Henry David Thoreau
Essayist, poet, and philosopher best known for Walden, which was a reflection on simple living in nature and civil disobedience.
National days, ongoing national weeks and months, and global observances for July 12, 2026. Plus historical events and birthdays.

July 12, 2026 celebrates Paper Bag Day, plus 4 more. On July 12, we recognize the significance of an invention we take for granted--the paper bag. Not only do we carry our groceries or our lunches in a paper bag, but Paper Bag Day reminds us about a highly functional item comes in handy in a surprising number of ways.
Read the full story →National Simplicity Day on July 12 honors transcendentalist Henry David Thoreau, a man who advocated a life of simplicity. A man of many talents and skills, Thoreau was a supporter of living the simple life and encouraging others to do the same.
Read the full story →July 12 gives us the perfect, wiggly excuse to indulge in America’s most iconic dessert--Jello! Whether you like it molded into a masterpiece, stacked in a vibrant rainbow, or straight out of a plastic cup, Eat Your Jello Day is all about celebrating the joy of the jiggle.
Read the full story →National Different Colored Eyes Day on July 12 recognizes those who have two different colored eyes. Many people captivate us with their eye color; others do so because they have two different colored eyes. This day celebrates them in all their uniqueness!
Read the full story →Grab a slice on July 12 and celebrate National Pecan Pie Day! Classic recipes mix up ingredients using primarily corn syrup, pecan nuts, salt, and vanilla, though some variations swap in sugar syrup, molasses, or maple syrup. Other popular regional additions include rich chocolate or a splash of bourbon whiskey. Top it all off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and you have the perfect treat.
Read the full story →People born on July 12
Essayist, poet, and philosopher best known for Walden, which was a reflection on simple living in nature and civil disobedience.
Founder of Eastman Kodak Company. He also helped to bring the photographic use of roll film into the mainstream, making amateur photography possible for everyone.
Ceramic artist and the self-proclaimed "Mad Potter of Biloxi" (Mississippi).[1] He is often considered the precursor to the American Abstract-Expressionism movement.
Film director, film actor, screenwriter, vaudeville performer, and carnival sideshow and circus entertainer. He directed several horror films during his career. Many film directors referred to him as "the Edgar Allan Poe of cinema."
Comedian and actor who was the first major television start with millions of viewers. He is fondly remembered as "Uncle Miltie" and "Mr. Television".
Events that occurred on July 12 throughout history
Congress authorizes the Medal of Honor to recognize enlisted personnel who most distinguished themselves by their gallantry in action during the Civil War combat.
A fire destroys the entire sixth floor of the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The fire destroyed roughly 16 to 18 million military personnel files--the largest single loss of official records in U.S. history
U.S. Army Apache helicopters engage in airstrikes against armed insurgents in Baghdad, Iraq. Footage of the attack was later leaked on the Internet.
Longer-running observances that include this date.
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