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

Reagan: Breaking the glass ceiling

Image: Library of Congress

Although the numbers are still unequal, women occupy decision-making positions every day. They play an active role in political life, but that wasn’t always the case.

Ronald Reagan made a bold move for gender equality by nominating Sandra Day O'Connor to the Supreme Court in 1981. This historic decision marked the first time a woman would serve on the highest court in the country.

O'Connor’s nomination was a landmark moment for women’s rights, opening doors for future generations. Reagan’s choice was both strategic and symbolic, of course. It was a significant step toward inclusivity in the judiciary. Sandra Day O’Connor went on to serve with distinction, becoming a pivotal figure in many key rulings.

2

Johnson: A historic appointment

Image: Library of Congress

America has already seen a black president, but even that marked a significant turning point in history. However, Black men in such high government positions weren’t a reality until 1967 when Lyndon B. Johnson appointed Thurgood Marshall as the first Black Supreme Court Justice . In the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality in the U.S., this was a monumental step.

At the time, Marshall was already a legendary figure for his role in Brown v. Board of Education, and his appointment brought a powerful voice to the court. It was a clear signal of the administration’s commitment to racial justice. Marshall served on the court for 24 years! Talk about leaving a mark, huh?

3

Roosevelt: The star of the show

Image: Library of Congress

We can’t get enough of our TVs today, right? But this device was once an innovation, and one can easily imagine how surprising it must have been to see a president on screen for the first time!

In 1939, Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first U.S. president to appear on television during the World’s Fair in New York.

It’s not that he had gone unnoticed, FDR was already a radio sensation with his "fireside chats," but the television debut marked a new era of presidential communication. This historic moment allowed Americans to not only hear but also see their president, making FDR an even more influential figure.

4

Adams: Picture perfect

Image: Library of Congress

People take pictures of everything, everywhere, all the time today. Photos are like our business cards on social media and even in our job profiles, but it wasn’t always like that. And John Quincy Adams was part of a photography milestone.

Adams wasn’t just a former president, he holds the prize for first presidential photography . In 1843, he became the first president to have his photograph taken, although it was after his term had ended. Before Adams, presidents were immortalized through paintings, but his photo brought a new sense of realism to how leaders were remembered. Was he, by any chance, the first influencer?

5

Hayes: A direct line to history

Image: Library of Congress

What would we do without our telephones? It’s like we can’t imagine our lives without them anymore, right? But have you ever wondered who was the first president to have a phone in the White House ?

In 1877, Rutherford B. Hayes ushered the presidential residence into the age of technology by installing the first telephone. Of course, this was far from the smartphones we use today, but it was quite revolutionary at the time.

Fun fact: Hayes’s telephone had the number "1," a fitting symbol for such a groundbreaking moment. Only a few could actually get in direct contact with that line, but the step was taken anyway and history was made.

6

John Adams: Home sweet white house

Image: Library of Congress

While George Washington oversaw the construction of the White House, he never actually lived in it. It was John Adams who had the honor of being its first resident in 1800 .

Adams and his wife Abigail moved into the unfinished mansion, making history as the first Presidential Family to live in the iconic building. Despite the unfinished state of the residence, the Adams family’s presence made it the center of American politics. And of course, he was the first, but he was certainly not the last, as the tradition continues today.

7

Truman: Code name "general"

Image: Library of Congress

If you’re a fan of detective novels, you probably always thought that having a code name is super cool! Well, imagine being the first president with a code name!

Harry Truman made history as the first U.S. president to receive a Secret Service code name . Known as "General," his code name served as a security measure. Although now that you know it, it doesn’t seem so secretive or mysterious, right?

The use of code names has since become standard practice, used to protect presidents and their families. While the tradition of assigning code names has evolved, Truman’s "General" remains a nod to the early days of presidential security. It was just the beginning of a tradition that still exists today.

8

Coolidge: A father’s pride

Image: Library of Congress

Few moments in life are so beautiful as when a father’s eyes are filled with tears of pride for his child, don’t you think? Well, now think about that, between a president and his father!

In a unique and touching moment in U.S. history, Calvin Coolidge was sworn in as president by his own father. After President Harding’s unexpected death in 1923, Coolidge’s father, a notary public, administered the oath of office in their Vermont home.

This made Coolidge the first and only president to be inaugurated by a family member, creating a truly personal and memorable moment. This father-son moment added a deeply personal touch to the transfer of power, making it a memorable event in both their personal lives and American history.

9

Carter: Born in a hospital

Image: Library of Congress

When you think of a birth, you think of a hospital, right? However, that hasn’t always been the case.

Jimmy Carter holds the distinction of being the first U.S. president born in a hospital, on October 1, 1924. Before Carter, presidents were typically born at home, which was the norm for the times.

His birth at the Wise Clinic in Plains, Georgia, marked a shift toward modern medical practices. This milestone highlighted the changing nature of healthcare in America. Carter’s hospital birth was a small, yet significant, indicator of progress in our country.

10

McKinley: Cruising into history

Image: Library of Congress

Our last "first" is a bit crazy and you’ll see why in a minute: William McKinley became the first sitting president to experience the thrill of a car ride .

In 1899, he took a ride in a Locomobile steam carriage, a cutting-edge mode of transportation at the time. The car was driven by the inventor himself!

This ride was quite an oddity, and McKinley’s willingness to try it out showed his interest in new technology. Why is it crazy? Because no president drives their own car today! Regardless of how innovative and technologically advanced it may be!

1

Shaquille O'Neal

Image: Kylie Osullivan

Shaquille O'Neal is definitely one of the biggest stars in sports, nationally and globally recognized. But his talent seems to go beyond the courts!

Shaq is also very good at school: In the 2000s, he graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in General Studies (Minor in Political Science). A few years later, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. And if that wasn't enough, he completed a Doctorate of Education from Barry University in 2012.

2

Jodie Foster

Image: Antonio Scalogna

Among other unforgettable roles, Jodie Foster is the actress who brought to life the character of Clarice Starling, who interviewed the fearsome Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs (1991). Do you remember her?

Like her character in that iconic film, Jodie Foster is also very smart. In fact, she graduated with the highest honor from Yale University in 1985 with a Bachelor's degree in Literature.

3

Conan O'Brien

Image: Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov

Conan O'Brien, the famous host of Late Night with Conan O'Brien, is widely recognized for his long career as a comedian, screenwriter, TV host, and producer.

But while his witty humor always gets a laugh, that doesn't mean Conan can't take some things seriously. And he did so with his college career: In 1985, he graduated with high honors from Harvard University with a Bachelor's degree in History and Literature.

4

David Duchovny

Image: Brice Cooper

We would all immediately recognize the face of the actor who played the unforgettable Fox Mulder in The X-Files . Of course, we're talking about David Duchovny, who, in addition to playing Mulder, also gave life to other great characters in different series and shows.

Just like his most famous character, David Duchovny also has a brilliant mind that led him to get a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from Princeton University and a Master's degree in English Literature from Yale. He was also on his way to earning a Ph.D. when acting entered his life.

5

Lionel Richie

Image: Clo Art

Lionel Richie is the artist we have to thank for unforgettable 80s hits like "Endless Love," "All Night Long (All Night)," and "Hello." But his beginnings were far removed from music and much closer to the world of numbers.

In 1974, he graduated from Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and a Minor in Accounting.

6

Dwayne Johnson

Image: Victor Freitas

Dwayne Johnson, known to all as "The Rock," isn't just one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors; he's also a former professional wrestling superstar. However, his achievements don't end there!

The Rock isn't just known for his powerful body; he also has a sharp mind, which led him to graduate from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of General Studies and a Dual Major in Criminology and Physiology.

7

Lisa Kudrow

Image: Ilse Orsel

We all fondly remember the endearing Phoebe Buffay, one of the funniest characters on Friends, brought to life by Lisa Kudrow. But before discovering her passion and succeeding in acting, Kudrow had considered pursuing a completely different path.

From a young age, Lisa Kudrow had a strong interest in science, which led her to graduate from Vassar College with a degree in Biology!

8

Natalie Portman

Image: Leon Wu

Natalie Portman is a recognized name for her roles in major films such as V for Vendetta , Black Swan , and also Star Wars. But Portman is not only talented and beautiful; she is also very smart! As her fame grew, she successfully balanced her acting career with her studies. In 2003, she graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Psychology!

9

Mayim Bialik

Image: Ben Griffiths

Mayim Bialik won our hearts playing Amy Farrah-Fowler, the quirky girlfriend of the also quirky Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory .

Her character on the show has a sky-high IQ, and so does she in real life! Mayim Bialik graduated with the highest honors from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. But that wasn't enough for her: A few years later, she also earned a Ph.D. in the same field.

10

Cole Sprouse

Image: Trnava University

One of the youngest on this list, Cole Sprouse is an actor who, along with his twin brother Dylan, started his career as a child on Disney Channel's The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.

But acting wasn't Cole's only interest. In addition to demonstrating great skills as a photographer, Cole Sprouse graduated from New York University (NYU) in 2015 with a degree in nothing less than Archaeology!