07月14日

International Non-Binary Day was established to draw attention to the experiences and challenges faced by people who identify outside the traditional gender binary. The date was chosen because it falls between International Women's Day (March 8) and International Men's Day (November 19), symbolizing its bridging role. Events around the world include marches, panel discussions, social media campaigns, and artistic performances. Activists and organizations use the day to highlight policy changes, promote inclusive language, and foster community support. Social media hashtags like #NonBinaryDay and #TheyThem amplify voices and share personal stories.

Bastille Day marks the beginning of the French Revolution when revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789. The holiday officially commemorates the 1790 Fête de la Fédération, held on the same date to celebrate national unity. Since 1880, it has been a public holiday in France, known for its grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées. Festivities include fireworks, concerts, communal meals, and dancing. In Japan and other countries, it is often referred to as ‘Paris Matsuri’ and celebrated with French-themed events and cultural exhibitions.

On July 14, 1958, a group of Iraqi military officers led by General Abd al-Karim Qasim carried out a coup that ended the Hashemite monarchy. The revolution ushered in the birth of the Iraqi Republic and significant political and social reforms. Republic Day is observed with official ceremonies, military parades, and public gatherings. The holiday reflects on the country’s modern history and the aspirations for unity and progress. It remains a focal point for national identity and remembrance of the revolution’s ideals.

The San Fermín festival, held from July 6 to 14 in Pamplona, honors Saint Fermín, the city’s patron saint. The final day features the last and most anticipated bull run through the streets, known as the Encierro. Thousands of participants don white attire with red scarves to chase the bulls, attracting adventurers from around the world. Festivities also include traditional music, dance performances, and a fireworks display that closes the event. Rooted in medieval religious ceremonies, the festival has evolved into an internationally renowned cultural celebration. Visitors can enjoy parades, folk art exhibitions, and local Navarra cuisine throughout the week.

On July 14, 1853 (lunar June 9, Kaei 6), Commodore Matthew C. Perry of the United States Navy arrived off the coast of Uraga in Edo Bay with four black ships. Perry landed at Kurihama and presented a letter from President Millard Fillmore to the Tokugawa shogunate, urging the opening of Japan to foreign trade. This event, known as the arrival of the Black Ships, set in motion diplomatic negotiations that ended Japan’s sakoku policy of isolation. The commemoration is observed locally with historical reenactments and educational events. It highlights a pivotal moment in Japanese history that ushered in the country’s modernization and global engagement.

On July 14, 1871 (lunar calendar; August 29, 1871, Gregorian), the Meiji government issued an edict abolishing the traditional han feudal domains and establishing a centralized prefectural system. This reform, known as haibanshokken, was a cornerstone of Japan’s modernization during the Meiji Restoration. It dismantled the power of local lords and created a uniform administrative structure under the central government. The change facilitated national integration, economic development, and legal reforms. Commemorations include lectures, exhibitions, and academic discussions on the significance of this transition for Japan’s modernization and governance.

On July 14, 1977, Japan launched its first meteorological satellite, Himawari, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The Himawari series, including satellites 1 through 5 of the same model, provided real-time weather monitoring and greatly improved forecasting across the Asia-Pacific region. Himawari’s data is used for tracking typhoons, monitoring cloud patterns, and supporting climate research. The satellite program laid the foundation for advanced earth observation and remote sensing in Japan. Anniversary events include public lectures, museum exhibitions, and educational programs about space technology and meteorology.

On July 14, 1872, the Tokyo Nichi-Nichi Shimbun published Japan’s first-ever job advertisement, signaling the start of a formal employment market. This milestone reflected the rapid social and economic changes during the early Meiji era. Employers began using newspapers to seek workers, paving the way for modern recruitment practices. Industry seminars, exhibitions, and panel discussions are held to celebrate the evolution of the labor market. The day highlights the history of advertising and its impact on business, employment, and communication in Japan.

Established in 2006 by the Endoscopic Medical Research Promotion Foundation, Endoscopy Day falls on July 14 based on the Japanese wordplay “na(7)-i(1)-shi(4).” The day highlights the importance of endoscopic procedures for early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Medical societies, hospitals, and research institutions host seminars, workshops, and public health screenings. It serves to educate both professionals and the public about the latest innovations and best practices in endoscopy. The event fosters collaboration, research, and improved patient care in the field of minimally invasive medicine.

Designated by the Japan Gelatin & Collagen Peptide Industry Association, July 14 was chosen as Gelatin Day to coincide with the French Revolution anniversary, reflecting gelatin’s importance in French cuisine. The same date also serves as Jelly Day because gelatin is the primary ingredient in jelly. Industry events include product showcases, culinary demonstrations, and recipe contests featuring innovative uses of gelatin and jelly. The day promotes the nutritional benefits, versatility, and tradition of gelatin-based foods in both gastronomy and confectionery. It also highlights collaboration between food science, industry, and culinary arts.

「しんぶん配達の日」は2013年に日本新聞販売協会が制定した記念日です。 1977年7月14日に日本初の気象衛星「ひまわり」が打ち上げられたことになぞらえ、衛星が地球を巡って情報を配信する姿と新聞配達のイメージを重ね合わせています。 新聞が戸別に届けられる仕組みを称え、地域社会への情報提供の重要性を再認識する日とされています。 同名の「新聞配達の日・新聞少年の日」は日本新聞協会が新聞週間中に設定しているため、日付が異なる点に注意が必要です。 情報化社会での報道・配達の役割について考える機会にもなっています。

「月でひろった卵の日」は1987年7月14日に山口県の和洋菓子店あさひ製菓株式会社が制定した記念日です。 この日は同日に発売された銘菓「月でひろった卵」の発売開始を記念しています。 記念日の目的は、商品への感謝を示すことと地域の和洋菓子文化を発信することです。 山口県内外に向けて地元銘菓の魅力を伝える機会となっています。 毎年この日に合わせて店舗で何らかの企画が実施されることがあります。