January 20 Holiday – Celebrations and Fun Facts
January 20 is a special day in the United States, featuring a mix of meaningful traditions and fun celebrations. From important historical events to delightful food-themed days, it’s an opportunity to explore and appreciate America’s rich cultural diversity.
Whether you’re interested in politics, wildlife conservation, music, or tasty treats, there’s something enjoyable for everyone on January 20. Let’s take a closer look at these unique observances!
You may so like: Free January 2025 Calendar Printable Templates
January 20 Holidays and Observances
Inauguration Day
Inauguration Day is observed every four years on January 20 following a presidential election. This is the day the newly elected President and Vice President of the United States officially take office. The day is marked by an inauguration ceremony held in Washington, D.C., including the swearing-in ceremony, inaugural address, parades, and celebrations across the nation.
National Cheese Lovers Day
January 20 is also celebrated as National Cheese Lovers Day, a favorite among food enthusiasts. On this day, Americans are encouraged to explore various cheese varieties, from classic cheddars to unique artisan selections, celebrating the rich cheese-making tradition in the United States. Cheese tasting events, special recipes, and promotions are common on this day.
Penguin Awareness Day
Penguin Awareness Day, observed on January 20, raises awareness about penguins, focusing on their conservation, environmental threats, and the importance of protecting their habitats. Zoos, aquariums, and conservation groups often host educational events and activities to teach people about these beloved birds and how they can support penguin conservation efforts.
National Disc Jockey Day
National Disc Jockey Day honors radio DJs and music mixers who entertain and inform the public through music and broadcasts. Celebrated annually on January 20, it commemorates influential American DJ Alan Freed, who helped popularize rock and roll music. Fans often acknowledge the contributions DJs have made to the music and entertainment industry.
Famous People Born on January 20
January 20 is the birthday of numerous notable individuals who have made their mark in diverse fields, including entertainment, literature, gaming, and even notorious historical figures. Here are some of the most recognized:
Enoch L. Johnson (1883)
An infamous American mob boss who significantly influenced politics and organized crime in Atlantic City, later inspiring the fictional character Nucky Thompson in the TV series Boardwalk Empire.
Forrest Wilson (1883)
An American journalist and author, well-known for his literary contributions and insightful reporting, making significant impacts in journalism and public discourse.
Leon Ames (1902)
Prominent American actor recognized for his roles in classic films such as Meet Me in St. Louis and The Postman Always Rings Twice, leaving an enduring legacy in Hollywood’s golden age.
Buzz Aldrin (1930)
Buzz Aldrin, born January 20, 1930, is a legendary American astronaut and engineer, recognized as the second person to walk on the Moon during NASA’s Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Aldrin remains an influential advocate for space exploration.
David Lynch (1946)
David Lynch, born January 20, 1946, is an iconic American filmmaker known for his surrealist style and innovative storytelling. His acclaimed works include the films Eraserhead, Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and the groundbreaking television series Twin Peaks.
Paul Stanley (1952)
Paul Stanley, born January 20, 1952, is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the co-founder, rhythm guitarist, and lead vocalist for the legendary rock band KISS. Stanley’s distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence have made him a rock icon.
Bill Maher (1956)
Bill Maher, born January 20, 1956, is an American comedian, television host, and political commentator known for his sharp wit and satirical approach. He’s famous for hosting talk shows like Politically Incorrect and HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher.
Lorenzo Lamas (1958)
American actor best known for his performances in popular TV series including Falcon Crest and Renegade, celebrated for his charismatic presence and versatile acting career.
Tami Hoag (1959)
Bestselling American author famous for suspenseful thrillers and crime novels, captivating readers with gripping stories like Night Sins and Ashes to Ashes.
R.A. Salvatore (1959)
Renowned American author highly acclaimed for his fantasy novels, particularly the popular Forgotten Realms series featuring the iconic character Drizzt Do’Urden.
Will Wright (1960)
American video game designer and visionary co-founder of Maxis, responsible for creating groundbreaking games such as The Sims and SimCity, significantly influencing gaming culture.
James Denton (1963)
American actor celebrated for his notable roles, especially Mike Delfino in the hit TV series Desperate Housewives, appreciated by fans worldwide for his talent and charisma.
Evan Peters (1987)
Evan Peters, born January 20, 1987, is a versatile American actor acclaimed for his roles in TV series such as American Horror Story, Mare of Easttown, and portraying Jeffrey Dahmer in Netflix’s Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. Peters is known for his compelling portrayals of complex characters.
Historical Events on January 20
January 20 is a significant date that witnessed many notable events shaping history, politics, and culture worldwide. Here are some key historical events on this day:
1841 – British Occupation of Hong Kong Island
On January 20, 1841, British forces began their occupation of Hong Kong Island, marking the start of British colonial rule that would continue for over 150 years.
1887 – Pearl Harbor Leased by U.S. Navy
The U.S. Senate granted the United States Navy permission to lease Pearl Harbor in Hawaii as a naval base, significantly enhancing America’s strategic military presence in the Pacific.
1920 – Establishment of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
On this date, the ACLU was founded to defend individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution, becoming a vital advocate for civil liberties in the United States.
1929 – Release of “In Old Arizona”
“In Old Arizona” the first full-length motion picture filmed outdoors with sound, premiered, representing a breakthrough in filmmaking technology and cinema history.
1936 – Edward VIII Becomes King
Edward VIII ascended the throne of the United Kingdom following the death of his father, King George V, although his reign would famously end in abdication later that same year.
1937 – Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Second Inauguration
Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated for his second term as the 32nd President of the United States, marking the first presidential inauguration held on January 20, following the ratification of the 20th Amendment.
1941 – Bucharest Pogrom in Romania
Following the assassination of a German officer in Bucharest, Romania, Nazi-led forces carried out violent reprisals, resulting in the deaths of over 125 Jewish civilians and 30 soldiers, marking a tragic event during World War II.
1945 – Evacuation of East Prussia Begins
The mass evacuation of approximately 1.8 million civilians from East Prussia commenced, as advancing Soviet forces closed in during the final stages of World War II.
1953 – Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Inauguration
Dwight D. Eisenhower was inaugurated as the 34th President of the United States, initiating significant changes in American domestic policy and foreign affairs.
1954 – National Negro Network Launched
Forty charter member radio stations launched the National Negro Network, marking an essential step forward in African-American broadcasting history.
1961 – John F. Kennedy Inaugurated as U.S. President
John F. Kennedy became the 35th President of the United States, famously urging citizens to “ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country,” inspiring generations.
1981 – Iran Hostage Crisis Ends
After 444 days in captivity, 52 American hostages were finally released by Iran, moments after Ronald Reagan took office as the 40th President of the United States.
1986 – First Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observed
The United States officially observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday for the first time, honoring the legacy of the renowned civil rights leader.
2009 – Barack Obama’s Historic Inauguration
Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th President of the United States, becoming the first African-American to hold the nation’s highest office, symbolizing a historic milestone in American history.
2017 – Donald Trump’s Inauguration
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States, beginning a presidency noted for substantial policy shifts and intense political debates.