Jan
February 2026
Mar
On This Day 4 mins Read

February 13: Facts & Historical Events On This Day

Did you know that on this day, February 13, 2017, Star Wars actor Harrison Ford nearly crashed his plane?

Fact Checked Human Written Verified Sources Regularly Updated

February 13th observes Radio Day and Tortellini Day.

We’d like to welcome you to the 44th day of the year! We still have 321 days left in 2026.

And, what a day this day was in history from famous crimes, sports and legendary beasts and more, this day is jam packed with past events to keep you entertained.

Did you know that on this day, February 13, 2017, Star Wars actor Harrison Ford nearly crashed his plane? While landing he narrowly missed another aircraft at John Wayne Airport, California.

Keep reading for more fun & interesting facts about February 13th in history!

Historical Events

What memorable events happened on February 13 in history? Keep reading to find out!

Winter Storm Uri caused blackouts and killed 82 people in Texas & northern Mexico.

After a near collision with another aircraft at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, Star Wars actor Harrison Ford was almost killed.

OTD in 2017: After a near collision with another aircraft at John Wayne Airport in Orange County

Drake released his fourth mixtape, “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.”

The European Space Agency successfully launched the Vega launch rocket for the first time.

At exactly 23:31:30 (UTC), Unix time passed 1,234,567,890.

The world-famous British boy band, Take That, announced their breakup.

France became the fourth nuclear-capable nation following its successful Gerboise Bleue atomic test.

Planes dropped bombs across Dresden, Germany, during WWII.

OTD in 1945: Planes dropped bombs across Dresden

Robert L. Douglas, the Father of Black Professional Basketball, set up the first pro-black basketball team called Renaissance.

Jesse James performed his first daylight armed robbery in the US.

OTD in 1866: Jesse James performed his first daylight armed robbery in the US.

The University of North Carolina opened, becoming the first US public state university.

William and Mary ascended to the English throne as co-rulers.

Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for his trial before the Roman Inquisition.

OTD in 1633: Galileo Galilei arrived in Rome for his trial before the Roman Inquisition.

The city of Baghdad, Iraq, surrendered to the Mongols after a battle that saw thousands killed.

Famous Births

Is today your birthday? If so, you share the same birthday with Jerry Springer. Here are a few other famous people born on this day.

1974

Robbie Williams

English Singer

Age

51 years old

Born IN

England, UK

1944

Jerry Springer

British-American Broadcaster

Age

81 years old

Born IN

England, UK

1988

Aston Merrygold

English Singer

Age

37 years old

Born IN

England, UK

1944

Stockard Channing

American Actress

Age

81 years old

Born IN

New York, USA

Birthday & Zodiac

Everyone who was born on February 13 shares the same star sign, Aquarius.

Air is the element given to Aquarius because they are in the middle of the winter season, meaning they can be stubborn.

People born in February all have the Amethyst birthstone. Wearing this violet gem can help to reduce tension and stress. Amethyst symbolizes protection, safety, and protection against overall bad health.

Violets, the primary birth flower for February, capture the unwavering loyalty and truth of those born in this month. The secondary birth flower, primroses, embodies young love and optimism.

If you were born on this day, you were likely conceived on the week of May 23 in the previous year.

A baby that is conceived on February 13, 2026, will likely be born around November 6, 2026.

Special Holidays

If you're looking for something to do today, maybe these special holidays might just help to cure your boredom!

World

World Radio Day

You may not know it, but radio is still the number one source of mass media in the world. That’s why UNESCO designated today as World Radio Day, so be sure to tune in today and turn off that TV!

United States

National Tortellini Day

There’s simply nothing better than a big plate of steaming tortellini to warm your soul. You can try making some today by yourself, or duck out to your favorite store, just don’t miss this opportunity to treat yourself to this Italian delight.

Fact Of The Day

Days Until

Your countdown to 2026's upcoming special days!

  • Valentine's Day

    1 day

  • Women's Day

    23 days

  • St Patrick's Day

    32 days

  • Earth Day

    68 days

  • Halloween

    260 days

  • Christmas Day

    315 days

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About The Author

Luke Ward
Owner

Luke Ward is the owner of FactstoryHub. He has over 14 years of experience in researching, informative writing, fact-checking, SEO & web design. In his spare time, he loves to explore the world, drink coffee & attend trivia nights.

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