Celebrate June 20th: 5 Unique Holidays That Make This Day Special

Every day on the calendar holds stories, traditions, and causes that inspire us to reflect, connect, and celebrate. June 20th is no exception. As we move closer to summer’s peak, this day shines with celebrations that honor the earth, recognize resilience, and encourage kindness. Whether you’re looking to deepen your awareness or simply enjoy the moment, here are five compelling holidays and observances celebrated around the world on June 20th.

1. World Refugee Day

Origin & History:
Established by the United Nations in 2001, World Refugee Day honors the courage and resilience of refugees worldwide. The date was chosen to coincide with Africa Refugee Day, long observed in many African countries.

How It’s Celebrated:

• UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) organizes global events, storytelling campaigns, and public forums.

• Communities host art exhibits, concerts, film screenings, and fundraisers for refugee support programs.

• Educational institutions promote refugee narratives and invite former refugees to speak about their journeys.

Why It Matters:
With over 100 million displaced people globally, this day raises awareness about their struggles and resilience, and urges global action to protect and support those forced to flee their homes.

2. Summer Solstice (Varies, but often falls on June 20)

Origin & History:
The Summer Solstice marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Druids, and Aztecs celebrated this celestial event as a turning point in the sun’s cycle.

How It’s Celebrated:

• Stonehenge in England becomes a gathering spot for modern-day Druids, pagans, and spiritual seekers.

• Scandinavian countries celebrate with bonfires, floral wreaths, and dancing.

• Farmers and gardeners traditionally plant or harvest with rituals tied to the season’s abundance.

Why It Matters:
The solstice represents life, fertility, and the power of the sun. It’s a moment to pause and appreciate nature’s cycles, and to reconnect with ancient wisdom about balance and renewal.

3. National Ice Cream Soda Day (USA)

Origin & History:
This delightful treat dates back to the late 19th century, when soda fountains were the heart of many American towns. Ice Cream Soda Day celebrates that nostalgic combo of fizzy soda and creamy ice cream.

How It’s Celebrated:

• Soda shops and diners offer special deals or retro-themed events.

• People get creative at home, experimenting with combinations like root beer and vanilla or orange soda and sherbet.

• Some host social gatherings, especially with kids or seniors, around “build your own soda float” bars.

Why It Matters:
This day brings a refreshing dose of joy and nostalgia. It’s a sweet reason to slow down, share a treat, and savor the small things in life—especially during warm summer afternoons.

4. International Surfing Day

Origin & History:
Founded in 2005 by Surfrider Foundation and Surfing Magazine, this day promotes both the sport and the protection of ocean ecosystems.

How It’s Celebrated:

• Coastal communities organize beach cleanups, surf contests, and ocean-awareness festivals.

• Beginners are encouraged to take lessons and experience surfing’s culture of balance, fun, and respect for nature.

• Social media campaigns highlight ocean conservation efforts.

Why It Matters:
More than a sport, surfing is a lifestyle and a call to environmental stewardship. This day highlights the urgent need to protect marine habitats, reduce plastic pollution, and embrace sustainable living.

5. National Kouign-Amann Day (USA)

Origin & History:
Kouign-Amann (pronounced “queen-a-mahn”) is a French pastry from Brittany. Known for its rich, buttery, caramelized layers, it was dubbed “the fattiest pastry in Europe”—in the best way possible. The holiday gained traction among pastry lovers and artisan bakeries in the 2010s.

How It’s Celebrated:

• Bakeries across the U.S. offer Kouign-Amann specials or run baking workshops.

• Foodies take to social media to share their pastry pictures with the hashtag #KouignAmannDay.

• Home bakers challenge themselves to master the laminated dough process.

Why It Matters:
This day celebrates craftsmanship in baking and the joy of indulgence. It’s a delicious way to explore global culinary traditions—and reward your taste buds.

Celebrate the Power of Today

From honoring the strength of displaced people to sipping soda floats under the solstice sun, June 20th is packed with opportunities to connect, reflect, and enjoy. Which holiday speaks to you today? Whether you hit the waves, join a beach cleanup, or just take a moment to reflect on our shared humanity—celebrate intentionally.

We’d love to hear how you’re marking June 20th. Drop a comment below, share your favorite ice cream soda combo, or tell us how your community honors World Refugee Day.