On this day — April 18
A hand-curated thread of what happened on this date, across centuries.
Observed today
National Pet Owners Day
A low-key celebration of the 87 million American households that share a home with a pet — dogs, cats, parrots, and the occasional axolotl. Started in 2007 by the National Day Calendar; widely observed but not a federal holiday.
World Amateur Radio Day
Marks the day in 1925 when the International Amateur Radio Union was founded in Paris. Ham radio operators light up the airwaves to mark the occasion.
Adult Autism Awareness Day
A quieter observance spotlighting adults on the spectrum — workplaces, healthcare, and the late-diagnosis experience.
National Amaretto Day
The almond-scented Italian liqueur gets its own quiet moment every April 18th. Sip it neat, in an espresso, or skip it entirely.
National Lineman Appreciation Day
Honors the electrical line workers who climb poles in storms so the rest of us can keep the lights on. Recognized by U.S. Senate resolution in 2013.
National Columnist Day
A small nod to the newspaper opinion column — a form under pressure but not quite gone. Established by the National Society of Newspaper Columnists in memory of war correspondent Ernie Pyle, killed on this date in 1945.