Walk Around Things Day
National Walk Around Things Day is observed annually on April 4. This lighthearted holiday encourages individuals to both literally and figuratively “walk around things,” promoting mindfulness, creativity, and a fresh perspective on problem-solving. While the exact origins of National Walk Around Things Day are unclear, the day serves as a reminder to approach obstacles—be they physical or metaphorical—with thoughtfulness and flexibility. Literally, it might involve taking a longer route to avoid a puddle or obstacle. Figuratively, it suggests sidestepping unnecessary conflicts or challenges when a direct approach isn’t the most constructive.
Picky Eaters Day
National Picky Eaters Day is celebrated annually on April 4. Established in 2025 by SeaPak, this lighthearted holiday acknowledges the challenges and small victories associated with picky eating, particularly among children. It’s a day for parents and caregivers to celebrate when a child tries a new food or expands their palate, even slightly. SeaPak, a prominent frozen seafood brand, initiated National Picky Eaters Day to highlight the common struggles parents face during mealtimes. According to a survey conducted by SeaPak, the average American parent spends approximately 67 hours annually negotiating with their picky eaters. The holiday aims to encourage food exploration and make mealtimes more enjoyable for families.
Carrot Day
International Carrot Day is celebrated annually on April 4. Established in 2003 by a group of carrot enthusiasts in Sweden, this day aims to honor the versatility and nutritional benefits of carrots. Carrots have a rich history, originating in Central Asia around 1000 A.D. as a medicinal plant. They were later cultivated for consumption, with orange carrots becoming popular in the 17th century, possibly to honor William of Orange. During World War II, the British government promoted the idea that eating carrots enhanced night vision to explain the success of their pilots, although this was partly to conceal advancements in radar technology.
April 4th has seen a variety of significant historical events across different eras and fields.
Historical Events
1886 – Haymarket Affair
A peaceful labor rally in Chicago’s Haymarket Square turned violent when a bomb was thrown at the police, resulting in the deaths of seven officers and at least four civilians. This incident became a symbol of the labor movement’s struggle for workers’ rights.
1904 – U.S. Takes Over Panama Canal Construction
The United States formally assumed control of the Panama Canal construction project from France. This marked the beginning of the canal’s completion, which was finished in 1914.
1919 – May Fourth Movement in China
Over 4,000 students protested in Beijing against the Treaty of Versailles, which granted Japan control over territories in China. This movement sparked a nationwide surge in Chinese nationalism and laid the groundwork for the rise of the Chinese Communist Party.
1942 – Battle of the Coral Sea
The Battle of the Coral Sea commenced, marking the first major naval battle where aircraft carriers engaged each other. This crucial World War II confrontation halted Japan’s advance toward Australia and was a turning point in the Pacific theater.
1970 – Kent State Shootings
During an anti-Vietnam War protest at Kent State University in Ohio, members of the Ohio National Guard opened fire on unarmed students, resulting in four deaths and nine injuries. This incident galvanized public opposition to the war and became a pivotal moment in U.S. protest history.
1959 – First Grammy Awards
The inaugural Grammy Awards ceremony was held to honor outstanding achievements in the music industry. Notable winners included Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and the Kingston Trio.
1994 – Oslo Accords Signed
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat signed a peace agreement in Washington, D.C., aimed at achieving Palestinian self-rule in Gaza and Jericho. This accord was a significant step toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
2011 – Osama bin Laden’s Death
U.S. Navy SEALs killed al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in a raid on his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. Bin Laden was responsible for orchestrating the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Famous Birthdays
Horace Mann (1796–1859) – American educator and politician, known as the “Father of American Public Education.”
Thomas Huxley (1825–1895) – English biologist and advocate of Darwinism.
Audrey Hepburn (1929–1993) – Iconic Belgian-British actress known for classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Roman Holiday.
Katherine Jackson (1930–) – American matriarch of the Jackson family.
Randy Travis (1959–) – American country singer and songwriter, influential in the 1980s and 1990s.
Jackie Jackson (1951–) – American singer and member of the Jackson 5.
Will Arnett (1970–) – Canadian actor and producer, celebrated for roles in Arrested Development and BoJack Horseman.
Lance Bass (1979–) – American pop singer and member of *NSYNC.
Richard Jenkins (1947–) – American actor known for The Shape of Water and Step Brothers.
Ruth Negga (1982–) – Ethiopian-Irish actress acclaimed for Loving and Passing.
Alex Lawther (1995–) – English actor recognized for The End of the F**ing World* and Black Mirror.
Rory McIlroy (1989–) – Northern Irish professional golfer, multiple major championship winner.
PrestonPlayz (1994–) – American YouTube star known for gaming content.
Kurtis Conner (1994–) – Canadian comedian and YouTuber.
Avia Butler (2004–) – American YouTuber and social media personality.
Anthony Trujillo (1997–) – American YouTuber and social media influencer.
Kenan Yıldız (2005–) – Turkish professional footballer.
James Harrison (1978–) – American former NFL linebacker.
Dawn Staley (1970–) – American basketball coach and former player.
Rex Orange County (1998–) – English singer-songwriter blending indie pop and R&B.
Notable Deaths
Tipu Sultan (1750–1799) – Sultan of Mysore and a prominent figure in Indian history, known for his resistance against British colonization.
Aimé Bonpland (1773–1858) – French botanist and explorer, recognized for his scientific expeditions in South America.
Moe Howard (1897–1975) – American actor and comedian, best known as a founding member of the Three Stooges.
Josip Broz Tito (1892–1980) – Yugoslav revolutionary and statesman, serving as the Prime Minister and later President of Yugoslavia.
Adam Yauch (1964–2012) – American rapper and filmmaker, a founding member of the Beastie Boys.
Legacy.com
Dom DeLuise (1933–2009) – American actor, comedian, and director, known for his roles in comedy films.
Don Shula (1930–2020) – American football coach, renowned for his tenure with the Miami Dolphins and leading them to two Super Bowl victories.
Nick Kamen (1962–2021) – English model and singer, famous for his 1986 Levi’s jeans commercial and subsequent music career.
Frank Stella (1936–2024) – American painter and printmaker, a leading figure in the visual art movement known as minimalism.
