On This Day - May 26th
May 26th is a day for sunshine, heading to the beach, and making the most of spring while it's with us. Otherwise, it's a great occasion to celebrate paper airplanes, to break out some cheesecake, and to remember the world's most famous vampire. Here's May 26th in all its glory.
On this day
Lewis and Clark saw something pretty incredible.
It was on this very date back in 1805 that Lewis and Clark first saw the Rocky Mountains while undertaking their famous expeditions. In particular, the explorers noted that the peaks looked spectacular both snowcapped and in the sun. You have to see it to believe it!
Napoleon got a new title.
Although we mainly remember him for being Emperor of France, Napoleon Bonaparte was also King of Italy at one point! He was crowned on this very date back in 1805 - and while his reign may not have lasted too long, he certainly made his mark on European history for good.
The world was introduced to a terrifying vampire!
Although Dracula may be eternal, we can actually trace his beginnings back to this very date back in 1897. It was the date that the book by Bram Stoker was first published by Archibald Constable and Company in London. Dracula is now an iconic character that’s seen numerous adventures on screen as well as on the page.
Betsy Ross’ house was given to the city.
In 1941, Betsy Ross’ House, also known as the American Flag House, was given to the city of Philadelphia. This location is important to both state and country - as it’s where many believe Ross lived and sewed the very first US flag.
Sgt Pepper opened his lonely heart to all.
In 1967, today was the date that the world was finally introduced to “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” arguably one of The Beatles’ most popular and enduring LPs. The figures really do speak for themselves - the album spent 15 weeks at number one here in the US!
Special Days Falling on May 26th
No one likes having to wait for the holidays to celebrate something, so you’ll be glad to know that May 26th is rife with things to mark on the calendar! It happens to be a top day for making paper planes, taking trips, and chowing down on cheesecake.
National Paper Airplane Day
As children, most of us learned how to make paper airplanes at school - but have you tried making any more since then? It’s a great way to dip our toes into engineering and pass the time - and May 26th happens to be the best day of the year to try out your papercraft. Try marking it with your own creations, and see how far they can fly!
National Road Trip Day
Nothing beats a good road trip. Whether on your own or with loved ones, every road trip should have some great music, snacks, and creature comforts - and May 26th marks an official day for people to get out of their comfort zones and explore somewhere new and exciting on the road. But don’t forget the cooler!
National Blueberry Cheesecake Day
Blueberry cheesecake is a tart yet sweet treat that millions of us across the US really enjoy - and today happens to be an “official” day to enjoy it all the more. Is blueberry your favorite flavor of cheesecake? Why not make your own and share a slice or two with the people in your life who really matter?
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This page was last modified on August 3, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
We got the first color pictures of Earth! Thanks to astronauts aboard the Apollo 10 spacecraft sailing high above the Earth in May 1969, we got to see full-color shots of the stunning Rio Grande, Gulf of California, and San Joaquin Valley. We have the likes of Thomas P Stafford, John W Young, and Eugene E Cernan to thank - as well as two modules named "Charlie Brown" and "Snoopy!"
Famous Birthdays on May 26th
If you were born on May 26th…
That would make you a fascinating Gemini. In the Western Zodiac, Geminis are regarded as hyper-inquisitive, super-friendly people who want to know as much about the world as possible. That can get you into a few creative scrapes here and there, so just make sure to take care!
In the meantime, read up on our Gemini fact file to find out more about yourself!
