Yuri's Night
April 12, 1961 — the day humanity first reached the stars.
About
Yuri's Night is an international celebration held on April 12 each year to mark two historic milestones in space exploration: the first human spaceflight by Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961, and the first launch of NASA's Space Shuttle on April 12, 1981. The global event connects space enthusiasts, scientists, educators, and dreamers through hundreds of parties and public events worldwide.
History
Yuri Gagarin completed a single orbit of Earth aboard Vostok 1 on April 12, 1961, spending 108 minutes in space. The date was declared International Human Space Flight Day by the United Nations in 2011. Yuri's Night as a formal global celebration was founded in 2001, growing into a movement in over 75 countries.
Where It's Observed
How to Participate
- 01Watch a documentary about Yuri Gagarin or early space exploration
- 02Stargaze and identify planets visible from your location tonight
- 03Attend a local planetarium show or space museum event
- 04Explore NASA or ESA imagery from current space station missions
Frequently asked questions
When is Yuri's Night?+
Yuri's Night is observed annually on April 12. The date is fixed each year — April 12 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is Yuri's Night?+
Yuri's Night is an international celebration held on April 12 each year to mark two historic milestones in space exploration: the first human spaceflight by Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961, and the first launch of NASA's Space Shuttle on April 12, 1981. The global event connects spac…
Is Yuri's Night a public holiday?+
Yuri's Night is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in Yuri's Night?+
Watch a documentary about Yuri Gagarin or early space exploration Stargaze and identify planets visible from your location tonight Attend a local planetarium show or space museum event These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe Yuri's Night?+
Global — Yuri's Night World Space Party.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2027 and never miss Yuri's Night.