08 February

NATIONAL KITE FLYING DAY  

 

Observed annually on February 8th, National Kite Flying Day encourages exploring kite flying and making. Enthusiasts across the country mark the day by launching their kites or making plans to attend festivals.

National Kite Flying Day

Kites date back to China in 470 B.C. China is full of lore and histories of the origins of the kite. Many are related to the way wind affects the leaves on the trees, the shelters they lived in, blowing away the sails on their ships, and the hats they wore upon their heads. The stories also tell of kites invented to spy on their enemies or to send messages.

Evidence also shows the people of the South Sea Islands were using kites for fishing around the same time as the people of China.

Early kites were constructed from bamboo or sturdy reeds for framing. Leaves, silk, or paper made ideal sails. Vines or braided fibers completed the line or tether. While people initially used kites as tools, they also used them for ceremonial reasons as well. Whether they sent messages into the heavens or to lift offerings up to the gods, kites had a symbolic place in the culture.

Today kites are popular both as hobbies and for outdoor fun. They range from a simple diamond kite to more complicated box kites and giant sled kites. Stunt kites, also known as sport kites, are designed so the operator can maneuver the kite into dips, twists, and dives with dramatic effect.

Tips for Getting Your Kite Up in the Air and Keeping it There

• Be sure the kite is assembled correctly.
• Check the wind.  Some kites require more wind and others less. Picking the right day for your kite is key.  A light breeze (5-20 mph) is generally optimal.
• Be safe. Don't fly a kite near power lines, trees, or other sky-high obstacles. Wide-open spaces are best.
• Be safer. Don't fly in the rain.
• When launching the kite, be sure to have your back to the wind.  If the wind is light, have a friend hold the kite downwind and hold your line taught, reeling in slowly until the kite launches.
• Don't let the line out too quickly.  Let the line out at the same pace the kite is gaining altitude.

How to Observe National Kite Flying Day

• Fly a kite.
• Make a kite.
• Scout out kite festivals to attend in the months to come.
• Host a kite flying lesson.
• Learn about the science behind kite flying.

National Kite Flying Day History

National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this high-flying holiday.

Kite FAQ

Q. What is the world's largest kite?
A. According to Guinness World Records, Abdulrahman Al Farsi and Faris Al Farsi flew the world's largest kite on February 15, 2005. Measuring 25.475 meters (83 feet 7 inches) long and 40 meters (131 feet 3 inches) wide, the kite flew at the Kuwait Hala Festival in Kuwait City.

Q. Is kite flying a sport?
A. Flying kites is quite competitive. Kite design and the altitude a kite achieves are both measures for competition. Additionally, flying kites can be a physically demanding event.

Q. What are the largest kite festivals?
A. In North America, Washington State International Kite Festival hosts the largest gathering of kites each year.

 

Also

Boy Scouts Day

Iowa Day

Global Movie Day

International Snowmobile Ride Day

 

Today's Thought 

If you think you can do a thing or think you can't do a thing, you're right. ~ Henry Ford

 

40 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

07 February

BUBBLEGUM DAY  

Celebrating Bubble Gum Day on the first Friday of February every year doesn't burst many people's bubbles. It's a fun way to chew your favorite flavor of bubble gum, blow some spectacular bubbles and raise money, too.

Bubble Gum Day

Bubble Gum Day helps raise money for schools and the charities they support. Students donate 50 cents to be able to chew bubble gum in class on Bubble Gum Day.

Long before any substantial chewing gum formed bubbles, ancient human beings chewed bits of resin from trees. All around the world, people collected substances from the available trees and used them for dental care and general enjoyment.

It wasn't until 1928 after decades of failure by those before him, and several of his own, that Walter Diemer created the first bubble producing gum. His employer, the Fleer Chewing Gum Company, marketed it as "Dubble Bubble".

The largest bubble gum bubble ever blown was 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) in diameter. Chad Fell of Haleyville, Alabama blew the bubble with three pieces of Dubble Bubble on April 24, 2004 at Double Springs High School in Winston County, Alabama.

How to Observe Bubble Gum Day

Grab your quarters and bubble gum! It's time to chew some gum, blow bubbles and raise some money for a good cause.

If your school doesn't participate, encourage your school to set up a fundraiser. The funds can be donated to a local charity, new band costumes or foreign language immersion trip. Those are just a few ideas to get you started.

Bubble Gum Day History

In 2006, Ruth Spiro, children's author and mother, founded the celebration/fundraiser to create a fun way for children to participate in school fundraising.

Bubble Gum

Q. How many calories are in one piece of bubble gum?
A. One piece of bubble gum contains approximately 29 calories?

Q. Do the calories count if you don't swallow the gum?
A. Yes. The calories count even though you don't swallow the gum.

Q. Is there a difference between bubble gum and chewing gum?
A. Yes. Bubble gum produces larger bubbles and is typically sweeter. While chewing gum can still produce bubbles, they are neither as large or as lasting as those made with bubble gum.

Also

Fettuccine Alfredo Day

Periodic Table Day

Send a card to a Friend Day

Wear Red Day

Today's Thought

Nothing changes if nothing changes. 

 

41 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

 

 

 

06 February

 OPTIMIST DAY | First Thursday in February 

Confident people look to the future with hope, and on Optimist Day we celebrate the volunteers who share their enthusiasm, skills, and talent to make that tomorrow a vibrant and peaceful one. On the first Thursday in February, recognize an optimist whose endeavors have made a difference in your community.

Optimist Day

Each year, Optimist organizations around the world volunteer their time and skills working with the youth in their communities. They provide leadership, scholarship, wellness and safety, arts and sports programs.

Optimist Day recognizes the volunteers and the youth who support their communities in many different ways. Every day, our growing communities rely on the ingenuity and energy of the next generation to be an integral part of our neighborhoods, schools, and towns. These young volunteers and the mentors who guide them connect them to the greater world around us. Their stewardship creates a hopeful future for us all.

How to Observe Optimist Day

Recognize the volunteers in your community. Dedicate the day to their accomplishments and let them know how much you appreciate them. Let them know your community admires their hard work and dedication. Encourage other youth to become involved in community organizations, too. Help them see the benefits of improving the world where they live and connecting with the people who live there. Share the projects and resources of your communities' volunteer organizations, the volunteers, and youth, too.

Optimist Day History

The original idea for Optimist Day developed in 1909 when the Optimist Club of America promoted the day to be observed on April 1st as a way to encourage kind acts and further optimism. The idea was to also replace the practical joking associated with April Fool's Day. For the next several decades, clubs across the country hosted Optimist Day observances in their communities on various dates throughout the year.

In 2017, Optimist International declared Optimist Day to be observed on the first Thursday in February with a focus on recognizing the achievements of the volunteers and the youth in the community. Each year, the programs they support improve their communities and provide opportunities for youth of all ages. They also coordinate with other volunteer organizations making the future brighter for all involved.

Optimist FAQ

Q. Are optimists positive or negative?
A. Optimists have a positive outlook and strive to bring a positive outlook into the lives of others.

Q. Q. When was Optimist International founded?
A. The international volunteer organization was founded in 1919. However, many Optimist Clubs were established across the United States. In 1911, Optimist Club of America established its first official club in Boston

 

Also

Chopsticks Day

Frozen Yogurt Day

Lame Duck Day

 

42 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

 

 

 

05 February

 NATIONAL SHOWER WITH A FRIEND DAY 

On National Shower with a Friend Day on February 5th is a tongue-in-cheek way of educating people about the benefits of filtered, chlorine-free water. 

Winter is the coldest and loneliest season of the year. With dwindling daylight and Valentine's Day at its heart, February can often leave people feeling dejected and somber. The day injects a bit of humor into the season while also serving to educate people on the benefits of showering in fresh, filtered water (and the effects of chlorine).

Learn more about how chlorine is harmful to shower or bathe in or consume.

How to Observe Shower With A Friend Day

Shower with filtered water. Learn more about the harmful effects of chlorine and how to filter it.

National Shower With A Friend Day History

New Wave Enviro, a company located in Denver, Colorado, submitted the day in 2014.

The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day in 2015 to be observed on February 5th, annually.

Also

Weatherperson's Day

World Nutella Day

Today's Thought

Do the best you can until you know better.  Then when you know better, do better.  ~ Maya Angelou

 

43 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

04 February

 NATIONAL THANK A MAIL CARRIER DAY  

National Thank A Mail Carrier Day (also known as Thank a Mailman Day) on February 4th reminds us that someone makes sure the mail gets through 6 days a week 52 weeks a year. The day reminds us just how important mail carriers are to our daily lives. Take time out of your day to thank the mail carrier responsible for delivering your mail.  

The Pony Express riders earned a famous reputation in their short existence. Their motto was “Neither rain, or snow, nor death of night, can keep us from our duty.”  This motto is believed to be taken, in part, from a motto dating back to ancient times. The most popular variation of this motto is “Through rain or snow, or sleet or hail, we’ll carry the mail. We will not fail.”

Fun Facts:

• In 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Constitutional Post–the first organized mail service in America.
• As the nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin established many of the conventions we are accustomed to today.
• Postage stamps were invented in 1847.
• On April 3, 1860, the famous Pony Express officially took off.
• In 1863, free city delivery started, and in 1896, free rural delivery began.
• In 1963, the Zip Code began.

National Thank a Mail Carrier Day is the perfect time to show your appreciation to your mail carrier.

How to Observe Thank a Mail Carrier Day

National Thank A Mail Carrier Day gives you an opportunity to say thanks to your U.S. Postal Service carrier. One way to celebrate is with a friendly smile or a token of appreciation. Let your mail carrier know how much you value them.

National Thank a Mail Carrier Day History

While we continue researching the origins of National Thank a Mail Carrier Day, we promise to deliver any updates to you promptly. 

Mail Carrier FAQ

Q. How many mail carriers are there in the United States.
A. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 333,570 were employed in the U.S. in 2020.

Q. Which state has the most mail carriers?
A. California leads the country with the most mail carriers followed by Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois.

Q. When does the mail run?
A. Currently, U.S. mail service is provided Monday through Saturday. There are 11 holidays that the U.S. mail service does not run:

• New Year's Day - January 1
• Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday - Third Monday in January
• Washington's Birthday (President's Day (Third Monday in February)
• Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
• Independence Day - July 4
• Labor Day - First Monday in September
• Columbus Day - Second Monday in October
• Veterans Day - November 11
• Thanksgiving Day - Third Thursday in November
• Christmas Day - December 25

 Also

Create a Vacuum Day

Hemp Day

Homemade Soup Day

 

Today's Thought

What would you do if you weren't afraid? ~ Sheryl Sandberg - Business Executive

 

 

44 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

 

 

 

 

03 February

 

NATIONAL THE DAY THE MUSIC DIED DAY 

The Day the Music Died Day on February 3rd remembers the unfortunate and untimely death of singers 22-year-old Buddy Holly, 17-year-old Ritchie Valens, and 28-year-old J. P. Richardson, aka: “The Big Bopper.”  These three artists died in an airplane accident on February 3, 1959, near Clear Lake, Iowa. Their pilot, Roger Peterson, also perished in the crash.

Buddy Holly’s band was on tour and had played at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.  They were headed to their next destination in Moorhead, Minnesota.  For this leg of their journey, they decided to take a charter plane rather than go with their tour bus. Richardson “The Big Bopper”,  had swapped places with Waylon Jennings, taking the latter’s place on the plane and Tommy Allsup had lost his place to Ritchie Valens in a coin toss.

Not long after takeoff, they were no longer able to be reached by radio, and they did not reach their destination. The aircraft was reported missing. The next day, the wreckage was found less than 6 miles northwest of the airport in a cornfield.  Poor weather conditions and pilot error were determined, during the investigation, to have been the cause of the pilot losing control of the plane.

Pilgrimage & Tribute

The tragic event echoed through history for over 50 years. Visitors still make the pilgrimage each year to Clear Lake, Iowa, the resort town about 110 miles north of Des Moines, as this was the point of their last concert before the fatal accident.

“The day the music died” is a line in the 1972 Don McLean hit "American Pie.” McLean’s song, which he wrote in the late 1960s and released in 1971, was in part inspired by the tragic event which took the lives of three great musicians and their pilot.

The Day the Music Died was dubbed by Don McLean’s song  “American Pie” (I remember all the high school girls crying on this day.)

"American Pie" lyrics by Don McLean

"But February made me shiver,
With every paper I’d deliver,
Bad news on the doorstep
I couldn’t take one more step. 
I can’t remember if I cried
When I read about his widowed bride
But something touched me deep inside,
The day the music died."

How to Observe The Day the Music Died

Listen to some of the music by Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, or The Big Bopper.

National The Day the Music Died History

The observance commemorates the fateful day in 1959 when four young lives were cut short. When Don McLean's "American Pie" hit the airwaves in 1972, the world came to know the day as "the day the music died' from the line in the lyrics. Another line in the song reflected on the music of Buddy Holly & The Crickets. In their song "That'll be the Day" the chorus goes like this:

 "Well, that'll be the day, when you say goodbye
Yes, that'll be the day, when you make me cry
You say you're gonna leave, you know it's a lie
'Cause that'll be the day when I die"

In McLean's "American Pie" his similar line appears in the chorus as well:

"Bye, bye Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
And them good ole boys were drinking whiskey and rye
Singin' this'll be the day that I die
This'll be the day that I die"

The Day the Music Died FAQ

Q. How many hits did Ritchie Valens have?
A. Ritchie Valens (Richard Steven Valenzuela) was signed by Bob Keane of Del-Fi Records in May 1958. He recorded two albums before his death just 8 short months later. Some of his most popular songs included Donna, La Bamba, and Cry, Cry, Cry.

Q. When did Buddy Holly begin his career?
A. Buddy Holly began pursuing his musical career in 1955.

Q. How did the Big Bopper get his name?
A. The singer/songwriter known as the Big Bopper began his career in radio in 1949. A popular dance called "The Bop" inspired Richardson to call himself the Big Bopper for a radio program.

Also

Carrot Cake Day

Four Chaplains Day

Missing Persons Day

Women Physicians Day 

Today's Thought

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. ~ Lao-Tzu

 

45 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain

 

 

02 February Graond Hog Day

 

 NATIONAL GROUNDHOG DAY   

National Groundhog Day on February 2nd each year asks one question. Will he see his shadow? Ok, well, maybe it asks another question. Will there be six more weeks of winter? The day is celebrated each year in the United States and Canada. 

Traditionally the groundhog awakens from his nap for a nice welcomed break during the winter to see if he can see his shadow. Many believe if the groundhog sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If this is so, he retreats into his den and goes back to sleep. However, if he does not see his shadow, the groundhog remains outside to play, and people celebrate, believing spring is just around the corner.

Tradition

The tradition of predicting the length of the remaining winter is intertwined with the Christian holiday, Candlemas. The clergy would bless candles symbolizing the 'light of the world' to give to their congregations. Another tradition associated with this day is eating crepes. Germans practiced the art of predicting the winter with a hedgehog. When they arrived in the United States, they settled in the hills of Pennsylvania, and the groundhog became the official predictor.

Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, has hosted the annual Groundhog day event. Thousands of people come to the town of Punxsutawney on Groundhog Day for this day of celebration.

Although already a well-known day, Groundhog Day received widespread attention due to the 1993 film Groundhog Day, which was set in Punxsutawney and portrayed Roger Rininger as the groundhog.

How to Observe National  Groundhog Day

• Watch Punxsutawney Phil and see if he sees his shadow.
• See the captioned picture above*
  
• Make your own prediction for National Groundhog Day.
• Watch a documentary about groundhogs.
• Watch Groundhog the movie. And then, watch it again.
• Read the Farmer's Almanac to determine the likelihood of an early spring. Does Phil agree?
• Look for your shadow.

National  Groundhog Day History

An early American reference to Groundhog Day can be found in a diary entry by storekeeper James Morris, dated February 4th, 1841, of Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Groundhog FAQ

Q. What's another name for a groundhog?
A. Groundhogs are also called a woodchuck.

Q. Does a groundhog hibernate?
A. Yes. The groundhog is a hibernating rodent.

Q. Where do groundhogs live?
A. Groundhogs are native to the North American continent and are not found elsewhere in the world.

 

Also

Heavenly Hash Day

Tater Tot Day 

Today's Thought

Be productive...not busy.

 

46 Days Until Spring

In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain