1

Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day

Image: Adam Sherez

Let’s kick off this list with a day that nobody ever imagined would be a thing, but here we are nonetheless! Have you ever heard of cows taking to the skies? Well, in 1930, that became true. A cow named Elm Farm Ollie became the first to fly in an airplane and be milked while airborne! This curious day, observed on February 18th, honors Ollie’s mile-high milking session.

You might be wondering why they did this in the first place. It was actually a scientific experiment to test the cow’s ability to produce milk during flight. And it was great publicity for the aircraft they used to do it. A classic win-win, and a quirky holiday on the side!

2

Namesake Day

Image: Jamie Street

Do you know that feeling when you walk up to a certain group for the first time and, among the introductions, you discover someone shares your name? You may not have anything else in common with that person, but the invisible string is there and that’s thanks to having the same name.

In our country, there’s even a day dedicated to celebrating our namesakes . That is every first Saturday in March, though the reason or origin behind this day remains unclear. However, it is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our shared identities.

3

Sock Monkey Day

Image: Denisse Leon

This list is getting crazier and crazier and don’t say you weren’t warned! But isn’t it fun to learn that there is a National Sock Monkey Day in our country? This holiday celebrates one of America’s quirkiest homemade toys: the sock monkey!

Traditionally made from Rockford Red Heel socks, these little guys have been around since the 1890s, although some also say that they were the result of the Great Depression.

Regardless, when can you celebrate this charming tradition? March 7th is the official day to honor this cheerful craft. It’s a day for making, gifting, or simply hugging a sock monkey in appreciation. With a little patience and a pair of old socks, you might even make one yourself! Embrace your inner child and get crafty on Sock Monkey Day!

4

National Senior Citizens Day

Image: Clay Banks

This one is not crazy at all! If anything, this one should be a must-celebrate for everyone! August 21st is all about recognizing the wisdom and experience that come with age. Established by President Reagan in 1988, National Senior Citizens Day encourages respect and appreciation for older generations.

Now, what motivated this holiday? As medical technology improved over time, life expectancy increased dramatically. While it was common to live for 30 years in the Late Middle Ages, by the 20th century, people were reaching 50 or even 60 years. That progress alone was reason enough to celebrate—and thus, this special day was born!

5

National Fried Chicken Day

Image: Tyson

If we gave you thirty seconds to name the most American things you can think of, how long would it take for fried chicken to make your list? It would probably be the second or third item on your list, right? Well, now you can see why fried chicken has a national day too!

July 6th is National Fried Chicken Day, a day to revel in one of America’s tastiest comfort foods! From crispy Southern-style to spicy Nashville hot, fried chicken has a place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. The origins of fried chicken are a blend of Scottish and West African cooking traditions, but today it’s an American staple.

Not that we need much of a reason to have a nice bucket of fried chicken, but isn’t it extra special to indulge on its very own day?

6

Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Image: Nathan Dumlao

Don’t we all do that every single day of our lives? So, what makes this a special holiday? Put on Your Own Shoes Day on December 6th may seem simple, but when you read into it, you’ll find it’s a subtle nod to independence.

The truth is information regarding the origins of this day is not abundant, but we can confidently say that it’s more of a symbolic celebration. It’s a day to help our little ones learn how to tie their shoes, or maybe take their first steps. It’s also a metaphor that, adults as we are, we have made it this far, after all, independence comes in many forms, even lacing up your shoes! So, walk proudly on this quirky holiday and celebrate your strides toward independence!

7

National Ghost Hunting Day

Image: Erik Müller

No, this is not the same as Halloween, of course. But, if you may, it’s kind of a warm-up for the spooky season, since this one takes place on the last Saturday in September, exactly a month before Halloween, making it the perfect prelude to all things eerie.

For those who enjoy a good scare , National Ghost Hunting Day was created in 2016 and is perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal. Groups often venture to "haunted" spots armed with flashlights, cameras, and a lot of curiosity. It’s also a chance to explore local legends and folklore about ghosts and spirits. Even if you stay home, you can participate by watching a ghost-hunting show. Get your flashlight ready and have a ghoulishly good time!

8

National Nothing Day

Image: Edwin Splisser

What? That’s right, this one is indeed a National Day and it has been ever since 1973 when Harold Coffin, an American newspaper columnist suggested that there were too many useless commemorative days . This is getting meta, don’t you think?

Anyway, National Nothing Day is celebrated every January 16th, and it is, quite literally, a day to do absolutely nothing! It was originally conceived as a way to avoid celebrations, this day offers a "holiday from holidays." There are no obligations, no parades, and no need to mark the occasion in any way. In short, this day is a license to relax. You may be wondering what should you do to celebrate and the answer is right there: Nothing!

9

National Spaghetti Day

Image: Jeswin Thomas

Spaghetti is not exclusive to America, it’s a dish gifted to the world by the Italians. But America, with its classic intense feelings about the things that make it great, felt the need to create a day specifically designed to have a delicious bowl of Spaghetti . And honestly? We love it!

January 4th is National Spaghetti Day, a pasta dream come true! The best part is that there are as many variations and toppings as there are people who enjoy it. Whether you love it with marinara, meatballs, or pesto, there’s a recipe for everyone.

Many celebrate by whipping up a pasta dish or visiting their favorite Italian restaurant. Whatever you choose, twirl some spaghetti and toast to this delicious day!

10

National If Pets Had Thumbs Day

Image: Jamie Street

Imagine if your cat could open the fridge or your dog could hitchhike! If only, right?

March 3rd is National If Pets Had Thumbs Day in our country, a humorous look at what life would be like if pets had opposable thumbs.

The day makes us all wonder about the possibilities, and maybe even the mischief if we know our furry friends, of a more skillful pet . What would be the first thing you’d do? Some pet owners share funny stories or create scenarios imagining what their pets might do with that extra dexterity.

This holiday is all about celebrating the quirks and charm of our pets. Get ready to laugh, because a thumbs-up from your pet might be closer than ever!

1

Bigfoot

Image: Jon Sailer

Legend and cultural icon, Bigfoot— also known as Sasquatch— has fueled our imaginations since at least the mid-20th century. This mythical creature, which appears in both American and Canadian folklore, is believed to inhabit the forests of the Pacific Northwest.

Its origin is not entirely clear, but it likely stems from a blend of stories brought by European immigrants and tales from North American indigenous cultures. Many people throughout history claim to have seen Bigfoot and describe it as a 6- to 9-foot, half-human, half-ape creature covered in dark hair. Others have only found its large 24-inch footprints, which has certainly helped keep the legend alive.

2

Pukwudgie

Image: Johannes Plenio

Pukwudgies are mythical creatures from Native American folklore, more precisely from the New England region. They are described as small, humanoid beings, about 2 to 3 feet tall, with grayish skin, pointed ears, and spines on their back.

According to Wampanoag legends, Pukwudgies are considered guardians of the forest. They are mischievous creatures with the ability to disappear and move swiftly through the forest. In addition, they are known to cast spells and curses on those who offend them or cross their path. So now you know, if you ever travel to these lands, remember to be respectful and honor nature to avoid being punished by these protective little monsters.

3

The Jersey Devil

Image: Belinda Fewings

There are not as many sightings of the Jersey Devil as there are of other creatures on this list. However, some people claim to have found traces of claw prints made by a two-legged creature. The few eyewitnesses who were able to catch a glimpse describe the Jersey Devil as a bizarre assortment of different animal parts, resembling everything from kangaroos and dogs to horses and even reptiles.

This creature theoretically inhabits an area in South Jersey known as the Pine Barrens. It is linked to a local legend from 1735, which claims that a woman nicknamed Mother Leeds allegedly cursed her thirteenth unborn child. The baby eventually became a demon who murdered the entire family and fled to the woods to steal livestock and terrify unwary travelers to the end of times.

4

Urayuli

Image: osensei

Very similar to Bigfoot, the Urayuli, or "hairy men," are a mythical race of creatures that live in the woodlands of southwestern Alaska, near Lake Iliamna. Those who claim to have seen the Urayuli describe them as being 10 feet tall, with shaggy hair, luminescent eyes, and long arms stretching down to their ankles.

According to lore, the Urayuli are said to be transformed children who got lost in the forest, therefore they are considered peaceful creatures. Taking this into consideration, it is very likely that this legend was born as a cautionary tale to prevent children from wandering out alone at night.

5

Wendigo

Image: DGSstudios

One of the most terrifying creatures in Native American mythology is the Wendigo. According to legends originating in Algonquian folklore, the Wendigo is an evil spirit that feeds on human flesh. This creature is believed to have the ability to possess people, turning them into starving monsters who cannot help but devour other humans.

The Wendigo has been depicted in various forms throughout history but is generally described as a slender, skeletal giant with glowing eyes and sharp fangs. This malevolent, cannibalistic, and supernatural being is usually associated with cold winters, as well as with greed and gluttony.

6

Wampus Cat

Image: Peter .

The Wampus cat is usually described as a fierce, bipedal creature with a humanoid body and a feline head. This spectral, panther-sized beast has been reported across the American Southeast for centuries, with numerous legends about its origins varying by region.

One of the most famous stories has its roots in Alabama and comes from a Native American tradition. According to this story, a Cherokee woman disguised herself in the skin of a mountain lion to secretly follow her husband on a hunting trip. When the men gathered around the fire to share stories forbidden to women discovered her, they cursed her to spend eternity as a half-woman, half-mountain lion.

7

Florida Skunk Ape

Image: RyanMcGuire

Florida, the Sunshine State, has its own version of Bigfoot: the Skunk Ape. This creature is said to resemble an orangutan more than the gorilla-like Sasquatch. This particular being got its name for the pungent odor that announces its presence and was seen many times lurking around the Florida swampland during the 1960s and 1970s.

Sightings were so common during that time that, in 1977, the state legislature had to introduce a bill to protect the elusive man-ape. Although the bill was never passed and Florida wildlife officials deny the existence of the Skunk Ape, many people continue to report sightings of the black, hairy creature to this day.

8

Champ

Image: GregMontani

If you thought Scotland had the only lake monster, you haven't met Champ yet. Lake Champlain, a freshwater lake in New York, is said to be home to America's most famous lake monster. Since the early 19th century, there have been accounts of Europeans claiming to have seen a seahorse-headed creature emerging from the water. However, the local Native Americans, the Abenaki, and the Iroquois, had stories of a horned serpent called Tatoskok dating back much earlier.

Over the years this beast has manifested itself to numerous people. In fact, in 1977, a woman named Sandra Mansi claimed to have taken a photo showing a creature with a small head and a long neck, which—let's be honest—looks suspiciously similar to the Loch Ness Monster.

9

Menehune

Image: Timothy Dykes

The Menehune are a mythological race of little people in Hawaiian tradition that only appear at night. For the most part, these two-foot-tall creatures are harmless, although they can become angry if disturbed. It is believed that these supernatural beings may have originated from ancient ancestors who populated the Pacific region, eventually evolving into folklore.

The Menehune are said to be builders, gifted with great strength and architectural skill. They construct stone structures such as dams, roads, and sacred worship sites known as heiau . They work when nobody is watching, so beware—never interrupt them, or they will vanish.

10

Beast of Busco

Image: Pascal Mauerhofer

In this article, we have explored a wide array of mythological creatures resembling apes, cats, birds, serpents, and even humanoids. However, you probably won't guess what kind of creature the Beast of Busco is. In 1898 a farmer from Churubusco, Northern Indiana, claimed to have spotted an enormous turtle in Fulk Lake.

His story was corroborated fifty years later by two fishermen who reported seeing a giant turtle weighing at least five hundred pounds and with a shell as big as the roof of a car. Such was the commotion that the lake’s owner at the time went so far as to drain it in order to catch the creature, which proved to be impossible. Since then, every June, the town of Churubusco celebrates Turtle Days festival, which includes a carnival, a parade, and—wait for it—turtle races.

1

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Image: Daniel Hooper 🌊

Not all great flavors match, but pizza and barbecue chicken certainly do. This delightful fusion features tangy BBQ sauce, tender grilled chicken, and often sweet onions , creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Some recipes are known to include smoked bacon or sweet corn, adding an extra layer of flavor. It’s a modern, flavorful twist on traditional pizza.

2

Supreme Pizza

Image: Klara Kulikova

The name itself sets the stage for a memorable flavor, and this pizza does not disappoint. Supreme Pizza is a hearty option designed to satisfy everyone. It combines several toppings, including pepperoni, sausage, onions, peppers, and mushrooms .

While it can be made at home, the sheer number of ingredients might make it easier to enjoy from your local pizzeria.

3

White Sauce Pizza

Image: Ivan Torres

The omnipresent tomato sauce, which gives a noble base flavor to our pizza toppings, is set aside for this iteration and trades seats with a creamy white sauce instead.

Combine olive oil and garlic to coat the dough or make a homemade white sauce. This white pizza version can use a ricotta cheese base. Keep the toppings simple so the sauce remains the star—think mozzarella cheese, roasted cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

4

Pickle Pizza

Image: SuckerPunch Gourmet

Another flavor that shouldn't work—but does—is a pizza topped with pickled cucumbers. Some pizza joints across the country offer this unique version that uses pickles and spices as its topping .

The pizza is completed with the classic tomato sauce and a light cheese, to avoid clashing too much with the vinegar from the pickles.

5

Grilled Pizza

Image: Revolve Pizza Oven

Unlike the previous versions, the distinctive flavor of this pizza comes from its unique cooking method. The stretched dough is placed directly on the grates over hot coals , cooking it on one side, flipping the dough, and topping it in reverse—cheese first, sauce second. After this, the pizza goes back to the grates in order for the other side to cook and for the cheese to melt.

The resulting pizza is a crispy, airy, well-charred delight with a smoky flavor. Grilled pizza can be topped with virtually any ingredient according to personal preferences.

6

Green Peppers Pizza

Image: Anna Evans

A healthy and popular pizza topping in America, green peppers bring a crispy and refreshing dimension to any slice. Combined with onions and maybe even mushrooms they create an extremely flavorful, crispy, and crunchy ingredient that adds a refreshing dimension to a pizza.

7

Mexican Pizza

Image: Nik Owens

Mexican food is often associated with tacos, guacamole, nachos, and other delicious treats but Mexican pizza is a force to be reckoned with, too. The main ingredients are chorizo, jalapeños, pepperoni, red onion, and cannellini beans . It’s spicy and tangy, with a satisfying texture thanks to the ground meat and beans.

If you ever see this on the menu, don’t hesitate—go for it! You won’t regret it.

8

Burrata Pizza

Image: Klara Kulikova

Burrata cheese is like the supreme version of mozzarella: creamy, soft, and utterly delicious. A good burrata pizza includes cherry tomatoes, pistachio mortadella, and, of course, burrata cheese .

It’s not often you’ll find this on your local pizzeria’s menu, so if you spot it and want to try something special, give it a shot!

9

Greek Pizza

Image: Brenna Huff

Mediterranean cuisine goes beyond Italian flavors and Greek pizza adds some interesting ingredients to the recipe. This version is characterized by its thick, slightly wet dough, greasy cheese, and tomato sauce with a strong taste of oregano .

The typical ingredients for Greek pizza include artichokes, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.

10

Pesto Pizza

Image: Klara Kulikova

If you associate pesto with pasta rather than pizza, you are not alone. But, as a fellow Italian specialty, pizza also benefits greatly from this aromatic sauce and its ingredients. The rich flavors of cheese and pine nuts in pesto complement the basic ingredients of a cheese pizza perfectly. Topped with parmesan cheese, mushrooms, and oregano , this pizza is nothing short of amazing.