July 31 National Days

July 31 is the 213th day of the year (214th in leap years), with 152 days remaining until the end of the year.

This date offers a surprising variety of observances, from global efforts like World Ranger Day and National Mutt Day, to more playful and fan-based celebrations like Harry Potter’s Birthday.

It also includes date-shifting holidays such as National Intern Day, National Chili Dog Day, and Digital Adoption Professionals Day, all observed on the last Thursday in July.

Here’s a closer look at the 13 national and international days celebrated on July 31 with short explanations for each observation.

National and International Days on July 31

Black Tot Day marks the end of a 300-year-old Royal Navy tradition—the daily rum ration, known as the “tot.” On July 31, 1970, the British Royal Navy officially discontinued this practice, deeming it incompatible with the needs of a modern navy. The tot once served as a morale booster and was believed to help with health concerns like scurvy.

Harry Potter’s Birthday is celebrated on July 31—the same day as author J.K. Rowling’s birthday. Fans of the wizarding world use this day to revisit the books and movies, dress up in robes, or enjoy themed activities. Harry James Potter, born in 1980 in the fictional village of Godric’s Hollow, would be in his mid-40s today. The day also highlights Rowling’s debut novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which introduced readers to a world that continues to inspire millions.

🧙 See our full list of national days dedicated to Harry Potter.

International Digital Adoption (DAP) Professionals Day* (Last Thursday in July) was founded in 2020 by WalkMe to honor professionals who help organizations implement and integrate digital tools effectively. These behind-the-scenes experts support digital transformation by ensuring technology is not just installed but fully adopted and used as intended. Their work plays a crucial role in maximizing the value of digital investments across industries.

International Lifeguard Appreciation Day was launched in 2020 by aquatic safety firm Ellis & Associates to recognize the lifeguards worldwide. Often seen as just sunbathers in swimsuits, lifeguards are in fact highly trained safety professionals. They monitor water activities, prevent accidents, respond to emergencies, and ensure sanitary pool conditions. This day reminds us of the vital role lifeguards play in public safety at beaches, pools, and waterparks.

National Avocado Day was created in 2017 by Model Meals, a California-based meal delivery company focused on organic, sustainable food. The day celebrates the avocado—a fruit prized for its creamy texture, nutritional value, and culinary versatility. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, and are used in everything from guacamole to smoothies. National Avocado Day encourages people to explore creative ways to enjoy this popular superfood during its peak growing season.

National Chili Dog Day* (Last Thursday in July) invites hot dog lovers to turn up the heat with a meaty topping. A chili dog typically features a grilled hot dog served in a bun and topped with chili con carne, often alongside cheese, onions, or mustard. While the dish varies by region, it remains a staple of American summer cuisine. This food day wraps up National Hot Dog Month by celebrating one of its boldest and most flavorful creations.

National Intern Day* (Last Thursday in July) was started in 2017 by WayUp, a career platform for students and recent graduates. The day acknowledges the important contributions interns make in a wide range of industries. Internships offer young professionals a chance to gain real-world experience, build skills, and explore career paths. On this day, employers are encouraged to support and celebrate their interns and reflect on how internships can strengthen future workforce pipelines.

National Jump for Jelly Beans Day is a playful celebration of the small, chewy candy that’s been enjoyed in the U.S. for over a century. While its origins are unclear, the day encourages people to not only eat jelly beans but also “jump for joy” in their honor. These colorful treats come in a wide range of flavors and are especially popular during holidays like Easter.

🍬 Related observance: National Jelly Bean Day on April 22.

National Mutt Day, observed twice a year on July 31 and December 2, encourages the adoption of mixed-breed dogs and celebrates the loyalty and uniqueness of mutts. It was founded in 2005 by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige to raise awareness about the millions of mixed-breed dogs in shelters waiting for loving homes. Mutts may not come with pedigrees, but they offer just as much love and companionship as purebreds.

National Raspberry Cake Day gives this refreshing, fruity dessert its moment in the spotlight. Raspberries are in peak season during the summer, making July 31 the perfect time to enjoy a cool slice of raspberry cake. Whether layered with cream, folded into batter, or served chilled, raspberry cake is a seasonal favorite in many American households.

Shredded Wheat Day honors one of the earliest ready-to-eat cereals in the United States. Invented by Henry Perky in the early 1890s as a digestive aid, shredded wheat was introduced at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and quickly gained popularity. Perky’s unique method of shaping cooked wheat into pillow-like biscuits led to mass production and long-lasting commercial success.

Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day encourages curiosity about rare, experimental, or culturally unique musical instruments. Celebrated annually on July 31, the day invites people to learn about sounds they may never have heard—from the nyckelharpa of Sweden to the theremin or waterphone. Musicians and educators often use this day to showcase the variety of global musical traditions and inspire creative expression beyond the mainstream.

World Ranger Day pays tribute to the critical work park rangers perform across the globe. Established in 2007 by the International Ranger Federation and The Thin Green Line Foundation, this observance recognizes rangers who protect wildlife, enforce conservation laws, and educate the public. July 31 also honors rangers who have been injured or lost their lives in the line of duty. The day raises awareness about the risks and challenges rangers face in safeguarding the world’s natural and cultural heritage.