National Summit Day

A group of diverse individuals wearing outdoor gear, standing at the summit of a majestic mountain, representing the ambitious spirit of National Summit Day.. — National summit day illustration

Welcome to the exciting world of National Summit Day! This is the day when we honor the towering achievements of humanity, whether they involve scaling peaks or reaching new heights in other areas of life. So, tighten your climbing boots or grab your metaphorical flag and join us as we explore the fascinating history of this special day.

When is Summit Day?

It's national summit day on the 12th May.

A Brief History of National Summit Day

Believe it or not, National Summit Day is a relatively new addition to the calendar of quirky observances. It was first proposed by a group of passionate adventurers who wanted to celebrate the spirit of conquering challenges and pushing boundaries.

The date for National Summit Day was strategically chosen to coincide with the highest number of online mentions, which happened on 12 May 2018. This became the official day to unfurl the banners and toast to the daring souls who have stood on mountaintops throughout history.

As with many national days, the origin of National Summit Day can be traced back to the embattled realms of the internet. Social media platforms, travel blogs, and outdoor enthusiasts fervently spread the word about the day, turning it into a trending topic that captured the imaginations of millions.

How to Celebrate National Summit Day

National Summit Day is a versatile celebration that can appeal to adrenaline junkies and dreamers alike. Here are a few ways you can enjoy this day:

Plan an actual mountain climbing adventure with friends or loved ones to experience the literal exhilaration of reaching the summit. Don't forget to capture stunning panoramic views and share them online to inspire others!
If a physical climb seems daunting, go for a metaphorical ascent by setting goals in other areas of your life. Launch that business venture you've been dreaming of, conquer a new skill, or overcome a personal obstacle. The sky's the limit!
Indulge in an epic feast with a menu inspired by the world's highest peaks. Whip up dishes from the Himalayas, the Andes, or the Alps and savor the flavors of mountaintop cuisine. That's what we call reaching the pinnacle of taste!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the tallest mountain in the world is Mount Everest, standing proudly at 29,029 feet? It's the ultimate challenge for climbers, and many risk their lives just to stand on its summit. Now, that's dedication!

History behind the term 'Summit'

15th century

A lofty beginning

The word 'summit' traces its origins back to the 15th century, when it first appeared in Middle English. Derived from the Latin word 'summus', meaning 'highest', this term originally referred to the highest point of a mountain or hill.

18th century

Rising political significance

By the 18th century, 'summit' began to be used metaphorically to describe a meeting or gathering of high-ranking individuals who aimed to discuss important matters. This usage reflected the notion that important discussions or negotiations took place at the highest level.

20th century

The birth of diplomatic summits

The term 'summit' gained further prominence in the 20th century with the emergence of diplomatic summits. The first notable diplomatic summit was the Washington Naval Conference held in 1921-1922, where world powers convened to discuss naval disarmament and peacekeeping efforts. Since then, 'summit' has become synonymous with high-level international meetings that shape global politics.

21st century

Summits go virtual

In the 21st century, technology has transformed the concept of summits. With the advent of video conferencing and online platforms, virtual summits have become increasingly common. These digital gatherings enable leaders from different countries to come together without the need for physical travel, promoting international cooperation and reducing carbon emissions.