172 saved#1,211 of 6,224

Shark Week

Dive into the deep with Shark Week, unlocking the mysteries of the ocean's most fascinating predators! Adventure beckons, are you ready?

Monday

20–26

July 2026

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

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAnnounced annually by Discovery Channel

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYWildlife

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get set to plunge into the ocean's depths, because Shark Week kicks off on July 21! This annual, week-long event was created by Discovery Channel in 1988 to raise awareness and respect for sharks, nature's captivating and often misunderstood sea creatures. Shark Week has since evolved into the biggest shark party in the world, packed with new breakthroughs, incredible shark footage, and of course, the much-awaited shark cage dives. So strap on your goggles, flip on your fins, and prepare to deep-dive into the world of these magnificent marine predators. Adventure beckons, are you ready to dive into the thrill of Shark Week?

TIMELINE

Shark Week Timeline

Inception of Shark Week

Discovery Channel introduced Shark Week as a way to raise awareness about sharks and their importance in the marine ecosystem.

First Shark Week Special

Discovery channel aired the first Shark Week special, "Sharks of the Atlantic," initiating a tradition of themed programming.

"Air Jaws" Debuts

"Air Jaws", a show documenting the breaching behaviour of Great White sharks became an instant hit.

Record-Breaking Viewership

Shark Week 2010 attracted over 30 million viewers, making it the highest-rated Shark Week in history at that time.

Controversial "Megalodon" Feature

Discovery Channel received criticism for airing "Megalodon: The Monster Shark Lives", a controversial docu-fiction about the existence of the extinct giant shark.

Shark Week Celebrates 30 Years

Shark Week celebrated its 30th anniversary, becoming the longest-running cable television programming event in history.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Shark Week

Throw a shark-themed party

Get dive deep into the spirit of Shark Week with a themed party. Serve shark-shaped cookies, make blue ocean cocktails, and bring out the inflatable shark pool toys.

PAINT

Paint shark inspired art

Bring out the paints and brushes and get to work on some shark-inspired masterpieces. Anything from painting on a canvas to customizing shirts with shark pictures will add to your festivities.

HOST

Host a shark movie marathon

You'd be surprised how many movies have revolved around sharks. From the iconic 'Jaws' to 'The Meg,' there's a shark movie for every mood and taste.

INITIATE

Initiate a neighborhood cleanup

Sharks and all marine life suffer from ocean pollution. Organize a beach or neighborhood cleanup in honor of Shark Week. This is a fantastic way to both celebrate and make a meaningful impact on local ecology.

DONATE

Donate to a shark conservation organization

In the spirit of respecting and protecting these amazing creatures, consider donating to an organization involved in shark conservation. This can be done individually or collectively as part of your shark-themed party, spreading the word and helping sustain these essential marine creatures for future generations.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Shark Week

Facilitates Conservation Efforts

Shark Week allows individuals to contribute to eco-friendly efforts of conservation organizations. Whether it's through spreading awareness, partaking in cleanup activities or even making donations to conservation groups, it promotes active involvement in preserving these majestic sea creatures.

Increases Awareness and Appreciation for Sharks

Shark Week was designed to raise awareness of these amazing creatures. It's a week where people get to appreciate sharks, learn about their role in marine ecosystems, and better understand the need for their conservation. It's a fantastic tool for education and appreciation of ocean life.

Provides Fun and Exciting Activities

The thrill of Shark Week isn't just limited to watching shows on the Discovery Channel. It's also about engaging in shark-themed activities such as throwing a party, painting shark-inspired art, watching shark movies, and even participating in eco-friendly activities like neighborhood cleanups.

Related holidays

Kiss a Shark Week

Dare to dive deep during Kiss a Shark Week! Learn, appreciate, and help conserve these magnificent marine creatures. No actual kissing required!

Shark Awareness Day

Join us in celebrating Shark Awareness Day and help raise awareness of the threats facing sharks and how you can help protect them!

National Marine week

Dive into the excitement of National Marine Week and discover the wonders of our oceans with fun events, educational activities, and conservation efforts!

11Read

TUE

Jun 2026