Here are five fun national days to celebrate on August 19, 2025:

1. National Aviation Day (August 19)
   • History: National Aviation Day was established in 1939 by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The date of August 19th was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Orville Wright, one of the two brothers credited with inventing and building the world’s first successful airplane.
   • Relevance: This day is relevant in modern society as it gives us a chance to reflect on how aviation has transformed our world. From travel and commerce to defense and exploration, the ability to fly has had a profound impact on nearly every aspect of our lives. It is a day to honor the pioneers of aviation and to look forward to the future of flight.
   • Celebration Ideas:
     • Visit an aviation museum to learn about the history of flight.
     • Build and fly model airplanes.
     • Watch a documentary about aviation or famous aviators.
     • If you’re feeling adventurous, take a flying lesson.
     • Share your favorite aviation photos or stories on social media using #NationalAviationDay.
2. World Photography Day (August 19)
   • History: World Photography Day originates from the invention of the Daguerreotype, a photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre. On January 9, 1839, the French Academy of Sciences announced the Daguerreotype process. A few months later, on August 19, 1839, the French government purchased the patent and announced the invention as a gift “free to the world.”
   • Relevance: In our highly visual world, photography is more important than ever. It allows us to capture moments, tell stories, and connect with people across the globe. World Photography Day is a celebration of this powerful art form and a reminder of its ability to document our lives and our world.
   • Celebration Ideas:
     • Take photos throughout the day, documenting your experiences.
     • Share your favorite photo you’ve ever taken on social media with #WorldPhotographyDay.
     • Visit a photography exhibition or gallery.
     • Try a new photography technique or style.
     • Print out some of your favorite digital photos to create a physical album.
3. National Potato Day (August 19)
   • History: The exact origins of National Potato Day are not well-documented, but it’s a day that has been embraced by potato lovers everywhere. The potato itself has a long and storied history, originating in the Andes mountains of South America and eventually becoming a staple food in many parts of the world.
   • Relevance: The potato is one of the most versatile and beloved foods in the world. It’s a source of comfort, a staple of many cuisines, and a surprisingly nutritious vegetable. National Potato Day is a fun excuse to enjoy this humble but mighty tuber in all its forms.
   • Celebration Ideas:
     • Cook your favorite potato dish, whether it’s french fries, mashed potatoes, or a baked potato with all the fixings.
     • Host a potato-themed potluck where everyone brings a different dish made with potatoes.
     • Try a new potato recipe you’ve never made before.
     • Learn about the different varieties of potatoes and their best uses.
     • Share your potato creations on social media using #NationalPotatoDay.
4. National Soft Ice Cream Day (August 19)
   • History: The invention of soft-serve ice cream is often credited to Tom Carvel, the founder of the Carvel ice cream franchise. The story goes that on Memorial Day weekend in 1934, his ice cream truck had a flat tire, and he pulled into a parking lot and began selling his melting ice cream to passersby. He realized that people enjoyed the softer, melting texture. Another contender for the invention is the Kroc family (of McDonald’s fame).
   • Relevance: Soft-serve ice cream is a nostalgic treat for many, evoking memories of summer days and special occasions. It’s a simple pleasure that brings joy to people of all ages. National Soft Ice Cream Day is a perfect opportunity to indulge in this sweet and creamy dessert.
   • Celebration Ideas:
     • Visit a local ice cream shop for a soft-serve cone.
     • Try a new flavor of soft-serve or a unique topping combination.
     • Make your own soft-serve ice cream at home if you have an ice cream maker.
     • Share a photo of your soft-serve creation on social media using #NationalSoftIceCreamDay.
     • Treat a friend or family member to a soft-serve ice cream.
5. World Humanitarian Day (August 19)
   • History: World Humanitarian Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009. The date of August 19th was chosen to commemorate the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, which killed 22 people, including the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
   • Relevance: This day is a time to recognize and honor the humanitarian workers who risk their lives to help others in need. It’s also a day to raise awareness about the importance of humanitarian aid and the challenges faced by people affected by crises around the world.
   • Celebration Ideas:
     • Learn about the work of a humanitarian organization that you admire.
     • Donate to a humanitarian cause that you care about.
     • Volunteer your time to a local charity or non-profit organization.
     • Use social media to share information about World Humanitarian Day and the importance of humanitarian work, using #WorldHumanitarianDay.
     • Take a moment to thank a humanitarian worker you know for their service.