National Inventors' Day 💡

Overview

National Inventors' Day, observed annually in the United States on February 11th, celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of inventors and their contributions to society. This day honors the spirit of innovation that drives progress and acknowledges the individuals whose inventions have shaped the world. The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Thomas Edison, who held over a thousand patents.

Observed each year on February 11, National Inventors' Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed February 11 as National Inventors' Day in 1983.

Thomas Edison, born on February 11, 1847, is one of the most prolific inventors in history, known for the practical incandescent light bulb, the phonograph, and the motion picture camera.

Quick facts

• DateFebruary 11
• TypeCultural / community observance
• Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

• Learn about a famous inventor or invention.
• Explore how a household item works.
• Read about patents and how ideas are protected.
• Discover modern inventions inspired by earlier ideas.
• Sketch an invention idea.
• Solve a small problem with a DIY solution.
• Encourage curiosity and experimentation.

Fun facts

• National Inventors' Day is observed on February 11, the birthday of Thomas Edison.

Sources and attribution

Inventors & Inventions (National Inventors Hall of Fame)

History of Invention (Encyclopaedia Britannica)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is National Inventors' Day?

It is observed on February 11 each year.

What is National Inventors' Day?

National Inventors' Day, observed annually in the United States on February 11, celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of inventors and their contributions to society. This day honors the spirit of innovation that drives progress and acknowledges the individuals whose inventions have shaped the world. The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Thomas Edison, who held over a thousand patents.

How do people celebrate National Inventors' Day?

Learn about inventors, explore how things work, or sketch a new invention idea.

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