July 5 National Days

July 5 is the 186th day of the year (187th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 179 days remaining. Falling just after Independence Day in the United States, July 5 offers a mix of playful, reflective, and culturally rich observances—from mechanical pencils and bikinis to pet memorials and cherry pit spitting contests.

Some celebrations, such as National Play Outside Day, International Cherry Pit Spitting Day, and the International Day of Cooperatives, shift each year based on the weekday, while others are fixed on July 5.

Here’s a full overview of the 12 national and international days observed on July 5.

National and International Days on July 5

Mechanical Pencil Day honors one of the most practical and enduring writing tools used in classrooms, offices, and studios around the world. The first mechanical pencil with a refillable lead mechanism was patented in 1822 by Sampson Mordan and John Isaac Hawkins in Britain. Though digital tools dominate today, this observance brings attention back to the joy and precision of handwritten work.

✏️ See also our complete list of stationery-related national days.

National Apple Turnover Day invites everyone to enjoy a sweet, hand-held pie filled with apples and wrapped in flaky pastry. Apple turnovers, sometimes called “hand pies,” date back to at least the 17th century and have remained popular for their portability and flavor.

National Bikini Day celebrates the anniversary of the modern bikini, first introduced in Paris on July 5, 1946. Named after the Bikini Atoll, the swimsuit was designed by Louis Réard, who hoped to make an “explosive” impact on fashion. The revealing two-piece was so controversial at the time that many countries banned it. Today, the bikini is a staple of summer fashion and represents a cultural shift in attitudes toward body image and personal freedom.

National Graham Cracker Day shines a spotlight on the subtly sweet cracker first created as part of a health reform movement. In the 19th century, Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham promoted the use of whole wheat flour to create what we now know as the graham cracker. His goal was to support moral and physical well-being. Today, graham crackers are more closely associated with s’mores and desserts than with dietary reform, but their origin story remains a fascinating piece of culinary history.

National Workaholics Day reminds people to step back from the grind and focus on balance. This day recognizes those who prioritize work above all else and often struggle to take breaks, delegate tasks, or switch off. While hard work is admirable, burnout is real. This observance calls attention to the need for rest, personal time, and mental health awareness—especially in fast-paced or demanding careers.

🧠 Use this day as a reminder to reassess priorities and build healthier routines. Download one of the free 18 wheel of life templates to help you assess your life and take first steps in gaining more balance.

National Play Outside Day* (First Saturday of every month): Created in 2011 by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta, this monthly event encourages children and adults alike to head outdoors and reconnect with unstructured play. It promotes physical health, creativity, and social bonding through simple outdoor fun like games, walks, or picnics. The July observance is a great way to spend time outside after holiday celebrations.

Pet Remembrance Day was started in the UK by Pets Magazine and artist Lars Anderson of Arty Lobster. It offers a moment to honor beloved pets that have passed away and to celebrate the joy and companionship they brought into our lives. This day is often marked by sharing photos, lighting candles, or simply recalling fond memories.

International Cherry Pit Spitting Day* (First Saturday in July): Began in 1974 when Herb Teichman hosted a cherry pit spitting contest on his Michigan farm. What started as a humorous picnic event has grown into an international tradition, often coinciding with the start of the tart cherry harvest in the Midwest. The current world record is over 90 feet, showing that this quirky contest is no joke for serious spitters.

Work Without Your Hands Day was inspired by the animated show SpongeBob SquarePants, specifically an episode where SpongeBob completes tasks without using his hands. It encourages people to rethink their usual habits, challenge themselves creatively, and appreciate the potential of their bodies. While silly on the surface, it’s also a reminder of how we adapt and find new ways to solve problems.

National Hop-A-Park Day* (First Saturday in July): Encourages everyone to explore nearby parks and green spaces. Whether you’re playing frisbee, reading under a tree, or simply walking through nature, spending time outdoors benefits both mental and physical health. The day promotes local parks as community hubs and makes time in nature more accessible for people without private yards.

International Day of Cooperatives* (First Saturday in July): Celebrates the economic and social contributions of cooperatives around the world. These member-owned businesses aim to meet shared goals and needs, and operate under principles like democratic control and community benefit. The UN recognized this observance in 1995, marking 100 years since the founding of the International Cooperative Alliance. Each year carries a theme that reflects the movement’s impact on issues like sustainability, equity, and innovation.

National Hawaii Day highlights the natural beauty, history, and culture of the 50th U.S. state. This observance celebrates the diverse landscapes and traditions of the Hawaiian islands—from volcanoes and surfing to hula and native heritage. While another Hawaii-themed day also exists on June 27, this date offers a second chance to reflect on Hawaii’s contributions to the nation and the world.