1

Stevie Wonder

Image: Osman Rana

The musical genius behind hits like "Superstition" and "Isn't She Lovely," Stevie Wonder, was born Stevland Hardaway Judkins.

Blind from infancy, he was a child prodigy, signed to Motown Records at just 11 years old. They decided to rebrand him as "Little Stevie Wonder." Isn’t that how a legend gets made?

2

Muhammad Ali

Image: engin akyurt

"The Greatest," Muhammad Ali, known for his legendary boxing career and his outspoken personality, was born Cassius Clay.

After converting to Islam, he refused to keep his birth name and rebranded himself as Muhammad Ali. He floated like a butterfly, stung like a bee, and certainly wasn't shy about making a statement!

3

Whoopi Goldberg

Image: asim alnamat

The hilarious and outspoken Whoopi Goldberg, known for her roles in films like The Color Purple and Ghost , was called Caryn Elaine Johnson at birth.

If her name reminds you of a Whoopee Cushion, here’s where you learn that that was intentional. Her friends called her that –Whoopi Cushion– and she wanted it to be her stage name, but her mom convinced her to take herself more seriously and use one of her family surnames, Goldberg.

4

Lady Gaga

Image: Hrayr Movsisyan

The queen of pop, Lady Gaga, known for her outrageous fashion style and catchy hits like "Bad Romance" and "Born This Way," was born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. Elegant, but still a mouthful when you are trying to become the next Madonna.

While designing her legendary persona, she was inspired by the Queen song "Radio Ga Ga," and she stuck with that name. It does fit her theatrical aesthetic much better than Stefani Germanotta, doesn't it?

5

Prince

Image: ROMBO

This one is less of a story than you might imagine —Prince’s first name was, indeed, Prince. The Purple One was born Prince Rogers Nelson, just like his father, a jazz musician who performed under the stage name "Prince Rogers." So, that name was taken.

He rose to fame as simply "Prince," although some remember him as "The Artist Formerly Known as Prince (TAFKAP)," which he established as his name after a dispute with Warner Bros Records.

6

Bob Dylan

Image: Samuel Ramos

The voice of a generation, Bob Dylan, known for his poetic lyrics and iconic songs like "Blowin' in the Wind," was born Robert Allen Zimmerman.

Did he choose the name after Dylan Thomas? No, the musician eventually confessed he’d never read much of the poet. Toying around with his first surname, Allen, Bob had been trying to decide whether to call himself "Bob Allen" or "Bob Allyn," until he realized "Dylan" was, in his words, stronger.

7

Meg Ryan

Image: Kit Suman

America's sweetheart, Meg Ryan, known for her roles in romantic comedies like Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail , was born Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra.

When you have such a long name, you have to make some decisions. She first presented herself as "Margaret Hyra", but when registering for the Screen Actors Guild, Margaret became Meg, and her dad’s surname was replaced by the maiden name of her grandma, Ryan.

8

Demi Moore

Image: Bruno Mattos

Actress Demi Moore was born Demetria Gene Guynes. She shortened her first name to Demi when she began her acting career and adopted the surname Moore from her first husband, Freddy Moore.

The Moores eventually separated, but Demi decided to carry the surname on throughout her career.

9

Brad Pitt

Image: Amjith S

Did you know that Brad Pitt might easily have been known as "Bill Pitt"? Or "Willy Pitt"? We surely prefer Brad!

Hollywood’s heartthrob was born William Bradley Pitt. Early in his career, he presented himself with his full name, but eventually, he dropped the "William." He went on to become a multi-awarded and beloved movie star and producer.

10

Winona Ryder

Image: Elviss Railijs Bitāns

The quirky and talented Winona Ryder, known for her roles in films like Beetlejuice and Girl, Interrupted , was born Winona Laura Horowitz.

Why did she choose "Ryder" for her movie credits? She says that she picked the name out of a Mitch Ryder record her dad loved. Seems whimsical, but remember: She was only a teenager when she rose to fame!

11

Emma Stone

Image: Mirko Fabian

Academy Award-winning actress Emma Stone, known for her roles in films like La La Land and Easy A , was born Emily Jean Stone.

She would have signed up with her real name proudly, but when she went to register with the Screen Actors Guild, she found that Emily Stone was taken. She decided to go for the next best thing and name herself after her favorite Spice Girl, Emma Bunton.

1

Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day

Image: Adam Sherez

Let’s kick off this list with a day that nobody ever imagined would be a thing, but here we are nonetheless! Have you ever heard of cows taking to the skies? Well, in 1930, that became true. A cow named Elm Farm Ollie became the first to fly in an airplane and be milked while airborne! This curious day, observed on February 18th, honors Ollie’s mile-high milking session.

You might be wondering why they did this in the first place. It was actually a scientific experiment to test the cow’s ability to produce milk during flight. And it was great publicity for the aircraft they used to do it. A classic win-win, and a quirky holiday on the side!

2

Namesake Day

Image: Jamie Street

Do you know that feeling when you walk up to a certain group for the first time and, among the introductions, you discover someone shares your name? You may not have anything else in common with that person, but the invisible string is there and that’s thanks to having the same name.

In our country, there’s even a day dedicated to celebrating our namesakes . That is every first Saturday in March, though the reason or origin behind this day remains unclear. However, it is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our shared identities.

3

Sock Monkey Day

Image: Denisse Leon

This list is getting crazier and crazier and don’t say you weren’t warned! But isn’t it fun to learn that there is a National Sock Monkey Day in our country? This holiday celebrates one of America’s quirkiest homemade toys: the sock monkey!

Traditionally made from Rockford Red Heel socks, these little guys have been around since the 1890s, although some also say that they were the result of the Great Depression.

Regardless, when can you celebrate this charming tradition? March 7th is the official day to honor this cheerful craft. It’s a day for making, gifting, or simply hugging a sock monkey in appreciation. With a little patience and a pair of old socks, you might even make one yourself! Embrace your inner child and get crafty on Sock Monkey Day!

4

National Senior Citizens Day

Image: Clay Banks

This one is not crazy at all! If anything, this one should be a must-celebrate for everyone! August 21st is all about recognizing the wisdom and experience that come with age. Established by President Reagan in 1988, National Senior Citizens Day encourages respect and appreciation for older generations.

Now, what motivated this holiday? As medical technology improved over time, life expectancy increased dramatically. While it was common to live for 30 years in the Late Middle Ages, by the 20th century, people were reaching 50 or even 60 years. That progress alone was reason enough to celebrate—and thus, this special day was born!

5

National Fried Chicken Day

Image: Tyson

If we gave you thirty seconds to name the most American things you can think of, how long would it take for fried chicken to make your list? It would probably be the second or third item on your list, right? Well, now you can see why fried chicken has a national day too!

July 6th is National Fried Chicken Day, a day to revel in one of America’s tastiest comfort foods! From crispy Southern-style to spicy Nashville hot, fried chicken has a place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. The origins of fried chicken are a blend of Scottish and West African cooking traditions, but today it’s an American staple.

Not that we need much of a reason to have a nice bucket of fried chicken, but isn’t it extra special to indulge on its very own day?

6

Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Image: Nathan Dumlao

Don’t we all do that every single day of our lives? So, what makes this a special holiday? Put on Your Own Shoes Day on December 6th may seem simple, but when you read into it, you’ll find it’s a subtle nod to independence.

The truth is information regarding the origins of this day is not abundant, but we can confidently say that it’s more of a symbolic celebration. It’s a day to help our little ones learn how to tie their shoes, or maybe take their first steps. It’s also a metaphor that, adults as we are, we have made it this far, after all, independence comes in many forms, even lacing up your shoes! So, walk proudly on this quirky holiday and celebrate your strides toward independence!

7

National Ghost Hunting Day

Image: Erik Müller

No, this is not the same as Halloween, of course. But, if you may, it’s kind of a warm-up for the spooky season, since this one takes place on the last Saturday in September, exactly a month before Halloween, making it the perfect prelude to all things eerie.

For those who enjoy a good scare , National Ghost Hunting Day was created in 2016 and is perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal. Groups often venture to "haunted" spots armed with flashlights, cameras, and a lot of curiosity. It’s also a chance to explore local legends and folklore about ghosts and spirits. Even if you stay home, you can participate by watching a ghost-hunting show. Get your flashlight ready and have a ghoulishly good time!

8

National Nothing Day

Image: Edwin Splisser

What? That’s right, this one is indeed a National Day and it has been ever since 1973 when Harold Coffin, an American newspaper columnist suggested that there were too many useless commemorative days . This is getting meta, don’t you think?

Anyway, National Nothing Day is celebrated every January 16th, and it is, quite literally, a day to do absolutely nothing! It was originally conceived as a way to avoid celebrations, this day offers a "holiday from holidays." There are no obligations, no parades, and no need to mark the occasion in any way. In short, this day is a license to relax. You may be wondering what should you do to celebrate and the answer is right there: Nothing!

9

National Spaghetti Day

Image: Jeswin Thomas

Spaghetti is not exclusive to America, it’s a dish gifted to the world by the Italians. But America, with its classic intense feelings about the things that make it great, felt the need to create a day specifically designed to have a delicious bowl of Spaghetti . And honestly? We love it!

January 4th is National Spaghetti Day, a pasta dream come true! The best part is that there are as many variations and toppings as there are people who enjoy it. Whether you love it with marinara, meatballs, or pesto, there’s a recipe for everyone.

Many celebrate by whipping up a pasta dish or visiting their favorite Italian restaurant. Whatever you choose, twirl some spaghetti and toast to this delicious day!

10

National If Pets Had Thumbs Day

Image: Jamie Street

Imagine if your cat could open the fridge or your dog could hitchhike! If only, right?

March 3rd is National If Pets Had Thumbs Day in our country, a humorous look at what life would be like if pets had opposable thumbs.

The day makes us all wonder about the possibilities, and maybe even the mischief if we know our furry friends, of a more skillful pet . What would be the first thing you’d do? Some pet owners share funny stories or create scenarios imagining what their pets might do with that extra dexterity.

This holiday is all about celebrating the quirks and charm of our pets. Get ready to laugh, because a thumbs-up from your pet might be closer than ever!

1

Ray Bradbury

Image: Rod Long

Perhaps the most emblematic name in American science fiction, Ray Bradbury was an author and screenwriter best known for his novel Fahrenheit 451 , and his short story collections The Martian Chronicles , and The Illustrated Man .

His works not only imagine what extraterrestrial colonies might be like but also explore how such experiences would affect humans on a deeply personal level. His prose is both poetic and informative, making it accessible to both young and adult readers alike.

2

Philip K. Dick

Image: Filip Filkovic Philatz

If you’ve ever seen the movie Blade Runner or the TV series The Man in the High Castle , then you’ve been exposed to the work of Philip K. Dick. This prolific novelist wrote numerous novels and short stories that explore philosophical and social questions such as the nature of reality, human nature, and characters struggling against illusory environments, monopolistic corporations, and authoritarian governments.

His novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? was the basis for Blade Runner and his works have earned him countless awards all over the world.

3

William Gibson

Image: Brian McGowan

The creator of the now-ubiquitous term "cyberspace," William Gibson was a speculative fiction writer whose works explore the effects of technology, cybernetics, and computer networks on humans (fans of Black Mirror will likely find this author to their liking).

His first novel, Neuromancer , was credited with revitalizing science fiction literature in the 1980s, and he was described in 1999 as "probably the most important novelist of the past two decades.

4

L. Ron Hubbard

Image: Luna Wang

"While he is now more famous for founding Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard was a genuine science fiction writer who authored works such as Battlefield Earth, To the Stars, Buckskin Brigades, and Death’s Deputy , among other titles.

Hubbard was quite a prolific pulp science fiction and fantasy writer in his early career and, in 1950, he published Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health , establishing organizations to promote and practice Dianetics techniques.

5

Theodore Sturgeon

Image: Rod Long

A critic turned writer, Theodore Sturgeon wrote over 120 short stories, 11 novels, and even a handful of scripts for the original Star Trek television series. His first science fiction novel, More Than Human , won the 1954 International Fantasy Award for that year's best novel.

Though he was not as well known to the general public as contemporaries like Isaac Asimov or Ray Bradbury, Sturgeon gained recognition among readers of mid-20th-century science fiction anthologies. At the height of his popularity in the 1950s, he was the most anthologized English-language author alive.

6

Alfred Bester

Image: Steve Johnson

One of the few writers credited with inventing modern science fiction, according to one of his colleagues, Alfred Bester was an author, TV, radio, and comics scriptwriter, and magazine editor. His novel, The Demolished Man , was the first winner of the Hugo Awards in 1953.

While working as a scriptwriter for DC Comics, he created the supervillain Solomon Grundy and also wrote extensively for television, magazines, and radio.

7

H. P. Lovecraft

Image: Alejandro Piñero Amerio

An author whose work is as famous in the science fiction genre as it is in horror, H. P. Lovecraft was a writer of science fiction, fantasy, horror fiction, and a mixture of all these genres. His most notable work is the Cthulhu Mythos .

Some of his more popular works include The Call of Cthulhu, At the Mountains of Madness, The Shadow over Innsmouth , and The Shadow Out of Time . The central theme of his books is cosmicism, a theory dictating that "there is no recognizable divine presence, such as a god, in the universe, and that humans are particularly insignificant in the larger scheme of intergalactic existence."

8

Frank Herbert

Image: Pierre Bamin

Franklin Patrick Herbert Jr. is best known for writing the best-selling science fiction novel of all time, 1965's Dune , along with its five sequels. He also wrote short stories and worked as a newspaper journalist, photographer, book reviewer, ecological consultant, and lecturer.

His famous saga, set in the distant future and spanning millennia, explores complex themes, such as the long-term survival of the human species, human evolution, planetary science and ecology, and the intersection of religion, politics, economics, sex, and power in a future where humanity has long since developed interstellar travel and colonized thousands of worlds.

9

Ursula K. Le Guin

Image: Karsten Klemme

With a literary career spanning nearly sixty years, Ursula Kroeber Le Guin is another legendary name on this list. She is best known for her works of speculative fiction, including science fiction works set in her Hainish universe and the Earthsea fantasy series.

Frequently described as a science fiction author, Le Guin has also been called a "major voice in American letters," though she once said she would prefer to be known as an "American novelist."

10

Orson Scott Card

Image: Greg Rakozy

The only person to have won a Hugo Award and a Nebula Award in consecutive years, both for his novel Ender’s Game , and its sequel, Speaker for the Dead , Orson Scott Card is a science fiction writer who often features characters with exceptional gifts who make difficult choices with high stakes. Since 1979, he has published over 50 novels and 45 short stories.

During his childhood, Card read children's classics and popular novels, his favorite book being Mark Twain's The Prince and the Pauper . He often refers to works by Robert A. Heinlein and J. R. R. Tolkien as sources of inspiration.