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National Meteor Watch Day

Get ready to gaze at the stars and witness a spectacular show on National Meteor Watch Day! Don't miss this chance to make a wish upon shooting stars.

Tuesday

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 30

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYNature

SUBCATEGORYSky & Weather

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to gaze at the night sky and witness a spectacular display of shooting stars on National Meteor Watch Day, which falls on June 30! This day was created to celebrate and appreciate the beauty of meteors, also known as "shooting stars". The origins of this holiday can be traced back to ancient Greece, where people believed that meteors were messages from the gods. Today, it's a great opportunity to gather with friends and family and make wishes upon these celestial wonders. So grab a blanket, some snacks, and get ready to marvel at the wonders of the universe!

TIMELINE

National Meteor Watch Day Timeline

First Meteor Shower Recording

Scientist Andrew Ellicott Douglass recorded the first meteor shower in North America, laying the groundwork for future observations of meteoric activity.

Leonids Meteor Shower

The Leonids meteor shower was accurately predicted for the first time, underscoring the growing understanding of these celestial events.

Draconids Meteor Storm

One of the most intense meteor storms in human history took place on this day, with thousands of meteors observed per hour at its peak.

Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS)

NASA's IRAS satellite detected a disc around the star Vega, which was later found to contain numerous meteoroids, increasing our understanding of how they form.

Leonid Multi-Year Storms

A series of spectacular Leonid meteor storms occurred between 1998 and 2002, offering scientists unprecedented opportunities for study.

Chelyabinsk Meteor

A meteor exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia, releasing more energy than a nuclear bomb and drawing international attention to the potential dangers of meteors.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Meteor Watch Day

Host a meteor-themed party

Invite your friends over for a meteor-themed party, complete with starry decorations and snacks named after celestial bodies.

Go stargazing

Find a spot away from city lights and spend the evening watching the stars and looking for meteors.

LEARN

Learn about meteors

Take some time to research and learn about different types of meteors, their origins, and how they impact our planet.

CREATE

Create your own meteor shower

Use string lights or glow sticks to create a DIY meteor shower in your backyard. You can even make a wish on each "falling star".

ATTEND

Attend a meteor watch event

Check for local events or gatherings where you can join others in watching for meteors. It's a great way to meet new people and share your love for space.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Meteor Watch Day

It raises awareness for space exploration and science

National Meteor Watch Day reminds us of the importance of studying and understanding the phenomena happening in our solar system. By celebrating this holiday, we also show our support for advancements in space exploration and scientific research.

It's a chance to witness a spectacular natural event

National Meteor Watch Day is the perfect opportunity to view meteor showers and shooting stars. These celestial events are truly breathtaking and can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So mark your calendars and make sure to go outside on this special day!

It's a great excuse for a fun outdoor activity

National Meteor Watch Day gives us a reason to spend some time outside, gazing at the night sky with friends or family. It's a great way to bond and also learn more about astronomy and the wonders of our universe.

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