July 30 National Days

July 30 is the 211th day of the year (212th in leap years), with 154 days remaining until the end of the year.

Today’s observances reflect serious global concerns as well as personal connections. From advocating for human rights with World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and National Whistleblower Day, to uplifting relationships through International Day of Friendship, National Father-In-Law Day and Share a Hug Day, this date brings deep meaning and emotional reflection. At the same time, there’s plenty of joy to be found—National Cheesecake Day and World Snorkeling Day add flavor and fun to the mix.

Here’s a closer look at the 9 national and international days celebrated on July 30 with short explanations for each observation.

National and International Days on July 30

International Day of Friendship was officially proclaimed by the United Nations in 2011 to promote peace and build bridges between individuals, cultures, and nations. While earlier versions of Friendship Day emerged as early as 1919, the UN revived it with a clear mission: to foster understanding and solidarity in an increasingly interconnected world. The day encourages people to reach beyond cultural or national borders and nurture mutual respect through meaningful friendships.

👯‍♀️ This day should not be confused with National Friendship Day, which is celebrated on the first Sunday of August.

National Cheesecake Day invites everyone to enjoy a slice of one of the world’s most enduring desserts. Cheesecake’s history stretches back to ancient Greece, where it was made with cheese, honey, and wheat. The Romans expanded its popularity across Europe, and centuries later, the American version took shape when cream cheese—accidentally invented by dairyman William Lawrence in the 19th century—became the base of what we now know as New York-style cheesecake. Today, cheesecakes come in countless flavors and styles, enjoyed by dessert lovers around the globe.

National Father-In-Law Day offers a chance to recognize and spend time with your spouse’s father. Whether they’ve welcomed you with open arms or built a bond over time, fathers-in-law play a unique role in extended family life. The day celebrates the support, wisdom, and humor they bring to family gatherings and daily life. It’s a reminder to acknowledge the broader family connections that shape our relationships.

National Support Public Education Day was launched in 2010 by Illinois teacher Chris Janotta and the SOS Million Teacher March movement. The goal was to bring national attention to underfunding, teacher burnout, and the overuse of standardized testing. The first events included marches and symbolic actions like collecting shoelaces to represent unity and strength. Observed annually on July 30, the day emphasizes that public education relies on community involvement year-round—not just during the school year.

National Whistleblower Day commemorates July 30, 1778, when the Continental Congress passed the first U.S. whistleblower protection law. The resolution honored sailors and marines who reported abuses by a superior officer, declaring it the duty of all Americans to report misconduct. The day recognizes the importance of whistleblowers—individuals who report wrongdoing despite the risks they may face. While laws now offer some legal protections, whistleblowers still carry heavy burdens, making this observance essential to promoting accountability and transparency.

Paperback Book Day celebrates the format that made literature more portable and affordable. Although softcover books existed earlier, the modern paperback revolution began in 1935 with the founding of Penguin Books in the UK by Allen Lane. His goal was to bring quality literature to the masses at a lower cost. The success of this format soon spread, leading to the rise of paperback publishing in the United States with Pocket Books. On July 30, readers are encouraged to pick up a paperback, discover a new story, and appreciate the lasting impact of this accessible book format.

Share a Hug Day was created by Mike Brundritt in memory of his wife and son, who died in a tragic car accident. Wanting to turn heartbreak into healing, Mike shared one of his family’s most cherished traditions—giving hugs freely and often. This day encourages acts of kindness, compassion, and connection, recognizing that something as simple as a hug can offer comfort, joy, and emotional support during difficult times. It’s a reminder to never take a moment or loved one for granted.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons was established by the United Nations in 2013 to raise awareness about human trafficking and strengthen global efforts to combat it. Trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion, often for labor or sexual purposes. Victims endure extreme trauma and abuse, frequently isolated from the outside world. This day calls on governments, communities, and individuals to take action—supporting prevention efforts, assisting survivors, and demanding justice for this form of modern slavery.

World Snorkeling Day honors the spirit of underwater exploration and the invention of early snorkeling devices, particularly the 1932 patent filed by Joseph L. Belcher. Celebrated on July 30, the day encourages people to discover marine life up close and support ocean conservation. Snorkeling requires minimal equipment—a mask, a snorkel, and swim fins—and offers a way for people of all ages to engage with the ocean. From coral reefs to coastal waters, it invites appreciation of marine ecosystems and reinforces the importance of protecting them for future generations.