December 21: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
On this day in 1968, the Apollo 8 mission launched humanity toward the moon, marking our first attempt to reach another celestial body.
Quick Facts for December 21
- Zodiac sign: Sagittarius
- Day of year: 355
About December 21
December 21 serves as a bridge between ancient mysticism and modern exploration. While many in Mesoamerica celebrated the conclusion of a massive 5,126-year cycle in the Mayan Long Count in 2012, history has also seen us reach for the stars. In 1968, the launch of Apollo 8 forever changed our perspective of the cosmos by setting a course for lunar orbit.
The day also carries heavy historical weight, from the founding of the Plymouth Colony in 1620 to the significant political shifts of the 20th century. Whether it is observing the birth of cultural icons or remembering the solemnity of the Pan Am Flight 103 disaster, this date offers a profound look at the human experience across centuries.
Holidays & Observances on December 21
- Armed Forces Day (Philippines)
- Forefathers' Day (Plymouth, Massachusetts)
- São Tomé Day (São Tomé and Príncipe)
Fun & National Days on December 21
- Crossword Puzzle Day — Grab a pen and test your wits with a challenging grid today!
- Don't Make Your Bed Day — Enjoy a slow morning by leaving your blankets in a messy heap.
- National French Fried Shrimp Day — Treat yourself to some crispy, golden seafood snacks.
- National Hamburger Day — Fire up the grill and celebrate with a juicy burger.
- National Flashlight Day — Check your batteries and enjoy some light in the dark.
- Anne and Samantha Day
- Humbug Day
- International Dalek Remembrance Day
- National Coquito Day
On This Day in History
- 69 — Following a chaotic period of leadership, the Roman Senate officially recognized Vespasian as the new emperor.
- 1237 — The city of Ryazan suffered a devastating attack when it was overtaken by the Mongol forces of Batu Khan.
- 1620 — The Mayflower Pilgrims, led by William Bradford, arrived near the site now known as Plymouth Rock.
- 1844 — The cooperative movement was sparked in England when the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers opened for business.
- 1872 — Captain George Nares departed from Portsmouth aboard the HMS Challenger to begin a historic scientific expedition.
- 1910 — A tragic underground blast at the Hulton Bank Colliery in England claimed the lives of 344 miners.
- 1946 — A massive 8.1 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck Nankaido, Japan, causing widespread destruction.
- 1968 — Humanity entered a new era as Apollo 8 launched from Florida, heading toward the moon.
- 1988 — The deadliest aviation tragedy on British soil occurred when a bomb exploded on Pan Am Flight 103.
- 1991 — The Alma-Ata Protocol was signed, creating the Commonwealth of Independent States as the Soviet Union dissolved.
- 2012 — Festivals across Mesoamerica marked the end of the 13th b'ak'tun cycle in the Mayan Long Count calendar.
- 2020 — Jupiter and Saturn reached a rare great conjunction, appearing extremely close in the night sky.
Famous Birthdays on December 21
- 1401 — Masaccio, A pioneer of Italian painting who helped shape the early Renaissance style.
- 1804 — Benjamin Disraeli, A prominent English lawyer who rose to serve as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
- 1937 — Jane Fonda, A celebrated American actress and dedicated political activist.
- 1940 — Frank Zappa, An influential American musician known for his unique songwriting and guitar skills.
- 1948 — Samuel L. Jackson, An iconic American actor recognized for his powerful presence on the silver screen.
- 1954 — Chris Evert, A legendary American athlete who dominated the world of professional tennis.
- 1977 — Emmanuel Macron, The influential statesman serving as the President of France.