October 28, 2026 is the 301st day of the year, with 64 days left, and it falls on a Wednesday in the 44th ISO week. It’s also the 140th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty’s dedication, which is a nice anchor for the day.
With 8 national and international days on the calendar, Wednesday pairs history and civic pride with sweet treats, from Statue of Liberty Dedication Day and National Immigrants Day to National Chocolate Day and Plush Animal Lover’s Day. Here’s the story behind every celebration on October 28, from International Animation Day to Wild Foods Day.
National Days on October 28
All national & international days celebrated today
8 celebrations on this day Day 301 of 365 · 64 days left · week 44 · Scorpio season · 🌖 waning gibbousStatue of Liberty Dedication Day
On October 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland dedicated the statue, a gift from France. 2026 marks the 140th anniversary.
International Animation Day
ASIFA picked the date to mark Émile Reynaud’s first public animation screening, held in Paris on October 28, 1892.
National Chocolate Day
Chocolate comes from the seeds of the cacao tree, which grows in Mexico, Central America and northern South America.
Wild Foods Day
Encourages foraging for wild edibles and learning to identify and prepare them safely, with respect for natural habitats.
National & International Days on October 28
Here’s a closer look at the special days happening on October 28, each with a brief explanation.
International Animation Day
International Animation Day honors animation as a creative form of storytelling and expression. Founded in 2002 by the International Animated Film Association (ASIFA), the observance marks the anniversary of Charles-Émile Reynaud’s groundbreaking 1892 presentation of moving images at the Musée Grévin in Paris—one of the earliest public showings of animated film. Supported by UNESCO, the day recognizes animation as both an artistic and educational medium that connects people across cultures through imagination, movement, and visual storytelling.
National Chocolate Day
National Chocolate Day celebrates chocolate in all its forms, from truffles and bars to cakes and drinks. The observance began in the United States through confectionery groups that promoted food-themed celebrations. The National Confectioners Association later recognized October 28 as the official date, giving chocolate an annual moment of appreciation. While World Chocolate Day on July 7 celebrates chocolate globally, National Chocolate Day focuses on its place within the United States
National First Responders Day
National First Responders Day honors the men and women who rush to help during emergencies—police officers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and dispatchers. The observance recognizes their courage, quick decision-making, and the personal risks they face while protecting others. It also remembers those who lost their lives in service and draws attention to the emotional and physical challenges that come with the job. The United States Senate officially recognized the day in 2019, following an earlier resolution introduced in 2017 to acknowledge the vital role first responders play in keeping communities safe.
National Immigrants Day
National Immigrants Day honors the millions of people who have come to the United States from around the world, seeking new opportunities and contributing to the country’s growth. It reminds people that the nation’s diversity and strength are built on generations of immigrants who brought their skills, traditions, and dreams to a new home. The observance was officially proclaimed in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan to coincide with the anniversary of the Statue of Liberty’s unveiling—a lasting symbol of freedom, welcome, and hope for those arriving on America’s shores.
National Internal Medicine Day
National Internal Medicine Day honors the physicians who specialize in adult healthcare, known as internists. The American College of Physicians (ACP) founded this observance in 2019 to recognize their essential role in diagnosing, treating, and managing complex or long-term medical conditions. Internists use deep scientific knowledge and clinical judgment to understand how different systems in the body interact, often guiding other doctors in difficult cases. Beyond patient care, many internists contribute to research, medical education, and health policy, helping shape the future of medicine.
Plush Animal Lover’s Day
Plush Animal Lover’s Day was likely created by Royal Selangor, a collectibles dealer, in the 1980s. This lighthearted observance invites people to appreciate their love for stuffed animals — from classic teddy bears to one-of-a-kind plush toys. It reminds us that these soft companions can bring comfort and hold sentimental value long after childhood.
Wild Foods Day
Wild Foods Day highlights the value of natural, foraged foods and the deep connection humans share with the land. It encourages people to rediscover the plants, berries, nuts, and mushrooms that grow freely in nature—foods that sustained people long before farming or supermarkets existed. The observance promotes awareness of biodiversity and sustainable food sources, reminding us that nature provides nourishment when treated with respect. By recognizing wild foods, the day also teaches the importance of protecting natural habitats and learning how to identify edible species safely.
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National Days in October
