Category: September 02

  • WORLD COCONUT DAY – September 2

    WORLD COCONUT DAY

    World Coconut Day on September 2nd recognizes the flavorful and aromatic nutrition the coconut brings to many products.

    Biologically, the coconut is a seed, nut, and fruit all in one package. However, the term for a one-seeded fruit (nut) is “drupe.” Every part of the coconut is sourced from the water inside the shell to the outer husk. Its oil moisturizes our skin and improves the flavor of our food. The nutrient-rich ingredient is one superfood!

    The coconut is full of anti-viral and anti-microbial properties. This nutrient-rich seed provides fiber, Vitamin B6, iron, and minerals.

    Grown in tropical areas, the coconut also brings to mind yummy tropical drinks like the pina colada. We can use coconut milk to make ice cream, sauces, and soups.

    In the United States, National Coconut Day is observed on June 28th.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldCoconutDay

    Crack open a coconut! Learn all the ways to cook with this plentiful nut (um, seed…fruit…drupe). See how many ways you can use the coconut. Will be the oil as a lip balm? Or will you use the milk for a sauce? This versatile ingredient calls for experimentation and adventure.

    We even have some coconut recipes for you to try:

    Share your celebrations using #WorldCoconutDay on social media.

    WORLD COCONUT DAY HISTORY

    In 1998, the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community declared World Coconut Day to bring awareness to the powerful nutrients and versatility of this superfood.

  • NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY – First Saturday of Every Month

    NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY

    If it’s the first Saturday of the month, it’s National Play Outside Day. So, no matter what month it is, everyone put down their electronic devices and get outside!

    #PlayOutsideDay

    All year long, we are given numerous opportunities to get outside and play. But sometimes, life, responsibilities, and distractions keep us from spending time in the fresh air as we should. National Play Outside Day is a reminder to stretch our legs and expend some energy in the great outdoors.

    Benefits of Outdoor Play

    Why is playing outside so good for us? Besides getting us off the sofa or away from the desk, it also gives us an opportunity to explore our neighborhoods. While it’s impossible to list all the benefits of outdoor play, we do have a few to share.

    • Playing outdoors is a freeing activity. It frees us from routines, enclosed spaces, and frames of mind.
    • The outdoors fills us with energy. Whether it’s the fresh air, sunshine, or physical activity, we perk up and become motivated to accomplish things.
    • It clears the cobwebs from our brains. We sometimes get stuck on a topic, project, or issue and are unable to resolve it. A change of scene often brings clarity we didn’t have before.
    • Outdoor play provides terrific physical activity for our bodies. Our hearts pump fresh oxygen to our limbs and brains.
    • We experience new sights and sounds. Children get to experience the world around them.
    • As a social activity, playing outside encourages positive interactions.
    • When you play outside every month, it becomes habit-forming – and this is one good habit to have!
    • It stimulates the imagination. Outdoor play almost has no boundaries. Your yard can be a kingdom or the playground can be a mountain to scale.

    We’ve only scratched the surface of the benefits of outdoor play. There are so many more! So, be sure to get outside with the family on the first Saturday of every month – or even more often than that!

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY

    We know the seasons change, so what we were able to do outside last month will be different this month. However, that shouldn’t stop you from celebrating the day. This is your monthly reminder that it’s time to get outside and play. We have suggestions for every season that we’re sure you’ll enjoy!

    • Explore hiking trails near you.
    • Visit the local swimming pool or even take swimming lessons.
    • Check out every park in your neighborhood and climb, slide or swing on every playground set.
    • Start a game of catch, kickball, tag, or Frisbee or make up a game.
    • Go to the beach.
    • Run through the sprinkler.
    • Go camping.
    • Go fishing.
    • Fly a kite.
    • Jump in a pile of leaves.
    • Build a fort – of leaves or snow or whatever is handy.
    • Walk around the block.
    • Go for a bike ride.
    • Build a snowperson.
    • Go sledding.
    • Identify the constellations at night and look for meteors.
    • Visit your favorite state or national park.
    • Check out these 9 Fun Winter Outdoor Activities.

    What’s your favorite way to play outside? Introduce some of the games you used to play to your children. Whatever you do, be sure to get outside and play! Use #PlayOutsideDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY HISTORY

    In 2011, Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta founded National Play Outside Day as a reminder to explore and play in the world outside. The day encourages healthful habits that will last a lifetime.

  • WORLD BEARD DAY – First Saturday in September

    WORLD BEARD DAY

    Every September, the luxurious landscape of facial hair becomes an annual event on World Beard Day!

    #WorldBeardDay

    Whether scruffy or carefully groomed, all those beard-bearing persons step forward to celebrate the day. World Beard Day encourages competition between the bewhiskered. For those who have none, well, be prepared to pamper those who do or make yourself scarce. The mighty beard goes the spoils.

    Memorable Beards

    Throughout the ages, several famous and fabulous beards come to mind. The romantics may quote The Bard and wax poetic when reminded of Shakespeare’s Van Dyke style.

    Another memorable speaker with a historically recognizable beard, Abraham Lincoln followed the advice of a young admirer. In a letter to the Republican nominee of 1860, Grace Bedell suggested that if he “let your whiskers grow,” he might gain more votes. Lincoln went unshaven and a month later, he was headed for the White House.abraham-lincoln

    Beards come in all sizes. The band ZZ Top can attest to that. Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill’s iconic beards help to identify the group’s image. Ironically, the one original member who doesn’t sport an epic beard bears the last name – Frank Beard.

    Speaking of epic beards, the record for the world’s longest beard goes to Hans Langseth. Originally from Norway, Langseth immigrated to the United States. According to Guinness World Records, at the time of his death in 1927, Langseth’s beard measured 17 feet 6 inches long.

    A modern-day beard with some amazing threads belongs to Questlove. Like other whiskered jawlines, the talented musician joins the ranks of famous beards around the world. These beards have it. Others just don’t.

    HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD BEARD DAY

    Drop your razor, show off your well-grown beard and join events near you.  You can also:

    • Explore different styles of beards.
    • Share your favorite beard grooming products.
    • Are you a beard-tamer or do you let it live on the wild side? Take a picture and let the world know.

    Use #WorldBeardDay to share on social media.

    WORLD BEARD DAY HISTORY

    Since 2010, the unshaven have been celebrating World Beard Day.

    DATES:
    3 September 2022
    2 September 2023
    7 September 2024
    6 September 2025
    5 September 2026
    4 September 2027
    2 September 2028
    1 September 2029
    7 September 2030
    6 September 2031

  • NATIONAL TAILGATING DAY – First Saturday in September

     

    National Tailgating Day | First Saturday in September
    National Tailgating Day | First Saturday in September

    NATIONAL TAILGATING DAY

    On the first Saturday in September, National Tailgating Day reminds us of what the autumn colors and scents already do. Those colors signal grilling time and a season of cheering on our favorite teams!

    #NationalTailgatingDay

    Tailgating is the custom of gathering outside the stadium before the game with fans of the same team for food, beverages, and socializing. Gatherings often take place at the tailgate of a pickup truck or the trunk of a car. However, neither is required. Tailgating also includes a few traditions. The staples of a tailgate party often include grilling and beer. However, chili competitions and recipe challenges encourage friendly competition before the game. Come hungry!

    Tailgating History

    While the original tailgate is unknown, many teams take pride in claiming this title, as they should. Some writers even suggest the many observers in attendance at the Battle of Bull Run in 1861 as the first tailgaters. The spectators arrived with their picnic baskets and bottles of claret prepared to watch opposing teams. So perhaps this can be considered tailgating.

    Today, tailgating centers around the sport of football. While football has its roots in rugby, most fans generally accepted that Rutgers and Princeton Universities played the first football game in U.S. history on November 6, 1869.  On that day, fans arrived early to enjoy each other’s company, some food, and cheer for their scarlet and crimson teams.

    Much like building a community, tailgating hearkens back to times gone by. Pioneering villages once came together to raise the framework of a building. After a long day’s work, a large meal and perhaps a sporting competition of sorts followed. Communities looked forward to these harvest traditions year after year.

    Those who tailgate come back every year, weekend after weekend. Couples meet. Families grow. Bonds are forged – all through the community of tailgating.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TAILGATING DAY

    Put on your team colors. Bring your game face. Whip up your best batch of jalapeno poppers and get outside to watch your favorite team play this weekend! Another way to celebrate the day is by sharing your tailgating memories. Share your story using #NationalTailgatingDay to post on social media.

    Post your tailgating pics on one of Tailgating Challenge’s social media pages:

    Facebook @tailgatingchallenge
    Twitter @tailgatingchall
    Instagram @ tailgatingchallenge

    TAILGATING DAY HISTORY

    Luke Lorick, president of Tailgating Challenge, founded National Tailgating Day in 2016 to share his passion for the sport of tailgating.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on the first Saturday of September, annually.
    Tailgating Challenge

    Tailgating Challenge is one of the largest tailgating companies in the world, and Lorick sees the joy and friendships tailgating brings to many Americans every day.

    Tailgating FAQ

    Q. Is tailgating legal?
    A. In the United States, tailgating can be a traffic violation. That is, if you’re following the car in front of you too closely, it can be a traffic violation. But creating a festive BBQ from the back of your truck, SUV, or trunk of your car before the big game is not illegal. However, drinking responsibly and cleaning up after yourself will prevent you from breaking any laws and local ordinances.

     

    DATES:
    3 September 2022
    2 September 2023
    7 September 2024
    6 September 2025
    5 September 2026
    4 September 2027
    2 September 2028
    1 September 2029
    7 September 2030
    6 September 2031

  • NATIONAL V-J DAY

    NATIONAL V-J DAY | SEPTEMBER 2

    On September 2nd, National V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day) recognizes Allied Forces’ victory over Japan during World War II.  Officials announced the surrender of Japan to the Allies on August 15, 1945. The official signing of surrender took place on September 2, 1945, officially ending World War II.  

    #NationalVJDay

    Between 50 to 80 million lives were lost during World War II. These numbers include both military and civilian lives. Fought on every continent except Antarctica, the war consumed entire cities. More than 50 countries took up arms. Even those who maintained isolationist stances held sympathies for one side or another.

    Militaries fought on the land and sea and in the air. Civilians often had front row seats to the devastation. When they didn’t, technology brought reports to them more quickly. Radio broadcasts and war correspondents informed the public with first-hand details. 

    For six long years, the world endured rations, victory gardens, evacuations, drills, and an entirely different way of life – an uncertain future. 

    Six-years of sacrifice and horrors preceded this moment. All around the world, celebrations erupted. However, there would be years of reconciliations, discoveries, and coming to terms with the damage done to relations and humanity.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL V-J DAY

    Learn more about World War II, the people who served and sacrificed and how life changed after the war ended. Take time to visit with those who lived through it. Read their memoirs and discover the stories you’ve never heard before. Use #NationalVJDay to post on social media. Share photos of friends and family who served in World War II. Honor those who sacrificed to maintain our freedom.

    HISTORY OF V-J DAY

    The formal signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender took place on board the battleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. At that time, President Truman declared September 2nd to be the official V-J Day. However, over the years, many citizens of the United States celebrated August 14 as V-J Day in conjunction with the European observation on August 15th.  

     

  • NATIONAL BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY – September 2

    NATIONAL BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY | SEPTEMBER 2

    National Blueberry Popsicle Day on September 2nd also kicks off National Blueberry Popsicle Month. Scheduled in the midst of the dog days of summer, it’s a delicious way to cool off. Purchase a box of blueberry-flavored Popsicles or make your own. Either way, the treat will be a tasty one! With the end of summer at hand, now is the time to celebrate this National Day.

    #BlueberryPopsicleDay

    In San Francisco, California, in 1905, 11-yr-old Frank Epperson was outside on his porch, mixing water with a white powdered flavoring to make soda.  Upon going inside, he left it there on the porch with the stirring stick still in it.  That night the temperature reached a record low and the following morning, Frank discovered the drink had frozen to the stick.

    Years later, in 1922, Epperson introduced his treat at a fireman’s ball where it was a huge success. Then in 1923, he made and sold his frozen treat-on-a-stick at an amusement park in Alameda, California.  Epperson applied for a patent in 1924 for his frozen confectionery, which he called “Epsicle” ice pop.  He then renamed it “Popsicle“.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIOAN BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY

    Be sure to get yourself a blueberry Popsicle and use #BlueberryPopsicleDay to post on social media. Here is an Easy Homemade Blueberry Popsicles Recipe to try out. We have some other terrific ideas for a berry blueberry celebration:

    • Share a Blueberry Popsicle recipe with us. If you do, we will be sure to give you credit, too! Visit our recipe page to complete the form.
    • Bring blueberry popsicles to share at work, school or with friends.
    • Order some blueberries from your favorite ice cream truck. (Yes, they carry Popsicles, too!)
    • Take a selfie as you enjoy your frozen treat.
    • Bring blueberry Popsicles to a game or the beach in a cooler packed with ice.
    • Add a blueberry Popsicle to your favorite carbonated clear soda. It will cool your drink and flavor it, too!

    Don’t forget to share your Blueberry Popsicle celebration on social media, too. Use #NationalBlueberryPopsicleDay.

    BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of the frozen celebration. 

     

    September 2nd Celebrated History

    1789 

    Over a year after the U.S. Constitution was ratified, Congress created the Treasury Department. With the third Cabinet office created, President George Washington placed Alexander Hamilton in charge as Secretary of Treasury.

    1901 

    While laying out his foreign policy at the Minnesota State Fair, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt quoted the West African proverb, “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” It became known as “Big Stick diplomacy.” Following his election to the presidency, he applied his Big Stick diplomacy to foreign policy and would later win the 1906 Nobel Peace Prize.

    1912 

    The Boy Scouts of America honor their first Eagle Scout with a medal ceremony. Arthur Eldred earned 21 merit badges in his journey to Eagle Scout, Boy Scout’s highest honor.

    1931 

    Bing Crosby makes his solo radio debut in his series called “15 Minutes With Bing Crosby.” Soon after, the performer launched into an international music and film career.

    1936 

    Flying in their Breguet Br. 19 TF Super Bidon named Point d’ Interrogation (Question Mark), aviators Dieudonné Costes and Maurice Bellonte complete the first non-stop transatlantic flight by plane. Their journey began in Paris, France, and ended at Long Island, NY.

    1940 

    The Great Smoky Mountains join the National Park System.

    1945 

    The surrender of Japan to the Allied Forces becomes official, ending World War II.

    1969 

    Chemical Bank in Rockville Center, NY installs the first Automatic Teller Machine. The revolutionary machines made simple transactions easier and more accessible.

    1974 

    President Gerald Ford signs the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). The law guarantees pension rights and creates tax rules for employee benefits and contributions.

    1988

    The baseball film Eight Men Out debuts. Starring John Cusack, Christopher Lloyd and Charlie Sheen, the film re-tells the story of the 1919 Chicago White Sox team and the players accused of accepting money to throw the series.

    1993 

    Decades of space competition come to an end when the United States and Russia agree to build a space station.

    September 2nd Celebrated Birthdays

    Lucretia Hale – 1820

    Lucretia Peabody Hale is an American novelist also noted for her children’s book. Some of her stories include The Peterkin Papers. She also contributed to the book Six of One by Half a Dozen of the Other: An Every Day Novel by Harriet Beecher Stow.

    Albert Spalding – 1850

    After a career as a professional baseball player, Spalding opened a sporting goods store. He also published Spalding’s Official Baseball Guide.

    Romare Bearden – 1911

    The talented artist is best known for his work depicting African American culture. He’s also the author of the book Lil Dan, the Drummer Boy.

    Arnold Greenberg – 1932

    Greenburg launched the Snapple Beverage Corp with two business partners. The business’s original name in 1972? Unadulterated Food Products. However, they changed the name to Snapple after one of their failed products.

    Glenna Sue Kidd – 1933

    Glenna Sue Kid played four seasons in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League. Though she was only a teenager when she joined the league, her phenomenal pitching did not go unnoticed. Kid’s arsenal of pitches was in demand making her popular with the fans.

    C. Wilson Markle Jr. – 1938

    Markle is credited with inventing the film colorization process. In 1987, a patent for the process was issued under US Patent No. 4710805.

    Christa McAuliffe – 1948

    In 1985, McAuliffe was selected as an astronaut for the NASA Teacher in Space Project. On January 28, 1986, she along with 6 other crew members perished when the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds into its flight.

    Jimmy Connors – 1952

    Connors achieved professional tennis success during the late 1970s. He is also known for his rivalry with John McEnroe.

    Guy Laliberté – 1959

    The businessman is co-founder of Cirque du Soleil. In 1984, the elaborate circus performance debuted.

    Keanu Reeves – 1964

    While the actor has played numerous roles, his career has been buoyed by several franchise films. These include The Maxtrix, John Wick and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.

    Salma Hayek – 1966

    The versatile actress is known for her roles in Desperado and Frida. Her producing credits include the television comedy Ugly Betty and the drama Monarca.

    William Hanson – 1989

    As an author of two etiquette books, Hanson has become the modern equivalent of Miss Manners. He doles out his advice on social media, radio and television.