NATIONAL DAYSCIENCE & TECH

National Moon Day

Join us in honoring the historic Apollo 11 mission that brought humanity to the lunar surface.

JUL20

Tuesday, July 20Every year on July 20

days to go

Roots: Proclaimed by President Richard Nixon in 1971
Vibe: A celebration of exploration and discovery
Also on Jul 20: Pennsylvania Day · World Jump Day · International Chess Day
Hashtag: #NationalMoonDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Stargaze tonight

Grab a blanket and watch the moon rise from your yard.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a moonlit walk

Take a nighttime stroll and snap photos of the moon together.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Make moon phase art

Paint or cut paper moons for a hallway display this week.

Plan ahead

National Moon Day is observed on July 20 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Jul 20this year

2027Tue, Jul 20

2028Thu, Jul 20

2029Fri, Jul 20

2030Sat, Jul 20

2031Sun, Jul 20

2032Tue, Jul 20

2033Wed, Jul 20

2034Thu, Jul 20

2035Fri, Jul 20

2036Sun, Jul 20

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Fast facts

Only 12 astronauts have walked on the moon

The moon is about 238,855 miles from Earth

The story

National Moon Day falls on July 20 each year, marking the anniversary of NASA's Apollo 11 mission in 1969. On this historic day, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the lunar surface, leaving an indelible mark on history. Their brave journey transformed our understanding of space and showcased what humanity can achieve with determination and innovation.

Read the full story

The Apollo 11 mission was a culmination of years of research, development, and grit, culminating in a televised event that captivated millions across the globe. Armstrong’s famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind"echoed not just on Earth but also in our collective consciousness, inspiring generations to dream of the stars and beyond.

Celebrating National Moon Day serves as a reminder of the importance of exploration and science in our lives. It invites us to reflect on our place in the universe and encourages curiosity about the cosmos. Schools, communities, and families come together to honor this day with various activities, from stargazing to educational events.

As we commemorate this monumental achievement, we are reminded of the potential that lies within each of us to explore and innovate. The moon, a constant presence in our night sky, symbolizes hope and possibility, encouraging us to reach for our dreams, much like the astronauts who ventured into the unknown.