Fact 1: International Day of Peace
September 21st annually marks the International Day of Peace, also known as Peace Day. It's a United Nations-recognized day dedicated to promoting world peace, specifically the absence of war and violence. It was first celebrated in 1982 and continues to be observed globally with activities focusing on peace, reconciliation, and ceasefire.
Fact 2: Is the Autumnal Equinox Day
In the Northern Hemisphere, September 21st often coincides with the Autumnal Equinox, marking the beginning of fall. On this day, the day and night durations are virtually equal - around 12 hours each. It is one of two days in the year when the sun is directly above the Equator.
Fact 3: World Gratitude Day
September 21st is also known as World Gratitude Day, which began in 1965 at an international gathering in Hawaii. It was decided to have one day per year to formally express gratitude and appreciation for the many wonderful things in the world.
Fact 4: Celebrates Miniature Golf
If you're a fan of putting on mini greens, you're in luck! September 21st is also National Miniature Golf Day in the United States. The day is celebrated by fans of the sport by hitting the mini-course for a game.
Fact 5: The Birthday of Iconic Celebrities
September 21st is the birthday of several celebrities. Iconic writer and producer Stephen King was born on this day in 1947. Similarly, well-known music artist Leonard Cohen and actor Nicole Richie also share this September birth date.
Fact 6: The Launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour
On September 21, 1992, the Space Shuttle Endeavour began its second mission, STS-47. The Endeavour orbited the Earth for 8 days on this mission, making a significant contribution to space research and technology.
Fact 7: Arbor Day in Brazil
In Brazil, September 21st signifies Arbor Day, a day where individuals and groups are encouraged to plant trees and take care of the environment. The date is chosen to coincide with the starting of spring season in Brazil.
Fact 8: The Weirdest Day of the Year
According to the New York Times, researchers found in 2017 that September 21st was the "weirdest day of the year" because it had the highest number of out-of-the-ordinary events, such as uncommon weather, strange news quotes, and notable deaths.
Fact 9: The Release of iOS 9
Apple released iOS 9 on September 21, 2015, offering improved performance, refined aesthetics, advanced search options, and Proactive Assistant. Its introduction marked a significant update due to enhanced battery efficiency and security measures.
Fact 10: World Alzheimer's Day
Each year, September 21st marks World Alzheimer's Day. Organized by Alzheimer's Disease International, the day is intended to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer's and dementia.
Fact 11: Independence Day Celebrations
Several nations celebrate their independence day on September 21. These include Belize, who got independence from the UK in 1981, and Malta, which broke free from the UK in 1964.
Fact 12: International Coastal Cleanup Day
Often falling on the third Saturday of September, International Coastal Cleanup Day can sometimes occur on September 21. This project encourages volunteers worldwide to clean up their beaches and raise awareness about marine conservation.
Fact 13: The Founding of Seattle
On September 21, 1851, Arthur Denny and his group of travelers settled at Alki Point, which is now part of Seattle. This marks the diverse city's founding day.
Fact 14: The Release of "The Hobbit"
On September 21, 1937, the famous book "The Hobbit," written by J.R.R. Tolkien, was published. This enchanting tale of Bilbo Baggins started the worldwide Middle Earth phenomenon.
Fact 15: National Pecan Cookie Day
The United States also enjoys National Pecan Cookie Day on September 21. This unofficial holiday encourages everyone to celebrate by sampling some pecan cookies.
Fact 16: International Day of University Sport
The International University Sports Federation (FISU) celebrates International Day of University Sport on September 21. The day aims to create links through sport between universities and their local community.
Fact 17: The Birth of Confucius
Chinese philosopher Confucius was born on September 21, 551 BC. His philosophies have profoundly shaped world history and continue to have a significant impact on East Asian thought and life.
Fact 18: Steve Jobs Resigns From Apple
September 21, 1997, was a big day in tech history. Steve Jobs, who had returned to Apple as an advisor in January of that same year, upgraded his role and officially took the position of interim CEO of the company.
Fact 19: The Premiere of "Friends"
September 21, 1994, marked the premiere of the widely-popular television sitcom "Friends." The series, which ran for ten seasons, has left a significant legacy in pop culture.
Fact 20: Zero Emissions Day
Lastly, September 21 is also recognized as Zero Emissions Day, an annual event designed to champion the goal of reducing the world's carbon footprint. The campaign invites people worldwide to avoid using fossil fuels and minimize their use of electricity generated by fossil fuels for 24 hours.