January 15: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On January 15, 2001, a free online encyclopedia launched that would democratize knowledge for billions—happy Wikipedia Day!
About January 15
January 15 is a day of remarkable firsts and enduring legacies. In 2001, Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger launched Wikipedia, transforming how humanity accesses information. What began as a free, collaborative project is now the world's largest reference work, available in hundreds of languages. The day also celebrates National Hat Day, a perfect excuse to don your favorite fedora, beanie, or beret.
Centuries earlier, in 1559, Elizabeth I was crowned Queen of England, beginning a 44-year reign that would define an era. Fast forward to 1929, when Martin Luther King Jr. was born—a man whose dream would reshape the American civil rights landscape. Tragically, January 15 also marks the day King was born, and the nation now honors his legacy on the third Monday of January.
From the first Super Bowl in 1967 to the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, this date has witnessed pivotal moments. Whether you're enjoying a fresh bagel, sipping kombucha, or squeezing fresh juice, take a moment to appreciate the history made on this day.
Fun & National Days on January 15
- Wikipedia Day — Celebrate by editing an article or getting lost in a wiki rabbit hole for an hour.
- National Hat Day — Top off your outfit with your most stylish, ridiculous, or beloved headwear today.
- National Bagel Day — Toast one up, pile on the cream cheese, and savor every chewy, carb-heavy bite.
- Get to Know Your Customers Day — Ask your favorite regulars about themselves—you might make a lifelong connection.
- Humanitarian Day — Do one small act of kindness today; even a smile can ripple outward in unexpected ways.
- National Booch Day — Crack open a bubbly, tangy bottle of kombucha and toast to your gut health.
- National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day — Grab some citrus and a press; nothing beats the zing of juice made with your own hands.
- National Strawberry Ice Cream Day — Treat yourself to a scoop of that pink, fruity sweetness—even if it's freezing outside.
- National Pothole Day (UK) — Mind the gap! Report that wheel-wrecking crater you've been dodging all month.