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Sally Ride Day

On Sally Ride Day, we honor the first American woman in space and her groundbreaking achievements that continue to inspire young girls around the world.

Wednesday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 26

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYFamous People

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On May 26, we celebrate the achievements and legacy of an incredible trailblazer on Sally Ride Day. This day honors the first American woman to fly in space, Dr. Sally Ride, who made history on June 18, 1983 when she boarded the Space Shuttle Challenger as a mission specialist. Not only was she a pioneer in space exploration, but she also worked tirelessly to promote education and careers in science and technology for young girls. So let's take this day to remember her inspiring life and continue to encourage future generations to reach for the stars!

TIMELINE

Sally Ride Day Timeline

Birth of Sally Ride

Sally Ride was born on May 26, 1951, in Los Angeles, California.

NASA Acceptance

Ride was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in 1978, where she was one of six women selected out of 8,000 applicants.

Historic Space Flight

On June 18, 1983, Sally Ride became the first American woman to fly to space on the Space Shuttle Challenger.

Sally Ride Science

Ride co-founded Sally Ride Science, an organization promoting science education and career interests in young girls and boys.

Passing of Sally Ride

Sally Ride passed away on July 23, 2012, but left behind a legacy of inspiration and advocacy for STEM education.

First Sally Ride Day

The first commemoration of Sally Ride Day took place, honoring the life and achievements of the inspiring astronaut.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Sally Ride Day

Host a stargazing party

Sally Ride was not only an astronaut, but also an accomplished physicist and astronomer. Celebrate her legacy by hosting a stargazing party and learning about the wonders of the universe.

READ

Read a book about Sally Ride

There are many books written about Sally Ride that provide insight into her life and accomplishments. Take the time to learn more about this inspiring woman on her special day.

WATCH

Watch a documentary about Sally Ride

There are several documentaries available that highlight Sally Ride's incredible journey as the first American woman in space. Gather some friends or family and watch one together to celebrate her achievements.

VISIT

Visit a science museum or planetarium

Sally Ride was a pioneer in the field of science and space exploration. Honor her memory by visiting a science museum or planetarium and learning more about the wonders of the universe.

DONATE

Donate to a STEM education program

In honor of Sally Ride's passion for science and education, consider donating to a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education program. This will help empower future generations to follow in her footsteps.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Sally Ride Day

She showed us that the sky is truly the limit

Sally Ride's courage and determination proved that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. As we celebrate Sally Ride Day, we are reminded to reach for our dreams and never give up on ourselves - because like her, we can soar to great heights.

She was a trailblazer for women in STEM

Sally Ride broke barriers as the first American woman in space and inspired young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Her accomplishments have paved the way for future generations of female scientists and astronauts.

She promoted education and advocacy

After leaving NASA, Sally Ride dedicated her life to promoting education and advocating for science literacy. She co-founded Sally Ride Science, an educational company aimed at inspiring young people - especially girls - to pursue STEM careers.