June 18 National Days

June 18 is the 169th day of the year (170th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 196 days until the end of the year. This date brings together national days that celebrate neurodiversity, sustainable eating, travel, aquariums, mental health awareness, and more—offering something for just about every interest.

Today’s observances all fall on the same day each year.

Here’s a full overview of the 10 national and international days observed on June 18.

National and International Days on June 18

Autistic Pride Day: Started in 2005 by the group Aspies for Freedom, Autistic Pride Day was created to promote visibility, acceptance, and celebration of autistic identity. The founders chose June 18 to honor the birthday of the group’s youngest member at the time. Unlike awareness days driven by outside organizations, this day is led by the autistic community itself.

💡 It complements other observances like World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and Autism Acceptance Month in April.

Clean Your Aquarium Day: Observed annually on June 18, this day encourages aquarium owners to clean and maintain their tanks to support healthy aquatic life. Tasks often include gravel vacuuming, algae removal, water changes, and filter upkeep. It’s one of many cleaning and organizing-related national days that remind us of the importance of routine care—this time, for our underwater companions.

International Day for Countering Hate Speech: This United Nations observance draws attention to the rise and impact of hate speech, especially when amplified through digital media. It has roots in global responses to harmful rhetoric dating back to the early 20th century, with growing focus after events like the Oklahoma City bombing. The day recognizes how hate speech not only incites violence but also fosters environments that enable harm, and it promotes education, dialogue, and human rights as tools for prevention.

International Panic Day: A mock holiday with a serious undertone, International Panic Day invites people to acknowledge stress, fear, and mental overload—then let go of it. The day serves as a reminder to address mental health openly and without stigma, highlighting the importance of emotional awareness and self-care. It has been embraced as a global opportunity to discuss panic disorders, stress management, and mental health challenges in general.

International Picnic Day: While no official founder is documented, International Picnic Day encourages people to enjoy outdoor meals in nature. The modern idea of a picnic emerged during the French Revolution, when public parks became more accessible. Today, the day is seen as a global nudge to slow down, gather with friends or family, and embrace the simplicity of food shared outside.

International Sushi Day: Founded in 2009 by Chris DeMay, this day celebrates all things sushi. While sushi’s roots go back to ancient Southeast Asia as a method of fish preservation, its most recognizable modern form—nigiri—was developed by Hanaya Yohei in early 19th-century Japan. Today’s celebration encourages trying different sushi styles, learning its history, and supporting sushi chefs and Japanese culinary culture.

National Go Fishing Day: Also known as National Fishing Day, this annual celebration on June 18 invites everyone to take a break, grab a rod, and head to the nearest body of water. The day promotes relaxation, connection with nature, and the traditional joy of fishing.

🐟 It’s one of several fishing-related observances, including National Hunting and Fishing Day (fourth Saturday in September) and National Fish Day on August 27.

National Splurge Day: Created in 1994 by Adrienne Sioux Koopersmith, this day is a lighthearted excuse to treat yourself. Whether it’s a fancy coffee or a weekend getaway, National Splurge Day reminds us to occasionally invest in joy, pleasure, and celebration of the self. It also subtly encourages consumer spending as a nod to economic stimulation.

National Wanna Get Away Day: Established in 2021 by Southwest Airlines to mark their 50th anniversary, this day celebrates the freedom and fun of travel. The name comes from the airline’s iconic “Wanna Get Away” campaign launched in 1996. Celebrated annually on June 18, the day inspires people to plan future trips, dream about new adventures, and take time to connect with distant places and loved ones.

Sustainable Gastronomy Day: Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2016, Sustainable Gastronomy Day is observed each year on June 18 to promote food practices that are environmentally friendly, culturally respectful, and socially inclusive. The observance encourages seasonal eating, support for local producers, and the protection of traditional culinary knowledge. It became especially relevant following the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing climate challenges, serving as a reminder that what we eat affects both people and the planet.