March 19: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1932, the world witnessed a marvel of modern engineering with the official opening of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
About March 19
For many, March 19 is a day of spiritual and cultural significance. In the Catholic and Anglican traditions, it marks the Feast of Saint Joseph. In Valencia, Spain, the atmosphere is electric during the week of the Falles festival, a vibrant celebration of tradition and local heritage. It is also a day that honors equality and literature, marked by the Day of Equality in Finland to commemorate the legacy of Minna Canth.
Beyond tradition, the date has been a turning point for global politics and infrastructure. From the monumental opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia to the significant shifts in American time zones in 1918, the day has consistently shaped how we navigate the world and how we organize our modern societies.
Holidays & Observances on March 19
- Christian Observances: Alkmund of Derby
- Christian Observances: Blessed Andrea Gallerani
- Christian Observances: Saint Joseph (Western Christianity; if this date falls on Sunday, the feast is moved to Monday March 20) Saint Joseph's Day (Roman Catholicism and Anglican Communion) related observances: Falles, celebrated on the week leading to March 19 (Valencia)
- Christian Observances: Blessed Marcel Callo
- Christian Observances: Blessed Sibyllina Biscossi
- Christian Observances: Earliest day on which Maundy Thursday can fall, while April 22 is the latest; celebrated on Thursday before Easter (Christianity)
- Minna Canth's Birthday and the Day of Equality (Finland)
- Kashubian Unity Day (Poland)
Fun & National Days on March 19
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Day — Celebrate like a hero with some delicious pizza and your favorite martial arts movies!
- National Chocolate Caramel Day — Indulge in the perfect sweet combination by treating yourself to some rich chocolate treats.
- National Backyard Day — Enjoy the simple pleasure of relaxing in your own outdoor space today.
- Absolutely Incredible Kid Day
- Certified Nurses Day
- Client's Day
- Companies That Care Day
- Let's Laugh Day
- National Poultry Day
- Oranges and Lemons Day
On This Day in History
- 1279 — The Song dynasty in China came to an end following a decisive Mongol victory at the Battle of Yamen.
- 1452 — Frederick III of Habsburg received his crown in Rome, marking the final time a Holy Roman Emperor was crowned by medieval tradition.
- 1649 — The English House of Commons took a radical step by passing legislation to abolish the House of Lords.
- 1831 — A massive heist occurred at New York's City Bank, marking the first documented bank robbery in United States history.
- 1865 — The Battle of Bentonville commenced during the American Civil War, leading to a Confederate retreat in North Carolina.
- 1918 — The United States Congress officially established standardized time zones and gave the green light for daylight saving time.
- 1932 — The massive steel structure known as the Sydney Harbour Bridge was officially opened to the public in Australia.
- 1944 — During the Second World War, German military forces moved in to occupy the nation of Hungary.
- 1945 — The USS Franklin suffered heavy damage from a Japanese dive bomber but managed to sail back to America.
- 1979 — C-SPAN began its historic run of broadcasting the daily activities and business of the United States House of Representatives.
- 2003 — President George W. Bush delivered a televised address to the American people to announce the invasion of Iraq.
Famous Birthdays on March 19
- 1813 — David Livingstone, The legendary Scottish missionary and famous explorer who mapped much of Africa.
- 1848 — Wyatt Earp, The iconic American lawman and figure of the Old West era.
- 1883 — Joseph Stilwell, An important American general during the era of the Second World War.
- 1891 — Earl Warren, The influential American jurist who served as the 14th Chief Justice of the United States.
- 1894 — Moms Mabley, The celebrated American comedian and singer known for her unique stage presence.
- 1900 — Frédéric Joliot-Curie, A distinguished French physicist and Nobel Prize winner for his scientific achievements.