seasoned to perfection.

World Population Day was established by the United Nations in 1989 to highlight the challenges and opportunities linked to global population growth. It draws attention to issues such as reproductive health, gender equality, education, and sustainability. The day was inspired by the Day of Five Billion, marked in 1987 when the global population hit five billion.

🌍 With the population now in the billions and rising, the observance stresses balance between human needs and planetary health.