September 20: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
In 1519, Ferdinand Magellan embarked on a voyage that would eventually result in the first successful circumnavigation of our planet.
Quick Facts for September 20
- Zodiac sign: Virgo
- Day of year: 263
About September 20
September 20 has long been a day of monumental shifts, ranging from global exploration to breaking social barriers. In 1519, the world grew significantly smaller when Ferdinand Magellan set sail on his historic expedition. Centuries later, the spirit of competition and equality took center stage in 1973, when tennis legend Billie Jean King triumphed in the famous 'Battle of the Sexes' match against Bobby Riggs.
Beyond these massive milestones, the day offers a tapestry of cultural observances. From celebrating the rights of the youth in Thailand to recognizing the labor of oil workers in Azerbaijan, the date touches on various aspects of human society. Whether it is through the lens of political change or the simple joy of a national food holiday, September 20 remains a cornerstone of diverse human experience.
Holidays & Observances on September 20
- Constitution Day (Nepal)
- Independence Day of South Ossetia (not fully recognized)
- National Youth Day (Thailand)
- Oil Workers' Day (Azerbaijan)
- Universal Children's Day (Germany)
Fun & National Days on September 20
- National Pepperoni Pizza Day — Grab a hot slice and enjoy your favorite cheesy topping today!
- National Fried Rice Day — Whip up a delicious pan of savory fried rice for lunch.
- National Brunch Day — Celebrate with a late morning feast of eggs and pancakes.
- National String Cheese Day — Peel and snack on some delicious string cheese today.
- National Back to Church Sunday
- National Care for Kids Day
- National Gibberish Day
- National LGBTQ Veteran's Day
- National Neighborhood Day
- National Punch Day
On This Day in History
- 1066 — Harald Hardrada secured a victory over Earls Morcar and Edwin during the Battle of Fulford.
- 1187 — The Siege of Jerusalem was initiated by the legendary leader Saladin.
- 1498 — A massive tsunami in the Nankai region destroyed the structure housing the Great Buddha at Kōtoku-in.
- 1519 — Ferdinand Magellan departed from Sanlúcar de Barrameda, beginning his journey to circle the globe.
- 1697 — The Nine Years' War officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Ryswick.
- 1792 — French forces successfully halted an invading allied army at the Battle of Valmy.
- 1870 — The unification of Italy reached a milestone as the Bersaglieri corps entered Rome.
- 1893 — The first American-made gasoline automobile underwent road testing by Charles and his brother Duryea.
- 1946 — The inaugural Cannes Film Festival finally took place after being delayed by the war.
- 1967 — In Scotland, the launch of the Cunard Liner Queen Elizabeth 2 took place at Clydebank.
- 1973 — Billie Jean King won her historic tennis match against Bobby Riggs in Houston.
- 2011 — The United States military officially ended its 'don't ask, don't tell' policy for service members.
Famous Birthdays on September 20
- 1878 — Upton Sinclair, The influential American essayist and novelist known for his social critiques.
- 1910 — Dorothy Vaughan, The brilliant American mathematician who played a key role at NASA.
- 1917 — Red Auerbach, The legendary American basketball coach and player.
- 1934 — Sophia Loren, The legendary and world-renowned Italian cinema icon.
- 1948 — George R. R. Martin, The celebrated American author famous for his epic fantasy series.
- 1951 — Guy Lafleur, The iconic Canadian professional ice hockey player.