April 12

Big Wind Day

Hold on to your hats, it's Big Wind Day! Celebrate the power of nature and enjoy the gusty winds with some fun outdoor activities.

Yearly Date

April 12

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to feel the power of Mother Nature on Big Wind Day, which falls on April 12! This unique holiday originated in 1934 when a strong gust of wind blew off the hat of a weatherman while he was broadcasting. Since then, this day has been observed as a way to appreciate and marvel at the incredible force of wind. It's also a reminder to stay safe during stormy weather and prepare for any potential damage caused by strong winds. So let's embrace the wind and enjoy its exhilarating effects on this exciting holiday!

Big Wind Day Timeline

1934

Origin of Big Wind Day

The celebration of this unique holiday began when a gust of wind blew off the hat of a weatherman while he was broadcasting.

1937

Dust Bowl Winds

In the 1930s, major dust storms, called "dust bowl," were caused by severe wind erosion, further highlighting the power of wind.

1940

Tacoma Bridge Collapse

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Washington collapsed due to a wind-induced vibrational phenomenon called "Aeroelastic flutter."

1973

Modern Wind Turbines Invented

The modern wind turbine design was introduced, harnessing wind power more efficiently and promoting sustainable energy.

1986

Fastest Recorded Wind Speed

The highest surface wind speed ever officially recorded was 231 mph (372 km/h) on the summit of Mount Washington, USA.

How to Celebrate Big Wind Day

1 Fly a kite

What better way to celebrate Big Wind Day than by flying a kite? Gather some friends or family members and head to a park or open field to fly kites and enjoy the windy weather.

2 Have a picnic

Take advantage of the windy weather and have a picnic outside. Pack some sandwiches, snacks, and beverages and find a spot with a great view to enjoy your meal and the wind.

3 Go sailing

If you live near a body of water, rent a sailboat or go on a guided sailing tour to fully experience the power of the wind. It's a great way to celebrate Big Wind Day and enjoy some time on the water.

4 Attend a wind-related event

Search for local events or festivals that celebrate wind energy, wind sports, or windy weather. Attend one of these events to learn more about the power of wind and how it impacts our lives.

5 Create wind-inspired art

Get creative and celebrate Big Wind Day by making wind-inspired art. Use materials like paper, fabric, or paint to create artwork that captures the movement and energy of the wind.

Why Big Wind Day is Important

It celebrates renewable energy sources

Big Wind Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate the power of wind as a renewable energy source. With growing concerns over climate change and the need for sustainable energy options, it's important to recognize and promote alternative forms of energy, like wind power.

It highlights the potential of wind energy

On Big Wind Day, we can reflect on how far wind energy has come and where it could go in the future. It's a chance to educate ourselves and others about the benefits of wind power - including reduced carbon emissions and lower production costs compared to traditional fossil fuels.

It supports local economies

Wind farms not only provide clean energy, but also bring economic benefits to nearby communities through job creation and increased revenue. On Big Wind Day, we can acknowledge these positive impacts and continue supporting the growth of renewable energy.