Every year on May 13 , aviation enthusiasts, movie buffs, and adrenaline junkies come together to celebrate International Top Gun Day , honoring the 1986 blockbuster film Top Gun that defined a generation. Directed by Tony Scott and starring Tom Cruise as the cocky yet talented fighter pilot Maverick , this high-octane movie revolutionized action cinema, inspired military recruitment, and made aviator sunglasses a global fashion statement. Why May 13? Cinematic Legacy : Though not the film’s exact release date (May 16, 1986), May 13 was adopted by fans as the unofficial celebration day—likely to avoid overlap with other May events. Sequel Boost : The 2022 release of Top Gun: Maverick reignited the fandom, making this day even more popular. The Impact of Top Gun ✔ Military Recruitment : The U.S. Navy reported a 500% increase in pilot applications after the film’s release. ✔ Soundtrack Sensation : The Oscar-winning song "Take My Breath Away" (Berlin) and "Danger...

  Every year on May 13 , the United States celebrates National Apple Pie Day , honoring the iconic dessert that has become synonymous with American culture. With its flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and nostalgic aroma, apple pie embodies comfort, tradition, and the simple pleasures of home baking. A Brief History of Apple Pie in America Colonial Roots : Early settlers brought pie-making traditions from Europe, adapting them with native ingredients. By the 18th century, apple pie was a staple in American kitchens. Symbol of Patriotism : The phrase "as American as apple pie" took hold during WWII, when soldiers cited it as a taste of home. Fun Fact : Despite its association with the U.S., apples originated in Kazakhstan , and pie crusts date back to ancient Egypt ! Why Apple Pie Day Matters ✔ Cultural Icon : Represents hospitality, family gatherings, and Americana. ✔ Versatility : Endless variations—deep-dish, crumb-top, lattice, or even cheddar-crust (a New England ...

  Every year on May 13 , the United States leaps into celebration with National Frog Jumping Day , a whimsical holiday inspired by Mark Twain’s famous 1865 short story, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County." This lighthearted day honors both amphibian athleticism and a beloved piece of American literary folklore. The Origins: Mark Twain’s Jumping Frog Literary Roots : Twain’s humorous tale features a frog named Dan’l Webster , who’s secretly weighted down with shot pellets to lose a jumping contest. Real-Life Legacy : The story popularized frog-jumping contests, leading to the annual Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee in California (held since 1928). Why Celebrate Frog Jumping? ✔ Cultural Quirk : A uniquely American tradition blending literature, comedy, and small-town charm. ✔ STEM Connection : Frog anatomy (powerful hind legs, lightweight bodies) teaches biomechanics. ✔ Conservation Awareness : Highlights amphibian declines due to habitat loss an...

  Every year on May 13 , bartenders, cocktail enthusiasts, and casual sippers alike raise their glasses to celebrate World Cocktail Day . This spirited holiday honors the creativity, history, and craftsmanship behind cocktails—from timeless classics like the Martini to modern mixology marvels. Whether you prefer a smoky Old Fashioned or a fruity Mojito, today is the day to toast the art of blending flavors. A Brief History of Cocktails Origins : The term "cocktail" was first defined in 1806 as a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters (thanks to The Balance and Columbian Repository newspaper). Prohibition Era : Speakeasies in the 1920s fueled innovation (hello, Bathtub Gin!). Golden Age Revival : Today’s craft cocktail movement draws inspiration from pre-Prohibition recipes. Why World Cocktail Day Matters ✔ Cultural Heritage : Cocktails reflect history—like the Daiquiri (Cuba) or Negroni (Italy). ✔ Global Industry : Bartending is a $1+ trillion worldwide business. ...

  Every year on May 13 , food lovers across the globe unite to celebrate International Hummus Day , honoring the creamy, versatile, and protein-packed Middle Eastern staple that has conquered plates worldwide. Made from humble ingredients— chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic —hummus is a culinary superstar, bridging cultures and diets from Beirut to Berlin to Brooklyn. A Brief History of Hummus Ancient Roots : Evidence of chickpea dishes dates back to 13th-century Egypt , with early recipes appearing in Arab cookbooks. Cultural Icon : Claimed by Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, and Greece , hummus sparks friendly debates over its origin (but everyone agrees it’s delicious). Global Boom : In the 21st century, hummus went mainstream, with the global market exceeding $1 billion annually . Why Hummus Day Matters ✔ Healthy Superfood : Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. ✔ Vegan & Allergy-Friendly : Gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free (unless you add topp...