I Love Litigating Lawyers Day, Limbra Noastra, Hari Raya Puasa, more

August 31st, 2011, is I Love Litigating Lawyers Day, Limbra Noastra, Hari Raya Puasa, Independence Day (Malaysia), Independence Day (Kyrgzstan), and National Eat Outside Day.

You might have trouble drumming up enthusiasm for this holiday, unless you've won a big lawsuit or you're married to an attorney, but today is I Love Litigating Lawyers Day. They are a necessary component of the judicial system.

Moldova celebrates Limbra Noastra, honoring their national language, traditons, and freedoms. "Limbra Noastra" means "our tongue" or "our language."

Malaysia celebrates Hari Raya Puasa on August 31st this year, marking the end of Ramadan. "Hari Raya" means "day of celebration."

Malaysia also celebrates Independence Day, marking independence from Britain since 1957.

Kyrgyzstan observes Independence Day today, celebrating independence since 1991.

National Eat Outside Day is a great idea if it's not 100-plus degrees where you are. Enjoy!

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Frankenstein Day, Holistic Pet Day, Eid-ul-Fitr, more

August 30th, 2011, is National Frankenstein Day, National Holistic Pet Day, Victory Day (Turkey), Constitution Day (Kazakhstan), Santa Rosa of Lima, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Toasted Marshmallow Day.

National Frankenstein Day commemorates the birth date of Mary Shelly, who wrote Frankenstein at the tender age of eighteen.

National Holistic Pet Day is a time to think about the health of your pets from a prevention point of view. Pets, like people, benefit from proper diet and adequate exercise.

Turkey observes Victory Day on this date, remembering their victory over Greek invaders in 1922.

Kazakhstan celebrates Constitution Day on August 30th. Their current constitution was ratified in 1995.

Peru rmembers Santa Rosa of Lima today as a feast day. Some celebrants drop good will letters into a hollow where St. Rose tossed the key of her belt in penance.

Eid-ul-Fitr, the Feast of Fast-Breaking, marks the end of Ramadan. Eid-ul-Fitr comes on the 1st day of the 10th month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Toasted Marshmallow Day is here, encouraging us to spend time together, whether around a campfire or a kitchen stove. The only matter to debate is golden vs. blackened.

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According to Hoyle Day; National More Herbs, Less Salt Day; more

August 29th, 2011, is According to Hoyle Day; International Day Against Nuclear Tests; National More Herbs, Less Salt Day; and National Lemon Juice Day.

Wanna play cards? Edmund Hoyle invented the 52-card deck and wrote rules of play. Check your bookstore for rules according to Hoyle, then have a fun According to Hoyle Day.

August 29th is International Day Against Nuclear Tests, sponsored by the United Nations. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes: "Every day, more and more people are viewing both nuclear tests and nuclear weapons as dangerous relics of the Cold War, long overdue for permanent retirement."

National More Herbs, Less Salt Day is an inspirational holiday for all. Salt adds flavor, but too much salt has negative  health consequences. Herbs add flavor and offer health benefits. You do the math.

Along with herbs, citrus adds flavor, nutritional benefits, and an acidic zing to food Experiment with flavor on National Lemon Juice Day.

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Crackers over the Keyboard Day, Dream Day Quest and Jubilee, Mariamoba, more

August 28th, 2011, is Crackers over the Keyboard Day, Race Your Mouse around the Icons Day, Dream Day Quest and Jubilee, National Bow Tie Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Mariamoba, National Heroes' Day (Philippines), and National Cherry Turnover Day.

If you love your computer or simply want to keep your office job, you should skip this holiday. Otherwise, go crazy and celebrate Crackers over the Keyboard Day.

If you haven't ruined your computer by celebrating the holiday above, feel free to participate in Race Your Mouse around the Icons Day.

Dream Day Quest and Jubilee is one of three Emancipation Days of Respect, honoring the memory of  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. August 28th is the anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech.

If you're a fashion maverick or something of a geek, you'll be glad to know today is National Bow Tie Day.

The fun people at Gone-ta-Pott have declared the 28th of every month as Gone-ta-Pott Day.

The Democratic Republic of Georgia observes Mariamoba on August 28th. Pilgrims from all over the country climb a mountain to Sameba Church in Kasbegi. One tradition involves leading a lamb to the church, circling the church three times, then slaughtering, boiling, and eating the lamb.

The fourth Sunday in August is National Heroes' Day in the Philippines.

Enjoy a tasty treat, suitable for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, in honor of National Cherry Turnover Day.

Just Because Day, Motorist Consideration Day, Banana Lover's Day, more

August 27th, 2011, is Just Because Day, Motorist Consideration Day, The Duchess Who Wasn't Day, Feast of St. Monica, Independence Day (Moldova), Banana Lover's Day, and National Pots de Creme Day.

Just Because Day is a holiday to celebrate any way you choose, just because! Enjoy your freedom, just because.

Just for today, let someone merge into your lane rather than speeding up. Use your turn signals. Maintain a proper following distance. Keep your horn and your gestures to yourself. You've successfully followed the spirit of Motorist Consideration Day! Was that so hard? How about doing the same again tomorrow?

The Duchess Who Wasn't Day is a tribute to novelist Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, who sometimes wrote under the pseudonym "The Duchess." To celebrate, say aloud this famous quote from The Duchess' novel, Molly Bawn: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

The Feast of St. Monica celebrates the patron saint of abuse victims, alcoholics, alcoholism, difficult marriages, dissappointing children, homemakers, housewives, married women, mothers, victims of adultery, victims of unfaithfulness, victims of verbal abuse, widows, and wives.

Moldova observes Independence Day, celebrating independence from the Soviet Union, on August 27th.

Celebrate the banana, the world's most popular fruit, on Banana Lover's Day. You'll love the flavor; your body will love the fiber and potassium.

National Pots de Creme Day celebrates a fabulous French custard. Interestingly, pots de creme also refers to the lidded pots in which the custard is often served.

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Toilet Paper Day, Dog Day, Cherry Popsicle Day, more

August 26th, 2011, is Toilet Paper Day, National Dog Day, Women's Equality Day, Daffodil Day (Southern Hemisphere), Heroes Day (Namibia), and National Cherry Popsicle Day.

For some mysterious reason, today is Toilet Paper Day. Be grateful we've progressed beyond Corn Cob Day.

National Dog Day is the perfect time to show love for man's best friend, as the saying goes. Shimmer, the Official Blog Dog of the Trend Police, will have a nice chunk of burger at dinner time.

Women's Equality Day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in the United States, in 1920. Representative Bella Abzug of New York inspired Congress to designate this holiday in 1971.

Daffodil Day is the premiere fundraising and awareness event sponsored by the Cancer Society, observed in the Southern Hemisphere in August while daffodils are in bloom. "The daffodil is one of the first flowers of spring, whose bright yellow blooms remind us of the joys the new season will bring. It represents the hope there is for the 1 in 3 New Zealanders affected by cancer."

Namibia observes Heroes Day on August 26th, remembering when the first bullet was fired in their fight for liberty in 1966.

Here in the Northern Hemisphere we're still enjoying the dog days of summer. Make the most of today with a cold treat in honor of National Cherry Popsicle Day.

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Kiss and Make Up Day, Second-Hand Wardrobe Day, more

August 25th, 2011, is Kiss and Make Up Day, Second-Hand Wardrobe Day, National Whiskey Sour Day, and National Banana Split Day.

If you sometimes lose patience with the ones you love, here's the holiday for you. Embrace the true spirit of Kiss and Make Up Day.

I try to teach my tween daughter the value of shopping for that million-dollar outfit on a bargain budget. It's a game, a challenge, a valuable skill. Hit the consignment shops, for today is Second-Hand Wardrobe Day.

The whiskey sour is a classic cocktail, around since the 1860s, but often overlooked these days. Did you know that a truly authentic whiskey sour includes egg white for frothiness? Cheers, for today is National Whiskey Sour Day.

If you're under twenty-one or simply prefer not to drink, National Banana Split Day is a great alternative. Banana splits feature enough fruit and nuts to seem sorta healthy, but they also include enough ice cream, chocolate, and whipped topping to satisfy every dessert fanatic.

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Strange Music Day, Vesuvius Day, Can Opener Day, more

August 24th, 2011, is International Strange Music Day, Vesuvius Day, Can Opener Day, National Knife Day, Flag Day (Liberia), Independence Day (Ukraine), National Waffle Day, and National Peach Pie Day.

What's your concept of strange music? I think of Richard Cheese, Frank Zappa, and some contemporary jazz. Happy International Strange Music Day!

Vesuvius Day commemorates the date in 79 A.D. when Mount Vesuvius erupted, killing many, preserving some in the midst of their daily activities in Pompeii, Italy.

Do you buy canned goods anymore? Some of us have cut back, preferring to reduce sodium intake and appreciate the goodness of fresh food. Nonetheless, sometimes it's irresistably convenient to zip open a can of veggies or soup. August 24th is Can Opener Day.

Let's focus on cooking, not stabbing, in honor of National Knife Day.

Liberia celebrates Flag Day on August 24th.

Ukraine celebrates Independence Day on August 24th.

Today, the anniversary of the first U.S. patent on a waffle iron, is National Waffle Day. My eleven-year-old recent made an amazingly maple-like syrup by boiling brown sugar and granulated sugar in water, then adding almond extract.

As summer winds down, enjoy a sweet, juicy summer fruit. Celebrate nature's bounty on National Peach Pie Day.

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Virgo the Virgin, August 23 to September 22

Virgo. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Everyone born between August 23rd and September 22nd is a Virgo, the sign of the Virgin.

For more information about Virgo:

• Virgo Daily Horoscope
• What's-Your-Sign for Virgo
• Astrology.com Virgo Sun Sign
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Ride the Wind Day, Valentino Day, Black Ribbon Day, more

August 23rd, 2011, is Ride the Wind Day, Valentino Day, Hug Your Sweetheart Day, International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Stalinism and Nazism, Black Ribbon Day, Buttered Corn Day, and National Sponge Cake Day.

Today is Ride the Wind Day, commemorating this date in 1977 when the Gossamer Condor was flown by Bryan Allen. This achievement marked the first human-powered flight, because Allen had to pedal the plane as if it were a bicycle!

Valentino Day is a time to remember silent film star Rudolph Valentino, born on this date in 1895 as Rudolfo Alfonzo Raffaello Pierre Filibert Guglielmi di Valentina d'Antonguolla.

If circumstance prevents you from actually hugging your sweetheart on Hug Your Sweetheart Day, at least send an e-card.

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, sponsored by the United Nations, is a day to "pay tribute to the tireless struggle of the slaves for their freedom."

In 2008 the European Parliament proclaimed August 23rd as European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Stalinism and Nazism.

Canada observes Black Ribbon Day on this date, remembering the victims of Europe's totalitarian regimes.

As summer turns to fall, what better food to enjoy than buttered corn? Corn conjures up notions of summer BBQ and fall harvest decor. Happy Buttered Corn Day.

National Sponge Cake Day makes me think of my mother, who is no longer with us. Sponge cake is a delicious retro dessert, best served with fresh fruit and childhood memories.

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Be an Angel Day, Janmashtami, Punctuation Day, Hoodie Hoo Day, more

August 22nd, 2011, is Be an Angel Day, National Tooth Fairy Day, Janmashtami, Punctuation Day, Hoodie Hoo Day (Southern Hemisphere), National Pecan Torte Day, and Eat a Peach Day.

On Be an Angel Day, celebrated every year since 1993, everyone is asked to "do one small act of service for someone." What will you do?

Moving from angel to fairy, today is also National Tooth Fairy Day. She works hard every night!

Janmashtami is the Indian celebration of the birth of Krishna. It is a time for fasting, prayer, religious processions, and music. Traditional foods for the one meal allowed during the fast include Kalakand, Gopaklala, and Murukku.

Attention! Are...you...paying...attention? Are, you, sure??? Shall I continue; misusing -- these: punctuation marks? Of course not, because today is National Punctuation Day.

The Southern Hemisphere celebrates Hoodie Hoo Day on August 22nd. Step outside at noon, wave your arms in the air, then shout, "Hoodie-hoo!" If you're lucky, your efforts will help usher in spring.

National Pecan Torte Day celebrates a special layered concoction. A torte is a cake made from eggs, sugar, and ground nuts instead of flour.

If you crave something simpler, more natural than pecan torte, take heart. Today is also Eat a Peach Day. Nothing tastes better than a sweet, juicy peach.

Senior Citizens' Day and Spumoni Day

August 21st, 2011, is Senior Citizens' Day and National Spumoni Day.

In 1988 President Ronald Reagan proclaimed August 21st as Senior Citizens' Day. The proclamation states: "For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute. We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older - places in which older people can participate to the fullest and can find the encouragement, acceptance, assistance, and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity."

Spumoni is a fabulous Italian concoction featuring stripes of cherry, vanilla, and pistachio ice cream, laced with dried fruit and nuts. Today is National Spumoni Day. Buon appetito!

Lemonade Freedom Day, World Mosquito Day, Virtual Worlds Day, more

August 20th, 2011, is Lemonade Freedom Day, World Mosquito Day, Virtual Worlds Day, National Radio Day, International Homeless Animals Day, Constitution Day (Hungary), and National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day.

The message of Lemonade Freedom Day is simple - "Selling lemonade is not a crime!" To expand on that message, local officials should back off when our children want to earn a little money, learn a bit about responsibility and business, and simply have fun. Self-described Voluntaryist Robert Fernandes writes, "Please join us on August 20, 2011 and set up your own lemonade stand. We need to send a message to everyone who is listening. They cannot shut down the kids' lemonade stands. If you do not have kids or do not want to set up your own lemonade stand, please support a local kid's lemonade stand. Selling lemonade is not a crime!"

World Mosquito Day isn't a time to celebrate those pesky little critters who bite. It is a time to think about prevention. Use repellant, avoid being outdoors at dusk, and don't leave standing water on your property. Here's a great tip to help your little ones who want to scratch: Circle the bites with a blue ink pen! I can't say why, but the circles stop the itch.

What is your favorite virtual world? I'm partial to The Sims, especially The Sims 3, a most satisfying time-sucker. Happy Virtual Worlds Day!

On National Radio Day, take a moment to appreciate a medium that's free to all and reliable, offering news, music, and entertainment. Radio has survived in spite of television, the Internet, and so many other options.

The 3rd Saturday in August is International Homeless Animals Day. On the 20th annual event in 2011, candlelight vigils will be held around the world.

Hungary celebrates Constitution Day on August 20th, honoring the adoption of their constitution in 1949.

Pecan pie is one of the world's most perfect desserts. Adding a bit of chocolate couldn't hurt, I suppose. Enjoy National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day.

Sandcastle and Sculpture Day, World Photography Day, Potato Day, more

August 19th, 2011, is Noruz, National Sandcastle and Sculpture Day, World Photography Day, National Men's Grooming Day, National Hug Your Boss Day, World Humanitarian Day, National Aviation Day, Independence Day (Afghanistan), and National Potato Day, 

In 2011 Jamshedi Noruz, the Zoroastrian New Year's Day in the Shenshai calendar, takes place on August 19th.

If you're lucky enough to be near a beach, today is the holiday for you. Create a masterpiece in honor of National Sandcastle and Sculpture Day.

To celebrate World Photography Day, capture and submit a special image of your world.

National Men's Grooming Day, sponsored by American Crew, is observed on the 3rd Friday in August. Some salons and barber shops offer special deals.

National Hug Your Boss Day is celebrated in the U.K. Organizers at TipTopJob.com say, "If you can hug your boss, you love your job!!!!"

The United Nations supports World Humanitarian Day on August 19th. The theme for 2011 is "People Helping People." U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon states: “Let those we honour today inspire us to start our own journey to make the world a better place and bring our human family more closely together.”

August 19th, the birth date of Orville Wright, is celebrated as National Aviation Day.

Afghanistan observes Independence Day on August 19th.

In honor of National Potato Day, enjoy the tasty, nutritious potato in some form other than french fry or potato chip.

Bad Poetry Day, Mail Order Catalog Day, Soft Ice Cream Day, more

August 18th, 2011, is Bad Poetry Day, Mail Order Catalog Day, National Soft Ice Cream Day, and National Ice Cream Pie Day.

In honor of Bad Poetry Day, try your hand at some truly bad verse. I'll start....

Roses are red,
Cactus is spiky.
Poetry ain't easy,
But I'll try, by crikey!

Mail Order Catalog Day commemorates the publication of the first mail order catalog on this date in 1872 - a single sheet produced by Montgomery Ward.

National Soft Ice Cream Day celebrates the softer side of ice cream, sometimes known as soft serve or custard.

If you don't enjoy your ice cream soft, no worries. Today is also National Ice Cream Pie Day! Let your creativity run wild.

Meaning of "Is" Day, Tell the Truth Day, #2 Pencil Day, more

August 17th, 2011, is National Meaning of "Is" Day, Tell the Truth Day, #2 Pencil Day, National Thrift Shop Day, National Medical Dosimetrist Day, Independence Day (Indonesia), and National Vanilla Custard Day.

On this day in 1998, then-President Bill Clinton uttered his famous words to a grand jury: "It depends upon what the meaning of the word 'is' is." The grand jury was seeking to determine the nature of Clinton's involvement with intern Monica Lewinsky. Not a high point in our political history. Anyway, today "is" the National Meaning of "Is" Day.

Tell the Truth Day is an interesting companion holiday to the one already mentioned. Does telling the truth require brutal honesty, deft avoidance of details, or a balance in which people's feelings and intentions matter more than cold, hard fact?

On #2 Pencil Day, take a moment to consider how extraordinary the ordinary pencil is. How do they get the round lead (which isn't really lead) inside that piece of wood?

National Thrift Shop Day celebrates stores where bargains can be found, sometimes on new items, sometimes on items gently used. Who can't use a bargain in these times?

National Medical Dosimetrist Day honors those oncology specialists who measure radiation doses.

Indonesia observes Independence Day on August 17th.

A world of dessert options is available for you today, National Vanilla Custard Day. Serve your vanilla custard plain, in a pie, or in creme brulee. Just enjoy!

True Love Forever Day, Tell a Joke Day, Bratwurst Day, more

August 16th, 2011, is True Love Forever Day, National Tell a Joke Day, Roller Coaster Day, Restoration Day (Dominican Republic), National Rum Day, and Bratwurst Day.

Today is True Love Forever Day. How romantic! If you have found your one true love, show them how you feel. If you haven't found your true love yet, stay hopeful - he or she is out there somewhere! (I know that from personal experience.)

In honor of National Tell a Joke Day, dust off your favorite old joke or learn some new ones. Keep your humor appropriate for your audience and have fun!

Roller Coaster Day commemorates the day in 1898 when the first roller coaster was patented. Did you know the world's fastest roller coaster - 149.1 miles per hour - is in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates? Learn more at the Roller Coaster Database.

The Dominican Republic celebrates Restoration Day on August 16th with elaborate costumes and folk dancing.

If you're over twenty-one, cheers! Today is National Rum Day.

Are you hungry? Grill up some delicious sausage links and top them with mustard. Celebrate Bratwurst Day!

Hello Day, Relaxation Day, Failure Day, more

August 15th, 2011, is Hello Day, Chauvin Day, National Relaxation Day, National Failure Day, Feast of the Assumption, Independence Day (South Korea), Independence Day (India), Constitution Day (Equatorial Guinea), Flooding the Nile, Cupcake Day for the RSPCA, and National Lemon Meringue Pie Day.

On this date in 1877, Thomas Edison suggested the word "hello" as the standard telephone greeting, rather than Alexander Graham Bell's suggestion, "ahoy." Happy Hello Day.

Chauvin Day honors (or dishonors) Nicholas Chauvin, a French soldier who idolized Napoleon and anything French. He became an object of ridicule because of his blind devotion, inspiring the word chauvinism. According to Merriam-Webster, chauvinism means:

1. excessive or blind patriotism
2. undue partiality or attachment to a group or place to which one belongs or has belonged
3. an attitude of superiority toward members of the opposite sex; behavior expressive of such an attitude

Before today I only knew about the third definition. There's always something new to learn.

Today is National Relaxation Day. Does that mean I should take the day off and not finish this blog post? Nah. But I will find a few moments to sit back, chill, and simply be. So should you. De-stressing is healthy.

Take a chance on something outside of your comfort zone today, perhaps something you've never tried before. Even if your attempt is a complete bust you'll be successful, because today is National Failure Day.

The Feast of the Assumption celebrates the happy departure of the Virgin Mary from this life and the assumption of her body into heaven.

South Korea observes Independence Day on August 15th, even though the country gained independence on August 13th, 1948.

India observes Independence Day on August 15th, the date in 1947 when India gained independence from Britain.

Equatorial Guinea observes Constitution Day today, commemorating the revision of their constitution in 1968.

Egypt observes Flooding the Nile or Wafaa El-Nil on August 15th. The three stages of Egypt's flood cycle are Akhet, Peret, and Shemu.

August 15th is Cupcake Day for the RSPCA, benefiting Australia's Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. People purchase cupcakes for the benefit of the organization. Cupcake competitions are also featured.

Today is National Lemon Meringue Pie Day. What's better than a cool, sweet-and-sour treat on a hot summer day?

Hungry Ghost Festival, Navajo Code Talkers Day, V-J Day, more

August 14th, 2011, is Hungry Ghost Festival, Navajo Code Talkers Day, V-J Day, Wiffle Ball Day, National Financial Awareness Day, Independence Day (Pakistan), and National Creamsicle Day.

Zhongyuani, the Hungry Ghost Festival, takes place on the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month. In 2011, the date is August 14th. Some Chinese believe that this is a dangerous time, when whistling, shouting, standing near water, or sitting in a "reserved" empty chair could cause unsuspecting souls to be dragged into the underworld.

Navajo Code Talkers Day honors patriotic Navajo soldiers who, despite lacking the right to vote in the United States, played a pivotal role in helping the U.S. during World War II. They assigned Navajo words to military words, creating a code their enemies could not crack.

August 14th, the day in 1945 when Japan surrendered during World War II, is observed as V-J Day or Victory over Japan Day. Some observe V-J Day on August 15th. Others choose September 2nd, when the formal surrender took place on the U.S.S. Missouri.

Today is Wiffle Ball Day, commemorating the date in 1953 when the game was first introduced.

National Financial Awareness Day is a time to honestly assess your financial situation, your attitude toward money, and your best plan of action for a secure retirement. If only our government would do the same.

Pakistan observes Independence Day on August 14th.

If it's hot and sticky where you are, here's some relief - today is National Creamsicle Day.

Left-Handers Day, Obon, Raksha Bandhan, more

August 13th, 2011, is Left-Handers Day, Obon, Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day (Central African Republic), and National Filet Mignon Day.

Left-Handers Day dates back to 1992, founded by the Left-Handers Club. Enjoy your day, lefties, and be happy you live in a time when left-handers aren't forced to convert.

Obon is a Buddhist tradition observed in Japan either in July or August, depending on whether the solar or lunar calendar is used. Regions of Japan that follow the lunar calendar observe Obon from August 13th to August 15th  this year. Celebrants hang lanterns in front of their homes to welcome their ancestors' spirits to visit. At the end of Obon, those lanterns are floated down rivers or out to sea, to guide the spirits back to their world.

Raksha Bandhan takes place on this date in 2011. Based on old stories of India, wives made lucky amulets for their husbands, called rakhi. The tradition has evolved into a brother-sister celebration, in which sisters show love for their brothers by giving them rakhi.

The Central African Republic observes Independence Day on August 13th.

August 13th is National Filet Mignon Day. This has to be one of the best foodie days ever created, unless you're a vegetarian.

Full moon names for August 13th, 2011

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for August 2011 takes place tonight, August 13th. Following is a list of full moon names for August, ranging from common to surprising:

Cutter Moon - Abenaki
When Indian Corn Is Edible - Algonquin
Berry Moon - Anishnaabe
When the Chokeberries Begin to Ripen - Arapaho
Nikini Poya - Buddhist
Dispute Moon - Celtic
Drying Up Moon - Cherokee
Fruit Moon - Cherokee
Harvest Moon - Chinese
Big Harvest Moon - Choctaw
Women's Moon - Choctaw
Dog Day's Moon - Colonial American
Summer Moon - Comanche
Young Ducks Begin to Fly Moon - Cree
Big Ripening Moon - Creek
Moon When All things Ripen - Dakotah Sioux
Fish Moon - Deborean
Corn Moon - English Medieval
Cedar Bark for Hats and Baskets - Haida
Shravan Purnima - Hindu
Raksha Bandhan - Hindu
Narali Poornima - Hindu
Moon of Joyful - Hopi
Mid Summer Moon - Kalapuya
Moon of the Ripening - Lakota
Time of Freshness - Mohawk
Full Red Moon - Native American
Green Corn Moon - Native American
Grain Moon - Native American
Full Sturgeon Moon - Native American (fishing tribes)
Lightening Moon - Neo Pagan
Corn Is in the Silk Moon - Ponca
Moon of the Middle - Potawatomi
Plum Moon - Shawnee
Hot Moon - Shoshone
Cherries Turn Black Moon - Sioux
Berries Ripe on Mountain Moon - Tlingit
Corn Moon - Wiccan
Blackberry Patches Moon - Wishram
Wyrt Moon - Unknown

Sources for full moon names:

• Farmers' Almanac - Full Moon Names and Their Meanings
• Moon Names
• A Witchy Life - August: Fruit Moon
• Hindu Blog - Purnima 2011 - 2012
• Spring Wolf's Pagan's Path - Full Moon Names
• About.com: Paganism/Wicca - Moon Phase Names in the Southern Hemisphere
• Willow Grove - Esbats & Full Moon Names
• Wikipedia - Full Moon

More about the moon:

• Keith's Moon Page
• USNO Data Services
• Google Moon
• National Geographic - Moon Facts

Vinyl Record Day, Middle Child's Day, Youth Day, Kool-Aid Days, more

August 12th, 2011, is Vinyl Record Day, Middle Child's Day, International Youth Day, Mother's Day (Thailand), Armed Forces Day (Zimbabwe), and Kool-Aid Days.

Because Thomas Edison invented the phonograph on August 12th, it is the proposed date for the national celebration of Vinyl Record Day. The Vinyl Record Day nonprofit organization is dedicated to "the preservation of the cultural influence, the recordings and the cover art of the vinyl record; celebrating our fondest music with friends and family; and promoting the future of vinyl." Don't know about you, but I have a nice stash of vinyl records from my younger days!

Middle Child's Day celebrates the ones in the middle, not the trailblazers or the babies, but the ones who add personality and common ground to a family. Pay special attention to your middle child or children on this day.

International Youth Day is a United-Nations-sponsored holiday, celebrating young adults and their quality of life. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes: "The international community must continue to work together to expand the horizons of opportunity for these young women and men and answer their legitimate demands for dignity, development and decent work. Failing to invest in our youth is a false economy. Investments in young people will pay great dividends in a better future for all."

Thailand celebrates both Mother's Day and the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on this date.

Zimbabwe observes Armed Forces Day on August 12th, celebrating the formation of the Zimbabwe National Army in 1980.

Kool-Aid Days takes place this year from August 12th to August 14th. "Peace, Love, & Pineapple!" Kool-Aid brings back memories of climbing trees, building forts with picnic tables and blankets, and cooling off with a cold drink on a hot summer day. Kool-Aid Days is an annual event in Nebraska's Tri-Cities Area.

Son's and Daughter's Day, Presidential Joke Day, Raspberry Bombe Day, more

August 11th, 2011, is  Son's and Daughter's Day, Presidential Joke Day, National Play in the Sand Day, National Garage Sale Day, Annual Medical Check-Up Day, Ingersoll Day, Assistance Dog Day, St. Clare of Assisi Feast Day, and National Raspberry Bombe Day.

Today is Son's and Daughter's Day. Celebrate as you will, but most of us parents know that every day is pretty much Son's and Daughter's Day, with carpools, schedules, homework, laundry, guidance, and that pesky room and board.

Presidential Joke Day was born on this date in 1984. Then-President Ronald Reagan made an ill-conceived remark, not realizing a nearby microphone was live. Reagan joked that he had outlawed Russia and the bombing would begin in five minutes. Well, humor is subjective, right?

You're so lucky if you live near the beach. You're all set to celebrate National Play in the Sand Day.

Do you have extra thingamabobs and doohickeys taking up space, or do you love rummaging throuth the random accumulations of your neighbors? If so, get ready, because today is National Garage Sale Day.

Here's a truly important yearly event - the Annual Medical Check-Up Day. If it's been a while since you've visited your general practitioner, please schedule an appointment today. I need all of you readers!

Ingersoll Day celebrates the memory of Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899). He was a famous orator and free-thinker, known for his agnosticism and stance against slavery.

Assistance Dog Day was established in 2007 in appreciation of the service dogs who help people with disabilities live fuller lives. Appreciate assistance dogs from a distance, though, with a donation rather than a pat on the head. These animals shouldn't be distracted from their duties.

St. Clare of Assisi Feast Day honors the patron saint of sore eyes.

Today's foodie holiday celebrates a dessert that's new to me - the raspberry bombe. Whip up this unique cold dessert for National Raspberry Bombe Day.

Duran Duran Appreciation Day, Spoil Your Dog Day, Lazy Day, more

August 10th, 2011, is  Duran Duran Appreciation Day, National Spoil Your Dog Day, Lazy Day, Independence Day (Ecuador), and National S'mores Day.

If you're a fan of 80s music, or if you enjoy Duran Duran's more recent work, turn up the volume for Duran Duran Appreciation Day.

Today is National Spoil Your Dog Day. How should you celebrate? T-bone steak and a new fire hydrant, if money is no object. An extra dog treat or hot dog, at least. Most importantly, your dog wants your time and you.

How will you celebrate Lazy Day? If you're so busy you've forgotten how to laze, get some inspiration from my new favorite singer, Bruno Mars:

On August 10th Ecuador observes Independence Day, celebrating independence from Colombia since 1830.

Even if you're not a former Girl Scout or Boy Scout, you've probably heard of s'mores. What a taste of childhood! Gather your graham crackers, your chocolate, and your marshmallows for National S'mores Day!

Rain of Mussels, Send an Email Day, Veep Day, Nagasaki Day, more

August 9th, 2011, is Rain of Mussels, Send an Email Day, National Hand Holding Day, National Women's Day, Veep Day, Book Lovers' Day, Nagasaki Day, International Day of the World's Indigenous People, and National Rice Pudding Day.

On this date in 1892 a Rain of Mussels fell. Yes, actual mussels, with shells. The strange weather event took place in Paderborn, Germany.

On Send an Email Day, touch base with someone who would love to hear from you. No spam, please, unless you're contacting a Monty Python fanatic.

National Hand Holding Day is a lovely sentiment, but be sure the people you hold hands with have washed their hands.

National Women's Day is an important observance in South Africa. On August 9th, 1956, women marched in protest against pass laws. Pass laws were a part of the Apartheid system, requiring non-whites to carry special documents in order to enter so-called white areas of the country.

Veep Day commemorates the date in 1974 when President Richard Nixon resigned from office, putting into effect new laws of succession. Gerald Ford became the new President of the United States.

To celebrate Book Lovers' Day, set aside your computer - you can do it - and read an actual paper-and-ink book. Remember how relaxing a good read can be.

Nagasaki Day marks the day in 1945, at the end of World War II, when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan.

August 9th is the International Day of the World's Indigenous People. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon states: "Together, let us celebrate and recognize the stories, cultures and unique identities of indigenous peoples around the world.  At the same time, let us work to strengthen their rights and support their aspirations.”

If you enjoy rice pudding, then today is the day for you. Celebrate National Rice Pudding Day!

Happiness Happens Day, Sneak Some Zucchini Day, more

August 8th, 2011, is Happiness Happens Day, Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Night, International Cat Day, The Date to Create, Odie Day, Bonza Bottler Day, Eleanor Roosevelt Day, Carnival (Grenada), Nane Nane, and Ceasefire Day.

Happiness Happens Day, celebrated on August 8th, was expanded to encompass the whole month of August back in 2000. But try to be extra extra happy today.

Did your garden get out of hand this year? If so, today is the holiday for you - it's Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Night! If you want to sneak something onto my porch, I'll take zucchini, tomatoes, and money.

International Cat Day is a time to pay special attention to your cat. He or she will probably make their needs known. Am I right, kitties?

August 8th is The Date to Create, so do whatever inspires you most. No one else can judge what's good or bad in the creative realm. Your vision is all that matters.

Today is Odie Day, honoring Garfield's goofy canine friend who is always ready for fun.

Bonza Bottler Day takes place every month when the date and month are represented by the same number. 8/8, for example.

The second Monday of August is Eleanor Roosevelt Day. Learn more about this great woman who was married to Franklin D. Roosevelt and accomplished much in her own right.

Grenada celebrates Carnival, otherwise known as Spicemas, on August 8th and 9th.

Nane Nane, literally "eight eight," is celebrated in some parts of Tanzania instead of the older Saba Saba, "seven seven."

Iraq celebrates Ceasefire Day every year on August 8th.

Particularly Preposterous Packaging Day, Sea Serpent Day, more

August 7th, 2011, is Particularly Preposterous Packaging Day, Sea Serpent Day, National Lighthouse Day, Beach Party Day, National Friendship Day, Lughnasad, International Forgiveness Day, National KidsDay, National Sisters Day, American Family Day, Purple Heart Day, Professional Speakers Day, Battle of Boyaca, and Independence Day (Cote d'ivoire).

Particularly Preposterous Packaging Day is our opportunity to celebrate.... no, wait. It's an opportunity to complain about packaging that requires special equipment or a locksmith to open. Maybe we should pass a law.

Have you ever seen a sea serpent? If so, today is your special day - Sea Serpent Day.

In 1789 the U.S. Congress passed an Act in support of lighthouses, beacons, buoys, and public piers. 200 years later, in 1989, Congress declared August 7th as National Lighthouse Day.

As if Sea Serpent Day and National Lighthouse Day weren't enough, today is also Beach Party Day. Combine all three for an amazing theme party.

National Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in August. Call your friends and invite them to your themed beach party, mentioned above.

Lughnasad marks the beginning of the Celtic harvest season, when the first seed planted at Samhain in early November is ready for harvest.

Today is the 15th annual International Forgiveness Day, as designated by the Worldwide Forgiveness Alliance. Life is short - forgive someone so you will both enjoy a more contented future.

National KidsDay was established in 1994 by KidsPeace, a national children's charity, "to encourage adults to spend more meaningful time with their children.

On National Sisters Day, spend time with your special life-long companion, your sister, who is there long after other friends come and go.

On American Family Day, spend time with your sister and other family members who share your history and many precious memories.

Purple Heart Day honors members of the U.S. Armed Forces who were killed in battle, who died as a result of wounds received in battle, or who were designated by the President. Thank the veterans in your life and remember those who we have lost. The original badge, the Badge of Military Merit, was designed by George Washington.

Professional Speakers Day is a time to celebrate those rare individuals who don't freeze up at the mere thought of public speaking.

Colombia remembers their victory over Spain in the Battle of Boyaca on this date, with decorations and festivities.

Cote d'Ivoire observes Independence Day on August 7th, celebrating independence from France.

Wiggle Your Toes Day, Chinese Valentine's Day, Hiroshima Day, more

August 6th, 2011, is Wiggle Your Toes Day, Chinese Valentine's Day, Fresh Breath Day, Hiroshima Day, H.H. Sheikh Zayed Accession, National Mustard Day, and Root Beer Float Day.

Wiggle Your Toes Day is a time to let your tootsies dance - on carpet, in the grass, at the pool, or, best of all, in the sand on a tropical beach. Enjoy!

Chinese Valentine's Day falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar. In 2011. the holiday falls on August 6th, honoring an old story of lovers, the daughter of the Emperor of Heaven and an orphaned cowherd, banished to separate stars and allowed to meet only once a year on this date.

Brush your teeth, rinse, then brush again. Now gargle some mouthwash and check on your supply of breath mints. You can't afford to be caught with bad breath on National Fresh Breath Day.

Hiroshima Day 2011 marks the 66th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, during World War II. One way to remember the event is to donate to the victims of the earthquake and current nuclear disaster in Japan.

H.H. Sheikh Zayed Accession is celebrated as a festival in the United Arab Emirates. Parades and operas celebrate the country's advancements during the Sheikh's reign.

The National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, USA, celebrates the 20th annual National Mustard Day today. Activities include mustard bowling, fishing for mustard, painting with mustard, the spinning wheel of mustard fortune, mustard tasting, and more. Don't miss the frozen mustard custard!

Today is Root Beer Float Day. Grab a tall, frosty glass, scoop in some creamy vanilla ice cream, and pour over some delicious bubbly root beer. Now you're ready to celebrate!

Work Like a Dog Day, Underwear Day, Beer Day, Twins Days, more

August 5th, 2011, is  Work Like a Dog Day, National Underwear Day, International Beer Day, Twins Days, and Braham Pie Day.

Work Like a Dog Day doesn't sound like much of a holiday. I guess it depends on what kind of dog. Police dogs work hard, as do guard dogs and service animals. My dog, on the other hand, just eats, sleeps, plays, and licks.

On National Underwear Day, FreshPair is giving away 5,000 pairs of underwear. Don't know why one underwear is called a pair.

Today is International Beer Day, "because we all need another excuse to drink beer."

Twins Days take place on the first full weekend in August in Twinsburg, Ohio. All multiples and their families are invited to attend.

Braham Pie Day is observed on the first Friday in August in Braham, Minnesota. The festivities include a pie art competition. Art may feature "eating pie, making pie, harvesting or growing pie ingredients, edible pie, mathematical pi, or celebrating Braham, the Homemade Pie Capital of Minnesota."

Perseids Meteor Shower 2011

The 2011 Perseids Meteor Shower is expected to be at its peak on August 12th and 13th in the hours before dawn, but meteors will be visible in the days prior. Viewing is best in the Northern Hemisphere.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. Unfortunately for us, the peak of this year's Perseids Meteor Shower coincides with August's full moon. The best viewing for this meteor shower might occur earlier in August, before the moon is so bright - thus the early posting for this event.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The Perseids Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Perseus the Hero.

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73; FreeDigitalPhotos

Check out these sites for more information about the Perseids Meteor Shower, including recommended viewing times for your corner of the globe:

• Spacedex
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2011
• StarDate 2011 Meteor Showers
• American Meteor Society

Backgammon Day, Coast Guard Day, Chocolate Chip Day

August 4th, 2011, is  Backgammon Day, Coast Guard Day, and National Chocolate Chip Day.

On Backgammon Day, enjoy this two-player classic that dates back to Mesopotamia. Do you remember the rules?

Coast Guard Day honors the U.S. Coast Guard, who guard our shores and waterways. These days they also assist with Homeland Security.

Today is National Chocolate Chip Day - not the cookie, just the chip. Do whatever you want with those chips, including eating 'em straight out of the bag!

Chokhor Duchen, Colonization Martyrs' Day, more

August 3rd, 2011, is Chokhor Duchen, Colonization Martyrs' Day,  Independence Day (Niger), Armed Forces Day (Equatorial Guinea), and Watermelon Day.

Chokhor Duchen is one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist holidays, celebrating each of the great deeds of Buddha. Chokhor Duchen commemorates the first sermon of Buddha, in which he delivered the Four Noble Truths.

Guinea-Bissau celebrates Colonization Martyrs' Day on August 3rd. The day is also known as Pidjiguiti Martyrs’ Day, remembering those who were killed at Pidjiguiti.

Niger observes Independence Day on August 3rd, celebrating independence from France.

Equatorial Guinea observes Armed Forces Day on August 3rd.

Watermelon Day is a great excuse - as if you needed one - to eat watermelon. Eat a lot if you want, because it's mostly water and all delicious. Even the rind is good, pickled.

National Night Out, Kadooment Day, Ice Cream Sandwich Day, more

August 2nd, 2011, is National Night Out, Egton Bridge Gooseberry Show, Lady of the Angels Day, Fiesta La Patrona, Barbados Kadooment Day, and National Ice Cream Sandwich Day.

The United States observes the 28th annual National Night Out tonight, except for Texas, which observes the event on October 4th. The National Night Out is meant to deter crime and drug use.

The Egton Bridge Gooseberry Show takes place on the first Tuesday in August. The festival, which originated in 1800, is the oldest surviving such celebration in the United Kingdom.

Costa Rica celebrates Lady of the Angels Day, honoring the appearance of a young girl called La Negrita.

Fiesta La Patrona takes place in Pollenca, Spain. Villagers dress in pajamas and take to the streets with sticks and swords, to reenact the 1550 battle between local hero Joan Mas and invading Barbary Pirates.

Citizens of Barbados celebrate Kadooment Day today. They harvest and sell their crops in a parade and carnival atmosphere.

National Ice Cream Sandwich Day is always observed on August 2nd, helping us through a hot day near the end of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

August 2011 month-long celebrations

August brings the final hurrah of summer for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. Take time to start a new tradition, inspired by an offbeat holiday or worthy cause from this list of August celebrations. Events are listed alphabetically, with descriptive words such as "National" and "World" omitted.

Admit You're Happy Month
Air Travel Month
Almost Too Late to Get a Tan Month
American Adventures Month
American Artist Appreciation Month
American Indian Heritage Month
Audio Book Appreciation Month
Back to School Safety Month

Black Business Month
Breastfeeding Month
Brownie Month
Brownies at Brunch Month
Buwan ng Wika (Language Month)
Cataract Awareness Month
Catfish Month
CDC Fruit of the Month - Edible Cactus
CDC Vegetable of the Month - Celery and Fennel
Child Support Enforcement Month
Children's Eye Health and Safety Month
Children's Vision and Learning Month
Coffee Month
Eat Dessert First Month 
Eye Exam Month
Family Fun Month 
Foot Health Month
Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
Goat Cheese Month
Golf Month
Happiness Happens Month
Immunization Awareness Month
Inventors' Month
Maine Lobster Month
Medic-Alert Awareness Month
Motorsports Awareness Month
Napping Month
Neurosurgery Outreach Month
Panini Month
Parks Month
Peach Month
Pedestrian Safety Month
Pennsylvania Produce Month
Picnic Month
Professional Speakers Month
Psoriasis Awareness Month

Ramadan - July 31st to August 30th
Romance Awareness Month
Sandwich Month
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month
Tour de USA - July 30th to September 15th
Truancy Prevention Month
Water Quality Month
What Will Be Your Legacy Month
Win with Civility Month

If you know of other month-long celebrations that should be included in this list, please provide info in the Comments section below. Happy August!