NATIONAL DAYSCIENCE & TECH

National Inventors’ Day

On this special day, we recognize the brilliance of inventors who transformed ideas into reality.

FEB11
Thursday, February 11Every year on February 11
 days to go
Roots
Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan
Vibe
A celebration of creativity and innovation
Hashtag
#NationalInventors8217Day
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Sketch an invention

Draw your wildest idea for solving an everyday problem.

WITH FRIENDS

Brainstorm together

Challenge friends to invent something useful from random objects.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Study great inventors

Research an inventor and share what inspired their big idea.

Plan ahead

National Inventors’ Day is observed on February 11 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, Feb 11this year
2027Thu, Feb 11
2028Fri, Feb 11
2029Sun, Feb 11
2030Mon, Feb 11
2031Tue, Feb 11
2032Wed, Feb 11
2033Fri, Feb 11
2034Sat, Feb 11
2035Sun, Feb 11
2036Mon, Feb 11

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Thomas Edison holds over 1,000 patents
The U.S. Patent Office was established in 1790

The story

National Inventors' Day is celebrated annually on February 11, coinciding with the birthday of Thomas Edison, one of America’s most prolific inventors. This day serves as a reminder of the vital role that inventors play in shaping our society through their innovations. From the light bulb to the phonograph, Edison's contributions exemplify the spirit of ingenuity that drives progress.

Read the full story

The day was officially recognized by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 as a way to honor the inventors who have made significant contributions to the United States and the world. Innovators like Alexander Graham Bell, who invented the telephone, and George Washington Carver, known for his work with peanuts, have left lasting legacies. Their stories inspire future generations to think creatively and pursue their ideas.

Celebrating inventors goes beyond recognizing their inventions; it is about fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. Schools, communities, and organizations across the nation take part in activities that encourage exploration and curiosity. Workshops, exhibitions, and contests are held to ignite the spark of invention in young minds. This celebration of creativity emphasizes the importance of nurturing innovative thinking.

As we observe National Inventors' Day, let us reflect on the impact of these pioneers. Their inventions have not only changed the course of history but also improved our daily lives. In a world that increasingly relies on technology, the spirit of invention remains vital. Encouraging the next generation of inventors ensures that creativity will continue to flourish for years to come.

Did you know?

01

Edison’s Early Life

Thomas Edison was homeschooled by his mother and had only a few months of formal education.

02

The First Patent

The first U.S. patent was granted to Samuel Hopkins in 1790 for a method of making potash.

03

Women Inventors

Women like Hedy Lamarr contributed to technology as well, inventing frequency-hopping spread spectrum.

04

Patents Today

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office receives over 600,000 patent applications each year.

05

The Light Bulb

Edison tested thousands of materials before finding a lasting filament.

06

International Inventors

Inventors from around the world contribute to global advancements in various fields.

07

Innovation Drives Economy

Inventions are crucial for economic growth, driving industries and creating jobs.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesRecognized officially in the U.S. as a day to honor inventors.
  • CACanadaCelebrates innovation and inventors' contributions to society.
  • GBUnited KingdomHome to many renowned inventors and a rich history of innovation.
  • DEGermanyKnown for engineering excellence and significant technological advancements.
  • JPJapanA leader in technology and innovation, with numerous global patents.
  • FRFranceCelebrates inventors like Louis Pasteur and their impact on science.

Keep the party going

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