IDEAS FOR JULY 20TH, SPACE EXPLORATION DAY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

By J. David Baxter

1. July 16th, the anniversary of the Apollo 11 Launch. The first day of U.S. Space Observance. Have Steak and Eggs for Breakfast. On the morning of the Apollo astronaut's launches, they had steak and eggs for breakfast.
2. Sometime during the July 16 - 24 U.S. Space Observance period, have the family take a nature walk or hike to celebrate the spirit of exploration.
3. Sometime during U.S. Space Observance, have Public star parties, with telescopes.
4. Sometime during U.S. Space Observance, have Public model rocket launchings.
5. Throughout the U. S. Space Observance, have Special shows at planetariums and public science centers.
6. Throughout the U. S. Space Observance, have Space Science Fiction classic movies on television.
7. During U.S. Space Observance, have television specials about Apollo 11, the Apollo Program, the benefits of space research, and our future in space.
8. During U.S. Space Observance, have newspaper articles on the benefits of space research, Project Apollo, and our future in space.
9. On July 20th Space Exploration Day Holiday, in the morning Children should each receive one science education toy.
10. First Step event, where every participant in the world, starts celebration on the exact time Neil Armstrong took his first step onto the Moon. A parade could lead up to the First Step Event.
11. On July 20th, family members enjoy mooncakes and gaze at the Moon, while remembering the fact that astronauts have been there, and will return there in the future.
12. Dances or parties, with futuristic themes and costumes.
13. News media coverage of Space Exploration Day, with emphasis on our future in space and space benefits. Also, emphasis on other Apollo-like commitments to create a better future for all mankind.
14. On July 24th, the end of U.S. Space Observance, have dinner under the stars.
15. On July 24th, have Public fireworks display.
16. Retail marketing people could come up with even better, fun, practical ways for the public to celebrate Space Exploration Day. Commercialization would help advertise the holiday, and help it be fun for the general public. Otherwise, people will only notice it on the calendar, like Flag Day, without any celebration, except in space groups. For example, as a general rule, Flag Day is only celebrated by veterans groups. Some people do put out the Flag however.