Skip to content

Celebrate critical thinking and the transition from myth to logic by getting involved with Thales Day! Raise a glass to the beginning of sound human reasoning by joining in with various activities and events in honor of Thales of Miletus, honoring his life, and learning more about his work that led to modern thinking. 

History of Thales Day

While it might seem impossible to pinpoint the exact day that rational thinking began, some scientists and philosophers believe that it can be traced back to May 28, 585 BC. This is that date most commonly associated with the first accurate prediction of a solar eclipse by legendary Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus. His work is considered to be the common origin of the logical study of nature – the beginning of using reason and sound judgment to better understand the world.

The celebration of Thales Day has taken place unofficially in pockets of the scientific world for many years. In 2015, the event was marked as the 2600th anniversary of science and Danish philosopher, Henrick Schoneberg, was a catalyst for the celebration of the day. Live events took place in Copenhagen and other celebrations also took place in honor of Thales Day in places around the world, including the Chicago Science Fest in the United States.

Since then, Thales Day has become an annual event that acts as a cultural landmark to show appreciation for science, philosophy and critical thinking about nature, with live events in Denmark as well as online and in person activities for those celebrating around the world.

How to Celebrate Thales Day

Scientists, philosophers and thinkers can join in on the fun of celebrating this “father of Western science” with some activities for Thales Day, such as these:

Host an Event for Thales Day

One of the best ways to go about observing and raising awareness for Thales Day might be to host an event in the local community. Whether at a school, university, or science society, the organizers of Thales Day are inviting people all over the world to get involved by enabling constructive dialogue and pursuing human flourishing through mutual understanding. Find more information at the official website for the day. 

Learn More About Thales 

Get on board with Thales Day by delving into some interesting facts about science, philosophy and this fascinating Greek thinker himself, Thales of Miletus. Head over to the library or do a little research online to learn more, including some of these interesting facts that can be shared online to raise awareness for the event:

  • Often regarded as the father of Western philosophy and science, Thales was the guy who led thinking from myth to logic

  • Thales’ knowledge of astronomy helped him to predict plentiful olive crops and make business choices that allowed him to become very wealthy

  • A main belief of Thales was that water was the main element from which everything in the universe originated

  • As an accomplished mathematician, especially in geometry, Thales is rather famous for his theorem about right triangles

Also on ...

View all holidays

National Hamburger Day

Grill up a hamburger for yourself, or visit any number of sandwich shops and restaurants to enjoy one of mankind’s greatest, greasiest culinary inventions.

Menstrual Hygiene Day

Many women do not have access to feminine hygiene products, which can lead to shame and even dropping out of school. Donate to charities to help rectify this.

National Brisket Day

Take the plunge and try your hand at making one of the more complicated but also most delicious cuts of beef, the ever-popular brisket.

National Flip Flop Day

Tropical Smoothie Café customers get a free smoothie for showing up in flip-flops on Flip-Flop Day, but let your feet breathe even if you don’t have a local one.

View all holidays

We think you may also like...

National Common Courtesy Day

Just doing those little things, like holding the door or saying 'thank you,' can turn an ordinary day into a brighter one.

National Let’s Laugh Day

Laughter boosts mood, relieves stress, and strengthens relationships. So, don't forget to laugh often and spread joy wherever you go!

Idaho Human Rights Day

Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, dignity and fairness. Upholding human rights means promoting equality and justice for all.

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!