Presidential Joke Day
This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.
Overview
Presidential Joke Day, observed annually on August 11th, is an unofficial American holiday celebrating the humor, wit, and often self-deprecating jokes shared by U.S. presidents throughout history. It commemorates the day in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan, while testing a microphone for a radio address, jokingly announced, "My fellow Americans, I'm pleased to tell you today that I've signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We start bombing in five minutes." This lighthearted, unbroadcast moment sparked both amusement and minor controversy, reminding the public that even leaders in high office possess a human side capable of humor.
Observed each year on August 11, Presidential Joke Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
The holiday originated from an unbroadcast microphone test by Ronald Reagan in 1984, where he joked about bombing Russia.
Abraham Lincoln was renowned for using humor and storytelling, often to explain complex issues or relieve stress during the Civil War.
Quick facts
- DateAugust 11
- TypeCultural / community observance
- Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams
Also on this date
Ways to celebrate
- Write a note or journal entry on why Presidential Joke Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
- Bring Presidential Joke Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
- Add Presidential Joke Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
- Presidential Joke Day lands on August 11 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
- Share one fast fact about Presidential Joke Day: The holiday originated from an unbroadcast microphone test by Ronald Reagan in 1984, where he joked about bombing Russia.
Fun facts
- The holiday originated from an unbroadcast microphone test by Ronald Reagan in 1984, where he joked about bombing Russia.
- Abraham Lincoln was renowned for using humor and storytelling, often to explain complex issues or relieve stress during the Civil War.
- Many presidents, including John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama, frequently used self-deprecating humor to connect with the public and defuse tension.
Sources and attribution
Source not provided.
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FAQ
- When is Presidential Joke Day?
- It is observed on August 11 each year.
- What is Presidential Joke Day?
- Presidential Joke Day, observed annually on August 11th, is an unofficial American holiday celebrating the humor, wit, and often self-deprecating jokes shared by U.S. presidents throughout history. It commemorates the day in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan, while testing a microphone for a radio address, jokingly announced, "My fellow Americans, I'm pleased to tell you today that I've signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We start bombing in five minutes." This lighthearted, unbroadcast moment sparked both amusement and minor controversy, reminding the public that even leaders in high office possess a human side capable of humor.
- How do people celebrate Presidential Joke Day?
- Write a note or journal entry on why Presidential Joke Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
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