Buzz
“Do you recall the 21st night of September?” Earth, Wind & Fire first posed this question in 1978. Over the years—thanks in large part to writer and comedian Demi Adejuyigbe’s viral tributes to the song and the date—September 21st has evolved into what many consider the internet’s unofficial holiday, often referred to as “the most significant day of the year.”
To celebrate this special day, here are 12 notable events that have taken place on September 21st. By the end, you’ll not only remember the 21st night of September—you’ll understand why it’s worth celebrating.
The final day of summer
September 21 often signifies the final day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, as the autumnal equinox typically occurs on September 22 (as it will in 2024).
The Ganesha Milk Miracle
Known as the “Ganesha Milk Miracle,” India experienced an extraordinary event on September 21, 1995, when statues of the elephant god Ganesha seemingly drank milk offered by devotees. Millions flocked to temples nationwide to witness this phenomenon, which ended as abruptly as it began. During this time, milk prices surged by four times.
Belize Independence Day
Following years of diplomatic negotiations, Belize gained independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981.
H.G. Wells’s birthday
H.G. Wells entered the world on September 21, 1866. His literary contributions later inspired and were cited by author Stephen King, who shares the same birthdate, born 81 years after Wells.
Mad Men revolutionized basic cable television
In 2008, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences validated public sentiment by awarding Mad Men the title of Outstanding Drama Series, marking AMC as the first basic cable network to achieve this honor. Additionally, Bryan Cranston secured his first Emmy (out of a record-breaking four) for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role in Breaking Bad.
Benedict Arnold turned traitor
General Benedict Arnold carried out the deed that would forever link his name to treachery and disloyalty. In 1780, he met with British Major John Andre, proposing to surrender his command of West Point in return for financial gain and a prominent position in the British military.
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit was released
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit—which would ultimately sell over 100 million copies, be translated into more than 50 languages, and, most notably, introduce the world to the idea of second breakfast—was first published in 1937. To honor this, Tolkien enthusiasts worldwide celebrate Hobbit Day on September 22 (often with second breakfast and other festivities).
Sandra Day O’Connor became the first female Supreme Court justice
On September 21, 1981, Sandra Day O’Connor was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate with a 99–0 vote, making her the first woman to serve as a U.S. Supreme Court justice. She was officially sworn in on September 25, just four days later.
Jimi Hendrix’s “All Along the Watchtower” was first released
In 1968, Jimi Hendrix introduced his rendition of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.” Although it was the first cover of the song, it quickly became the most iconic version.
NASA’s Galileo mission came to an end
After becoming the first spacecraft to explore an asteroid (actually, two) and successfully fulfilling its mission to study Jupiter and its moons, NASA ended the Galileo mission in 2003. To prevent an accidental collision between Galileo and Jupiter’s moon Europa—and, in a poetic gesture, to safeguard its discovery of a potential ocean beneath Europa’s icy surface—Galileo was directed into Jupiter’s atmosphere.
Perry Mason premiered on television
Perry Mason debuted in 1957, introducing America to the first weekly, hourlong primetime series centered on a single character. This laid the groundwork for countless courtroom dramas that followed (including all the Law & Orders and more), featuring a lawyer with an exceptionally impressive win rate (even by fictional standards).
National Pecan Cookie Day
September 21 is celebrated as National Pecan Cookie Day, coinciding with the time when pecan trees are ready for harvest. But honestly, who needs a reason to enjoy a delicious pecan cookie?
