Rain Day
July 29, Tuesday
History of the holiday
The origin of Rain Day is connected to the town of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, USA. It all began in the 19th century when a local pharmacist, William Elliot, noticed that it almost always rained on July 29 in this region. He started keeping records and then passed the tradition on to a relative, who continued to document the weather conditions on that date.
Over time, this meteorological anomaly grew into a local celebration. Townspeople began organizing events, concerts, and amusing "sports bets" on whether it would rain again on July 29.
Features of the celebration
Although Rain Day started as a local event in Waynesburg, it eventually acquired symbolic meaning:
* people celebrate the holiday on social media, sharing photos of rain, umbrellas, and landscapes;
* poets and artists publish works inspired by rain;
* in Waynesburg, festivities, concerts, and walks in the rain continue if it actually rains;
* schools, libraries, and cultural centers hold themed events dedicated to rain in nature and art.
Meaning and symbolism
Rain is associated with renewal, calmness, and contemplation. This day is an opportunity to pause, observe nature, listen to the patter of raindrops, shelter under umbrellas, or conversely — walk barefoot through puddles.
Interesting facts
* It has been recorded that in Waynesburg it really rained on July 29 more than 70% of the time over the past 100 years.
* The town annually organizes a symbolic "bet" with celebrities — whether it will rain again.
* Some countries have adopted the holiday as a reason to celebrate the importance of rain in ecosystems and agriculture.