February 15: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1946, the world entered the digital age with the formal dedication of the ENIAC, the first electronic general-purpose computer.
Quick Facts for February 15
- Zodiac sign: Aquarius
- Day of year: 46
About February 15
February 15 serves as a remarkable intersection of scientific progress and cultural identity. While the digital revolution found its footing with the unveiling of the ENIAC in Philadelphia, the day also marks a major shift in Canadian history. In 1965, the nation officially embraced the iconic maple leaf as its national flag, replacing the older Red Ensign and giving Canada its modern visual identity.
Beyond technology and symbols, the day carries deep historical weight. It is a day of remembrance in Russia for International Duties Memorial Day and holds spiritual significance for Mahayana Buddhists observing Parinirvana Day. Whether celebrating the intellectual legacy of thinkers like Galileo or reflecting on the complex shifts of global politics, February 15 offers a window into the forces that shape our modern world.
Holidays & Observances on February 15
- International Duties Memorial Day (Russia, regional)
- John Frum Day (Vanuatu)
- Liberation Day (Afghanistan)
- National Flag of Canada Day (Canada)
- Parinirvana Day, also celebrated on February 8. (Mahayana Buddhism)
- Statehood Day (Serbia), also observed by the Republic of Srpska since 2025.
- Susan B. Anthony Day (Florida, United States)
- The ENIAC Day (Philadelphia, United States)
Fun & National Days on February 15
- National Gumdrop Day — Celebrate this sweet occasion by treating yourself to some colorful, sugary gumdrops.
- National Hippo Day — Show some love to these massive river dwellers by learning a fun new hippo fact.
- Annoy Squidward Day — Channel your inner SpongeBob and playfully tease your friends today.
- National Clementine Day — Enjoy the bright, citrusy zest of a fresh clementine to brighten your afternoon.
- National I Want Butterscotch Day
- Remember the Maine Day
- Singles Awareness Day
- St. Skeletor's Day
On This Day in History
- 438 — Theodosius II issued the legal code known as the Codex Theodosianus, a monumental collection of Roman laws.
- 1493 — While sailing on the Niña, Christopher Columbus penned a letter detailing his findings and unique discoveries in the Americas.
- 1764 — Spanish Louisiana saw the founding of the city of St. Louis, which is located in present-day Missouri.
- 1852 — The Helsinki Cathedral, originally named St. Nicholas' Church, was officially opened in Finland.
- 1879 — President Rutherford B. Hayes signed legislation that permitted women to serve as attorneys before the U.S. Supreme Court.
- 1898 — The explosion and sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor led to an outbreak of war between America and Spain.
- 1925 — The historic serum run to Nome reached its destination in Alaska as the second supply of life-saving medicine arrived.
- 1942 — Following a massive Japanese offensive, British-led forces surrendered in Singapore, resulting in tens of thousands of prisoners.
- 1946 — The ENIAC, recognized as the first general-purpose electronic computer, was officially dedicated in Philadelphia.
- 1949 — Archaeologists began excavating Cave 1 at Qumran, eventually leading to the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
- 1965 — Canada transitioned to its modern national symbol by officially adopting the maple leaf flag.
- 2001 — The scientific community achieved a breakthrough with the publication of the first complete draft of the human genome.
Famous Birthdays on February 15
- 1564 — Galileo Galilei, The legendary Italian astronomer and mathematician who fundamentally changed our understanding of the cosmos.
- 1748 — Jeremy Bentham, A highly influential English philosopher and jurist known for his work in legal theory.
- 1812 — Charles Lewis Tiffany, The American entrepreneur who established the world-renowned luxury brand Tiffany & Co.
- 1820 — Susan B. Anthony, A pioneering American activist who dedicated her life to the cause of women's suffrage.
- 1874 — Ernest Shackleton, The famed Anglo-Irish explorer known for his heroic leadership during Antarctic expeditions.
- 1954 — Matt Groening, The acclaimed American creator behind some of the most iconic animated series in television history.