Presidential Joke Day

August 11, Sunday

Presidential Joke Day is observed annually on August 11th. This day celebrates the humor and wit of U.S. presidents, acknowledging their ability to lighten the mood and use humor as a tool in politics. The day was inspired by a joke made by President Ronald Reagan on August 11, 1984, when he quipped during a sound check for a radio broadcast, "My fellow Americans, I am pleased to tell you today that I've signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes." The joke, which was not meant to be broadcast, highlighted the importance of humor in politics and led to the establishment of this lighthearted holiday.