July 24 National Days

July 24 is the 205th day of the year (206th in leap years), with 160 days left in the calendar.

Today’s observances range from honoring aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart to recognizing the engineers behind the technology we rely on every day. The day also invites us to explore self-care, enjoy a refreshing drink, consider our ecological footprint, and even appreciate the convenience of drive-thrus and the humor of old jokes.

Here’s a closer look at the national and international days celebrated on July 24 with short explanations for each observation.

National and International Days on July 24

Earth Overshoot Day* (date varies each year) marks the point when humanity’s demand for ecological resources exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year. The concept was developed by Andrew Simms of the New Economics Foundation and launched in 2006 in collaboration with the Global Footprint Network. Since 2007, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has also supported the campaign. Earth Overshoot Day serves as a global reminder of the urgency to reduce resource consumption and environmental degradation. The date shifts annually based on calculations of the planet’s biocapacity and humanity’s ecological footprint.

International Self-Care Day was established in 2011 by the International Self-Care Foundation (UK) to promote self-care as a key part of personal health and well-being. Observed on July 24 to represent the 24/7 nature of self-care, the day encourages individuals to prioritize mental, emotional, and physical wellness through intentional daily habits. Whether through rest, healthy eating, exercise, or seeking support, self-care is recognized as a foundational component of lifelong health.

National Amelia Earhart Day honors the legacy of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, born on July 24, 1897. Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932, inspiring generations with her courage and determination. Although the creator of this national day is unknown, it remains a time to reflect on her achievements and her lasting impact on aviation and women’s history.

National Cousins Day celebrates the special bond shared between cousins, often some of our first and longest-lasting friendships. The day acknowledges the role cousins play in family traditions, childhood memories, and lifelong connections. It’s a chance to reach out, reminisce, and strengthen those family ties—no matter the age or distance.

National Day of Motoring was launched in 2021 by MINI USA to celebrate the joy of driving for fun rather than necessity. The day encourages car enthusiasts to take to the road—alone or with others—for the simple pleasure of the journey. Inspired by American road trip culture, the event invites drivers to participate in creative challenges or casual cruises, reinforcing the cultural and personal significance of motoring.

National Drive-Thru Day was created by Jack in the Box, one of the earliest fast-food chains to adopt the drive-thru model, to celebrate the convenience of drive-thru service. First appearing in the 1930s, drive-thrus gained major popularity in the 1950s and remain a staple of modern life. This day recognizes their role in shaping how people access food, drinks, and services—especially during busy schedules or public health challenges.

National Refreshment Day* (Fourth Thursday in July) was founded in 2015 by the Traveler Beer Company to highlight the importance of taking time to unwind during the peak of summer. While originally created to promote refreshing beverages, the day has come to represent a broader message about the value of rest, hydration, and balance in daily life. Refreshment can come in many forms—cold drinks, nourishing snacks, a break from the heat, or even a moment of mental pause. The day encourages people to slow down and recognize that small acts of care can help restore energy and focus, especially in the midst of busy or stressful periods.

National Tequila Day celebrates the distinct spirit made from the blue agave plant, native to specific regions in Mexico. Tequila’s roots trace back to pulque, an ancient fermented agave drink, and evolved with the introduction of distillation by Filipino migrants in the 1500s. Recognized as a symbol of Mexican heritage, tequila is protected as a geographic indication, and its production is regulated by Mexican law. The day offers an opportunity to explore the drink’s long standing history and cultural significance.

National Tell an Old Joke Day brings attention to classic forms of humor—dad jokes, knock-knock jokes, puns, and riddles that have stood the test of time. The day encourages people to share familiar jokes with friends and family, keeping laughter alive across generations. It’s a lighthearted reminder that humor doesn’t always have to be new to be effective.

National Thermal Engineer Day was founded in 2014 by Advanced Thermal Solutions, Inc. to recognize the professionals who manage heat in modern electronics and technology. Thermal engineers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and performance of devices used in industries such as aerospace, biomedical engineering, data centers, and consumer electronics. This day highlights the importance of thermal management and honors the contributions of those who make reliable technology possible.

Samaritans Awareness Day—also known as Talk to Us Day—was created by the UK-based charity Samaritans to promote emotional support for people in crisis. The organization was founded in 1953 by vicar Chad Varah, who launched one of the first suicide prevention helplines. Observed annually on July 24, the day raises awareness of the importance of active listening, mental health care, and the availability of confidential, 24/7 support through the Samaritans network.