October 26 National Days

October 26 is the 299th day of the year (300th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 66 days until the end of the year. Falling on a Saturday in the 43rd week, this day features 14 national and international observances covering a wide range of topics.

Here’s a closer look at the special days happening on October 26, each with a brief explanation.

Howl At The Moon Day: Celebrating wolves and their connection to the moon, this day encourages people to learn more about these majestic animals. Created in 2009 by Johnny DePalma, it also serves as a fun excuse to gather and embrace the wild spirit of Halloween week.

Muddy Dog Day* (Last Saturday of October): A fun day for dog lovers to celebrate their furry friends who love getting messy in the mud. As autumn rains begin, this light-hearted observance highlights those playful pups who can’t resist a good puddle.

National Chicken Fried Steak Day: Dedicated to a beloved Southern comfort food, this day celebrates chicken fried steak—a dish of tenderized beef steak, breaded and fried to crispy perfection. It’s a hearty favorite for many across the U.S.

National Financial Crime Fighter Day: Honoring the professionals who combat financial crimes like money laundering and fraud, this day acknowledges the important work of those protecting the integrity of the financial system under the Bank Secrecy Act and Anti-Money Laundering efforts.

National Make A Difference Day* (Fourth Saturday in October): One of the largest national days of community service, this day inspires individuals and organizations to come together and make a positive impact in their communities, big or small.

National Micro-needling Day: This day brings attention to the benefits of micro-needling treatments for skincare, particularly recognizing the Vivace® device by Aesthetics Biomedical. It highlights how this advanced procedure helps with skin rejuvenation.

National Mincemeat Day: Celebrating a traditional British holiday treat, mincemeat is a rich, spiced mixture of fruit and meat that dates back to the 15th century. The day honors this flavorful ingredient that has become a staple in holiday pies and desserts.

National Mule Day: Recognizing this intelligent, hardworking pack animal, Mule Day originated in Columbia, Tennessee, the “mule capital of the world.” Mules have played a vital role in agriculture and transportation, often misunderstood as stubborn when they are simply cautious.

National One United Race Day* (Fourth Saturday of October): This day promotes unity and a shared human experience, encouraging people to come together across racial and cultural divides. It emphasizes the vision of a world where humanity stands united against racism.

National Pitbull Awareness Day* (Last Saturday of October): Established by Bless the Bullys in 2007, this day raises awareness about the often misunderstood American Pit Bull Terrier. It focuses on promoting responsible ownership and educating the public to help break down stereotypes about the breed.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day* (Last Saturday of the months of April and October): This day promotes safe and anonymous disposal of unused or expired prescription medications to help prevent drug misuse and overdose. It’s a nationwide effort to make communities safer by reducing access to potentially dangerous drugs.

National Pumpkin Day: A celebration of one of autumn’s most iconic symbols, pumpkins! This day encourages people to enjoy all things pumpkin, from pies to lattes, and recognize the pumpkin’s significance in harvest celebrations.

National Tennessee Day: A day to honor the Volunteer State and its cultural heritage, from the Great Smoky Mountains to its deep ties to blues and country music. Tennessee’s history, art, and natural beauty are all celebrated on this special day.

National Trick or Treat Day* (Last Saturday of October): Held just before Halloween, this day encourages communities to enjoy the fun of trick-or-treating. It offers an extra opportunity for kids and families to dress up, gather candy, and enjoy spooky festivities in a safe and festive environment.