Previous Day Next Day

May 17, 2026 Holiday:

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia is a significant annual celebration that aims to raise awareness about the struggles and injustices faced by the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. This day is dedicated to promoting respect, tolerance, and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. It's a time for people to come together, share their stories, and advocate for the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals who have been marginalized, discriminated against, or victimized. The day is marked by rallies, marches, and other events that highlight the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and equality. By observing this day, we can work towards creating a more just and compassionate society where everyone can live freely and authentically.

Learn more about International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
Holidays on May 17, 2026:

World Baking Day

Join World Baking Day on 5/17/2026, where baking brings people together, sharing joy and warmth through freshly baked treats. more >>

Stepmother's Day

Honoring stepmothers on Stepmother's Day, May 17, 2026, acknowledging their love, care, and dedication to their stepchildren. more >>

World Hypertension Day

World Hypertension Day, 5/17/2026: Learn about the dangers of high blood pressure, its risks, and how to prevent and control it through healthy lifestyle habits and early detection. more >>

National Cherry Cobbler Day

National Cherry Cobbler Day, 5/17/2026, indulge in warm, flaky, and fruity goodness, family recipes, and creative twists on a classic dessert. more >>

World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day

World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day, 5/17/2026: Learn about the rare genetic disorder affecting millions worldwide, and how you can make a difference. more >>

National Mushroom Hunting Day

National Mushroom Hunting Day - 5/17/2026: Learn about this lesser-known holiday and discover mushroom-related traditions and activities people enjoy. more >>

World Information Society Day

World Information Society Day, May 17, 2026: Harnessing ICTs for a more inclusive and equitable society. more >>

National Walnut Day

National Walnut Day on 5/17/2026: Discover the rich goodness of walnuts, packed with antioxidants, protein, and healthy fats, and explore their cultural significance. more >>

World Telecommunications Day

World Telecommunications Day, May 17, 2026: Explore the impact of telecommunications on daily life, bridging gaps and driving social progress. more >>
Birthdays on May 17:

Bob Saget

Died in 2022, aged 65

A comedian, actor, and TV host who starred in popular sitcoms and hosted a iconic game show, known for his witty humor and charming on-screen presence.

Howard Ashman

Died in 1991, aged 40

A visionary behind iconic Disney classics, crafting unforgettable characters and songs that have become an integral part of pop culture.

Matt Ryan

40 Years Old

Quarterback who led the Atlanta Falcons to Super Bowl LI and holds multiple NFL passing records, earning him the 2016 NFL MVP award.

Sugar Ray Leonard

69 Years Old

A legendary boxer who won world titles in five different weight classes, known for his lightning-quick reflexes and devastating punches.

Bill Paxton

Died in 2017, aged 61

Versatile actor and director known for his iconic roles in sci-fi and action films, including Aliens, Twister, and Apollo 13.

Trent Reznor

60 Years Old

A visionary musician and producer who has been a driving force behind industrial rock and Nine Inch Nails, creating hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking music that resonates ...

Tony Parker

43 Years Old

A four-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star point guard, known for his lightning-quick drives and clutch shooting. He led the San Antonio Spurs to multiple titles and was named ...

Dennis Hopper

Died in 2010, aged 74

Iconic actor and director known for his rebellious, counterculture persona and memorable roles in films like "Easy Rider" and "Apocalypse Now".

Enya

64 Years Old

New Age icon behind ethereal, Celtic-infused soundscapes and hauntingly beautiful vocals, crafting music for films and inspiring a generation of ambient artists.

Josh Homme

52 Years Old

Lead vocalist and guitarist of Queens of the Stone Age, known for his distinctive vocal style and heavy riffs in the stoner rock genre.

Simon Fuller

65 Years Old

Creator of the Idols series, a global phenomenon that revolutionized the music industry and launched the careers of numerous stars. Known for discovering and nurturing talented art...

Alan Kay

85 Years Old

Pioneering computer scientist and academic who developed the concept of object-oriented programming and created the Smalltalk language, revolutionizing software development.

Events from History on May 17:
72 years ago
Unanimous Supreme Court verdict outlaws racial segregation in schools (Supreme Court of the United States, Washington, D.C., 20543, USA) 1954
In a landmark moment, the highest court in the land, the United States Supreme Court, handed down a unanimous decision that would change the course of history. In Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, the justices declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, a move that struck at the heart of the discriminatory "separate but equal" doctrine. This groundbreaking ruling, led by Chief Justice Earl Warren, paved the way for the civil rights movement and paved the way for a more equitable society.
83 years ago
Dambuster Raids: No. 617 Squadron RAF bombs German dams. (Russelsheim, Germany) 1943
In the dead of night, 19 Lancaster bombers from No. 617 Squadron RAF took off from RAF Scampton, England, carrying a top-secret payload - cylindrical "bouncing bombs" designed to skip across water and destroy German dams. Led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, the daring "Dambusters" set out to disrupt Nazi Germany's industrial heart, braving treacherous weather, flak, and enemy fighters to deliver their payload. As the bombs struck, the Möhne and Edersee dams burst, unleashing a torrent of water that flooded the Ruhr Valley, crippling German war production. This audacious operation would become one of the most celebrated feats of World War II.
270 years ago
Great Britain declares war on France, sparking the Seven Years' War (London, England, UK) 1756
The die was cast on a fateful day in May when Great Britain, feeling threatened by France's expanding empire, decided to take drastic measures. The British government, under the leadership of King George II, formally declared war on France, marking the beginning of the Seven Years' War. This global conflict would embroil multiple European powers, Native American tribes, and even distant colonies, reshaping the world order forever. The war would be a testing ground for influential leaders, new military tactics, and diplomatic alliances, ultimately setting the stage for the rise of British supremacy in the 18th century.
86 years ago
German forces seize Brussels, Belgium during WWII (Brussels, Belgium) 1940
The morning of May 17, 1940, was a dark one for Belgium as German forces, led by Adolf Hitler, stormed into Brussels, catching the country off guard. The rapid advance of the Wehrmacht, Nazi Germany's armed forces, had already taken Luxembourg and the Netherlands, and now Belgium was next in line. Panic spread as Belgian officials scrambled to evacuate, and King Leopold III, realizing the futility of resistance, ordered his army to surrender. As the Germans occupied the capital, the city's historic Grand Place lay deserted, its ornate guildhalls and Gothic spires a stark contrast to the chaos and fear that gripped the city. Brussels, once a beacon of peace and culture, was now under the iron grip of the Third Reich.
36 years ago
WHO removes homosexuality from diseases list (World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland) 1990
The World Health Organization's General Assembly took a monumental leap forward by deleting homosexuality from the list of psychiatric diseases, a move that marked a significant shift in understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. This decision acknowledged that being gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a mental disorder, but rather a natural part of human diversity. This historic moment paved the way for a more inclusive and accepting world, where people could live their authentic lives without fear of persecution or judgment.
161 years ago
Global communication takes a giant leap forward (Paris, France) 1865
The International Telegraph Union, precursor to the International Telecommunication Union, is born in Paris! This pivotal moment marks the beginning of a standardized, global communication network. Diplomats from 20 European countries, along with the United States, converge to establish common rules and tariffs for telegraphy. This union paves the way for seamless communication across borders, bridging the gap between nations and setting the stage for future technological advancements.
Notable Deaths on May 17:
1886John Deere American inventor and industrialist behind a iconic brand
2012Donna Summer Queen of disco, renowned for her iconic voice and style
2004Tony Randall Iraqi politician who fought for peace and unity.
1911Frederick August Otto Schwarz Entrepreneurial innovator behind a renowned toy store
2011Harmon Killebrew Legendary baseball player with a lasting impact on the game
1510Sandro Botticelli Visionary artist who redefined the Renaissance
2006Cy Feuer Versatile director and composer known for his work in film and television
2001Frank G. Slaughter Spanish footballer, coach, and manager who scored big on and off the pitch.
1996Kevin Gilbert Talented singer-songwriter and producer who left a musical legacy.
1875John C. Breckinridge American statesmen and warfighter with a tumultuous legacy
1987Gunnar Myrdal Pioneering economist, sociologist, and statesman who received the Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking work.
2020Lucky Peterson American blues musician who skillfully blended genres and captured hearts
2014Gerald Edelman American scientist and Nobel laureate credited with groundbreaking work on the immune system
1985Abe Burrows Outstanding American director and composer with a legacy in the world of entertainment.
2019Herman Wouk American author celebrated for his historical fiction and engaging storytelling
2005Frank Gorshin Prolific character actor with a knack for playing memorable roles
1992Lawrence Welk Legendary accordionist and bandleader who charmed audiences with his unique sound.
1829John Jay American statesman who wrote the Federalist Papers and presided over the Supreme Court
1935Paul Dukas Renowned classical composer
2009Mario Benedetti Uruguayan journalist and author who spoke truth to power