Australia Day is one of Australia’s national holidays, acknowledged in different ways across the country. Around the world, national holidays, national days, and cultural celebrations can look just as varied. From quirky traditions to unusual observances, here’s a look at some unique national days and celebrations around the globe that are all very real, and often closely tied to local culture and history.
Ask a Stupid Question Day
If you’re in school in the US, whether as a student or teacher, the 28th of September is the day to ask stupid questions. This day originated sometime in the 80s and was meant to encourage kids to speak up in class and not be embarrassed about things they didn’t understand. The day is meant to promote curiosity, even if it’s now mostly an excuse for jokes and playful banter.
International Nose Picking Day
Uhh … it's a thing! No one really nose (ha!) when, why or how International Nose Picking Day first made its appearance, but it seems to fall each year on the 23rd of September. We suppose this is the one day of the year when it’s acceptable to do some picking in public … but for the love of life, make sure you have a tissue with you!
Night of the Radishes
Okay, so it’s a ‘night’ rather than a ‘day,’ but it still counts. In Oaxaca, Mexico, locals and visitors flock to the streets on the 23rd of December every year to partake in some hardcore radish carving and the radish competition. This event has been going on since 1897, and the grand prize winner takes home 15,000 pesos (the equivalent of about AU$1,200).
Wikipedia Day
Yes, Wikipedia has its own official day! Each year on the 15th of January, Wikipedians (those folk who write and edit articles) all around the world pay heed to the birthday of Wikipedia. Generally, they get together and eat cake or something of the sort, and celebrate the 6.7 million+ English articles on the Wiki database.
Wren Day
We know 26th December as Boxing Day, but in Ireland, it’s St. Stephens Day and also Wren Day. What few celebrations there are around the country involve young Irish lads (wrenboys) hunting a fake wren, fastening it to the top of a pole, and singing and dancing in the streets in their costumes. Why does this all go on? The legends are a little unclear, but it’s generally thought that a wren betrayed the Christian martyr of St. Stephen and hence must face punishment.
National Cleavage Day
You either got it … or you can fake it! In South Africa, National Cleavage Day falls sometime in March or April and is sponsored (unsurprisingly) by Wonderbra, Cosmo and a Johannesburg-based radio station. While light‑hearted in nature, the day supports an important cause, raising funds for the Sunflower Fund, which assists people affected by blood diseases.
Bean Throwing Day
Otherwise known as Setsubun, Bean Throwing Day is a popular one in Japan and takes place one day before the start of spring, usually around the 3rd of February and is on par with the Lunar New Year. On this day, and throughout the accompanying Setsubun Festival, the Japanese throw soybeans around their houses and in other places to scare off evil ogres and spirits.
Ferris Wheel Day
It shares its day with Valentine’s Day – 14th February – and fittingly, it requires you to take a ride on a Ferris wheel to celebrate. February 14th is the birthday of the Ferris wheel inventor, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., who was born in 1859. Not a bad excuse for a romantic Valentine’s activity!
Chocolate Mint Day
Yes, we give you permission to eat chocolate by the bucketful on this day. In the US, Chocolate Mint Day is a special one for the National Confectioners Association, who have deemed the 19th of February as Chocolate Mint Day. Of course, it can be celebrated by anyone around the world – even you! But then again, who needs an excuse to eat chocolate?
It is important to check the appropriate authority for the most up-to-date travel requirements.