August 17th is known as Thrift Shop Day and Black Cat Appreciation Day.
Today is the 229th day of the year, and there are only 136 days remaining in 2025.
If this day is important to you then check out these interesting facts and historical events all related to August 17.
Did you know that on this day, August 17, 1877, Asaph Hall discovered Mars’ second moon called Phobos? He had continued looking for Martian moons after already discovering its first moon, Deimos.
Keep reading for more fun & interesting facts about August 17th in history!
Historical Events
What memorable events happened on August 17 in history? Keep reading to find out!
Three Americans made the first successful Atlantic Ocean crossing by hot air balloon.
Ben Abruzzo, Larry Newman, and Max Anderson spent six days traveling in a hot air balloon that left Maine, USA, and arrived in France. Although the record was broken when they reached the Irish coast, the trio wanted to make the achievement more significant by landing in Paris.
Famous Births
Are you celebrating your birthday today? If so, did you know that you share the same birthday as Robert De Niro? See what other famous people were born on this day.
1991
Austin Butler
American Actor
Age
34 years old
Born IN
California, USA
1943
Robert De Niro
American Actor
Age
82 years old
Born IN
New York, USA
1994
Taissa Farmiga
American Actress
Age
31 years old
Born IN
New Jersey, USA
1960
Sean Penn
American Actor
Age
65 years old
Born IN
California, USA
Birthday & Zodiac
People who were born on this day all share the Leo star sign.
Leo is associated with fire, along with Aries and Sagittarius. Did you know that Egyptians used to worship the constellation? They referred to as “Knem,” and it was visible during the flooding of the Nile River.
Anyone born in August has the Peridot birthstone. Peridot is known as the stone of compassion; wearing this gemstone helps calm anger. Its unique healing powers are also believed to help with depression.
People born on August 17 were likely conceived on or around November 24 in the previous year.
A baby that is conceived on this day will likely be due around May 10, 2026.
Quotes
What is your favorite quote from August 17? Here are the most noteworthy quotes said on this day throughout history.
1962
“With fame, you know, you can read about yourself, somebody else’s ideas about you, but what’s important is how you feel about yourself – for survival and living day to day with what comes up.”
Marilyn Monroe
(American Actress)
Special Holidays
Looking for a reason to celebrate? Well, here's a few! These unique holidays are sure to bring some enjoyment to your day.
United States
National Thrift Shop Day
Thrift stores are like treasure troves just waiting for you to rummage through. While you might not always find what you want, it’s rare to come away empty-handed! So take a trip to some of your favorite thrift shops today and see what you can find; it is Thrift Shop Day, after all!
United States
National Black Cat Appreciation Day
Whoever came up with the superstition that black cats give you bad luck should be ashamed of themselves. For thousands of years, we’ve persecuted these poor felines for no reason at all. So if you come across a black cat today, make sure to give it some extra love and attention!
Fact Of The Day
Days Until
Your countdown to 2025's upcoming special days!
-
Halloween
75 days
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Christmas Day
130 days
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New Year's Day
137 days
