National Inventors' Day
Celebrate American ingenuity on National Inventors' Day! Observed on Thomas Edison's birthday, this day honors the inventors whose creativity and innovation have changed the world. From the light bulb to the iPhone, American inventors lead the way.
About National Inventors' Day
Celebrate American ingenuity on National Inventors' Day! Observed on Thomas Edison's birthday, this day honors the inventors whose creativity and innovation have changed the world. From the light bulb to the iPhone, American inventors lead the way.
History & origins
National Inventors' Day is an American observance tied to Thomas Edison’s birthday, February 11, and it is commonly described as having been declared in 1983 during the Reagan administration. The day is used to recognize inventors and the role of patents, research, and innovation in U.S. history. Its origin is straightforward in concept but somewhat informal in practice: it is an observance rather than a major federal holiday.
Why it matters
National Inventors' Day highlights how inventions shape daily life, from communication and medicine to transportation and consumer technology. It also puts a spotlight on patent culture and STEM education, encouraging students and adults to think creatively, build prototypes, and solve practical problems.
How to celebrate
Learn about famous American inventors. Visit science and technology museums. Work on your own inventions or ideas. Apply for a patent if you have an invention. Encourage kids to be creative and innovative. Share inventor stories on social media.
Facts
- The US Patent Office has issued over 11 million patents
- Thomas Edison held 1,093 US patents
- American inventors created the telephone, airplane, and internet
- The US leads the world in innovation and patents
- Many everyday items were invented in America
Upcoming dates
- Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Thursday, February 11, 2027
- Friday, February 11, 2028
- Sunday, February 11, 2029
- Monday, February 11, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Inventors' Day in 2026?
National Inventors' Day in 2026 is on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. It always falls on Thomas Edison’s birthday.
What is National Inventors' Day?
National Inventors' Day is a U.S. observance that honors inventors and the creative process behind new technologies. It is especially associated with Thomas Edison and American innovation.
Who started National Inventors' Day?
The observance is commonly credited to a 1983 declaration during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. The day was chosen to align with Thomas Edison’s birthday, but it functions as an informal observance rather than a formal federal holiday.
How do you celebrate National Inventors' Day?
People celebrate by learning about famous inventors, visiting science museums, or working on their own ideas and prototypes. Teachers and parents often use the day to encourage kids to experiment, invent, and ask questions.
Is National Inventors' Day the same as National Inventors Month?
No, National Inventors' Day is a single-day observance on February 11, while National Inventors Month is a broader monthlong celebration. Both focus on invention, innovation, and the importance of inventors.
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