National Draw A Dinosaur Day
National Draw A Dinosaur Day is celebrated annually on January 30th. It was created in 2007 by an artist named Donovan Foss, who wanted to encourage people of all ages to express their creativity by drawing dinosaurs. The day is all about having fun, whether you’re a skilled artist or just doodling for enjoyment. People celebrate by sketching their favorite dinosaurs, sharing their drawings online, and learning more about these prehistoric creatures. Schools, museums, and art communities sometimes host activities to mark the occasion.
Croissant Day
National Croissant Day is celebrated annually on January 30th to honor the delicious, buttery, and flaky pastry that originated in Austria but became famous in France. The croissant, named after its crescent shape, is made with layers of dough and butter, creating its signature light and airy texture. It can be enjoyed plain or filled with chocolate, almond paste, cheese, or ham. People celebrate by baking croissants at home, visiting their favorite bakeries, or indulging in creative variations of this classic pastry.
Yodel For Your Neighbors Day
Yodel For Your Neighbors Day is observed on January 30th as a fun and lighthearted celebration of yodeling—a vocal technique that rapidly shifts between low and high pitches. While its origins trace back to the Alps of Europe, where Swiss, Austrian, and Bavarian herders used yodeling to communicate across mountains, the practice has since spread to folk and country music traditions worldwide. On this day, people are encouraged to surprise their neighbors with a friendly yodel, whether from a balcony, porch, or through an open window. It’s all about spreading joy, laughter, and perhaps even a little confusion!
January 30th has been a significant date throughout history. Here are some notable events that took place on this day.
Historical Events
1649 – Execution of King Charles I of England
King Charles I was executed for treason after the English Civil War, marking the temporary end of the monarchy and leading to Oliver Cromwell’s rule.
1835 – First assassination attempt on a U.S. president
Richard Lawrence attempted to assassinate President Andrew Jackson outside the U.S. Capitol, but both of his pistols misfired. Jackson reportedly attacked him with his cane.
1889 – Archduke Rudolf of Austria found dead
The heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, Archduke Rudolf, and his lover Baroness Mary Vetsera died in a suspected murder-suicide at Mayerling, an event that altered the future of the empire.
1933 – Adolf Hitler becomes Chancellor of Germany
The Nazi Party leader Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor, paving the way for World War II and the Holocaust.
1948 – Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi
Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated in New Delhi by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist. His death was a major turning point in India’s history.
1969 – The Beatles’ famous rooftop concert
The Beatles performed their final live concert on the rooftop of Apple Corps in London. The impromptu performance was cut short by police.
1972 – Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland
British soldiers shot unarmed civil rights protesters in Derry, Northern Ireland, killing 14. The event fueled tensions in the Irish conflict.
2003 – Space Shuttle Columbia disaster
The Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart upon reentry, killing all seven astronauts on board. The tragedy led to significant changes in NASA’s space program.
Notable Birthdays
Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882) – 32nd President of the United States, known for leading the country through the Great Depression and World War II.
Gene Hackman (1930) – Academy Award-winning actor known for The French Connection and Unforgiven.
Dick Cheney (1941) – Former U.S. Vice President (2001–2009) under George W. Bush.
Christian Bale (1974) – Academy Award-winning actor known for The Dark Knight trilogy and American Psycho.
Famous Deaths
1649 – King Charles I of England (b. 1600)
Executed for treason following the English Civil War, marking a rare instance of regicide in British history.
1948 – Mahatma Gandhi (b. 1869)
Leader of India’s nonviolent independence movement, assassinated in New Delhi by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist.
1889 – Archduke Rudolf of Austria (b. 1858)
Heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, found dead in a murder-suicide with his lover Baroness Mary Vetsera in what became known as the Mayerling Incident.
1948 – Orville Wright (b. 1871)
Co-inventor of the first successful powered airplane, the Wright Flyer, along with his brother Wilbur Wright.
2006 – Coretta Scott King (b. 1927)
Civil rights leader and wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she continued his legacy in advocating for racial and social justice.
2015 – Geraldine McEwan (b. 1932)
British actress known for her role as Miss Marple in the Agatha Christie TV adaptations.
2021 – Sophie (musician and producer) (b. 1986)
A pioneering Scottish musician and record producer known for avant-garde electronic music and contributions to hyperpop.