October 21: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On October 21, 1638, a thunderbolt shattered a church in Dartmouth, England, during a packed service—yet remarkably, nearly everyone survived, making it one of the most astonishing weather events of the century.
About October 21
October 21 wears many hats, but pop culture fans know it best as Back to the Future Day, the date Marty McFly and Doc Brown traveled to in the beloved film sequel. It is also Apple Day in the United Kingdom, a celebration of orchards, heritage apple varieties, and autumn's most iconic fruit.
History buffs might note the Great Thunderstorm of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on October 21, 1638, when lightning struck a Dartmouth church during a sermon, toppling pinnacles and injuring many. Miraculously, most of the congregation survived, and the event became one of the earliest documented mega-lightning strikes. Centuries later, October 21 saw Thomas Edison's first commercially practical incandescent light bulb test in 1879—fitting for a day already marked by lightning and luminous moments.
Those born on this day fall under Libra, the sign of balance and harmony. Fittingly, October 21 has produced innovators, activists, and entertainers who have each tried to bring equilibrium to their corners of the world.
Fun & National Days on October 21
- "Back to the Future" Day — Revisit the classic film trilogy and appreciate how fiction imagined the future.
- Apple Day — Visit a local orchard or bake a pie with heritage apple varieties to celebrate autumn's favorite fruit.
- Babbling Day — Embrace the joy of aimless chatter with a friend—no meaningful conversation required.
- Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day — Support awareness by learning about post-mastectomy options and sharing stories of resilience.
- Celebration of the Mind Day — Solve a puzzle, play chess, or explore a new idea in honor of critical thinking and curiosity.
- Check Your Meds Day — Review prescriptions for expired bottles and confirm dosages with your pharmacist today.
- Count Your Buttons Day — Raid your button tin and tally your collection—yes, this is a real excuse to organize odd buttons.
- Garbanzo Bean Day — Whip up homemade hummus or toss chickpeas into a salad to honor this versatile legume.
- Global Dignity Day — Reflect on the inherent worth of every person and perform one act of kindness to uplift someone.
- Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day — Learn why iodized salt matters and how this simple nutrient protects brain development worldwide.