We’re heading into the last month of summer break. Not like you need any excuse to take advantage of every moment of sun and free time before school starts again, right? Well, just in case, here is a list of holidays in August that might provide you one more reason to celebrate… just about anything before the fall semester.

Switzerland’s National Day: Hot dogs and watermelon slices on July 4th? Been there, done that. Embrace your inner Swiss with this great opportunity to splurge on chocolate and cheese.
When? August 1st
How to celebrate? Eat chocolate, fireworks, eat more chocolate (and some cheese).

National Ice Cream Sandwich Day: Oh why yes, you do need an excuse to eat some more ice cream.
When? August 2nd
How to celebrate? This one’s pretty obvious – eat an ice cream sandwich! Or make one yourself (see “Caliber’s Guide to Ice Cream” ).

Wiggle Your Toes Day: I wonder how this became a recognized “holiday”?
When? August 3rd
How to celebrate? The best places to wiggle your toes are in some warm sand by the beach or in a pool or off of a boat dock.

Book Lover’s Day: Book reading is a great summer pastime. You can indulge in some light pleasant reading, or, if you want to keep your mind sharp, read something educational and informative. It is also a nice way to relax and take a nap (use your book as shade for your eyes!).
When? August 9th
How to celebrate? Read outside in a hammock or on lounge chair (you can do some tanning at the same time), or in bed before going to sleep, or on the lawn in the shade of a tree. See “Caliber’s Summer Reading List” for ideas.

National S’mores Day: Clearly, these tasty gooey treats deserve a national (though not made official by Congress… yet) day of their own.
When? August 10th
How to celebrate? Chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows – either roast them over a campfire on the beach, or try putting them in the microwave or oven.

National Presidential Joke Day: This day was founded when President Ronald Reagan made an (accidental) joke to the entire nation. During a voice test before his Saturday radio address, Reagan spoke into the microphone: “My fellow Americans, I am pleased to tell you I just signed legislation which outlaws Russia forever. The bombing begins in five minutes.” What he did not know was that the microphone was already live. Queue “National Presidential Joke Day”!
When? August 11
How to celebrate? Read up on past (and present) presidents to discover their presidential gaffes. There are plenty of entertaining stories about our national leaders, I’m sure.

National Play in the Sand Day: This day celebrates a typical summer activity that is not reserved for little kids.
When? August 11
How to celebrate? Build a sand castle. Bury a friend in the sand. Take a nap on the beach.

National Creamsicle Day: The creamsicle is a popsicle with an ice cream core. It’s yummy and a great summer treat!
When? August 14th
How to celebrate? Eat one. Make sure it doesn’t melt all over your hand, though!

National Sit Back and Relax Day: This is a summer-long activity for many of us, but if the gods of holidays insist…
When? August 15th
How to celebrate? Take a break from whatever summer activities you are doing and pull out a lounge chair, some music, and something to drink, and you’re ready to go.

International Homeless Animals Day: On the third Saturday of August, organizations from around the world join forces to shed light on the plight of our furry homeless friends.
When? August 18th
How to celebrate? Visit a local animal shelter (there are many in and around Berkeley) and adopt a pet.

National Aviation Day: This day honours the contributions and accomplishments of aviators everywhere. It marks the birthday of Orville Wright, who, with his brother Wilbur, was the first person to fly an airplane.
When? August 19th
How to celebrate? Learn more about the Wright brothers and other famous aviators. Or, go fly an airplane. Or, if you are near Berkeley, visit the Oakland Aviation Museum.

National Senior Citizens Day: Founded by President Reagan in 1988, this day is meant to recognize the elderly population.
When? August 21st
How to celebrate? Say a quick hello to your grandparents or any old folk in your life, and let them know you appreciate them.

Ride the Wind Day: This is also the first day of the fall semester. So, let the wind (or your class workload) carry you in whatever direction it takes you, and don’t fret it. This is time to be carefree and enjoy the day, before the stress of the school year!
When? August 23rd
How to celebrate? Fly a kite, hang glide, sky dive, go on a sailboat, let your hair fly in the wind.

So there, a few more reasons to celebrate and learn and appreciate various things before school begins. Enjoy these last few weeks of summer break, and make the most of it!

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