Fun Facts of November You Won’t Believe Exist!

Reviewed by Soliu.

November is the month with the most holidays in the United States. There are 14 holidays celebrated in November, including Thanksgiving Day, Veteran’s Day, and Black Friday. This is just one of the numerous fun facts of November!

You’d like to know even more fun facts of November, right? Then, read this article to the end. November is a month that often flies under the radar. It is wedged between October and the festive cheer of December.

Sometimes, it seems like November doesn’t get the attention it deserves. However, if you dig a little deeper, you’ll discover that November is packed with fascinating and unexpected facts that will leave you amazed. 

From historical events to quirky celebrations and natural phenomena, here are some fun facts of November you won’t believe exist. There’s also a trivia question I’ll need your thoughts on at the end of this article. Watch out for it!

Fun Facts of November You Won’t Believe Exist

1. Origin of November

The name “November” originates from the Latin word “novem,” which means nine. In the ancient Roman calendar, November was indeed the ninth month.

The month of November was added to the calendar by the Romans in 713 BCE when the calendar was expanded to twelve months. The month was initially known as “November” in Latin, but the spelling was later changed to “Novembris” and then to “November” in English.

2. Movember, the month of Moustaches: The Month of Moustaches

November has been unofficially designated as “Movember,” a month-long event where men grow mustaches to raise awareness about men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. 

It’s an ingenious combination of “November” and “mustache,” and it has gained international recognition. Participants, often called “Mo Bros,” start the month clean-shaven and document their mustache-growing journey throughout November.

3. Guy Fawkes Night

November 5 is celebrated as Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night in the United Kingdom and some other parts of the Commonwealth. This tradition dates back to 1605 when Guy Fawkes and his fellow plotters tried to blow up the British Parliament. 

Every year, people commemorate the foiled Gunpowder Plot by lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks. It’s a night filled with colorful displays and a reminder of an event that changed history.

4. National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

November is the month when aspiring novelists around the world take on the ambitious task of writing a 50,000-word novel in just 30 days. 

This event, known as NaNoWriMo, encourages participants to put pen on paper (or fingers on keyboard) and unleash their creative writing talents. It’s a testament to the power of determination and the joy of storytelling.

5. The Birth of the Teddy Bear

In November 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt went on a hunting trip in Mississippi. When he failed to make a kill, his hosts caught a bear and tied it to a tree, offering it as an easy target. 

However, Roosevelt found this unsportsmanlike and refused to shoot the defenseless animal. This act of compassion inspired a political cartoon by Clifford Berryman, which, in turn, led to the creation of the teddy bear by a toy company. November marks the birth of this iconic stuffed animal.

6. The End of Daylight Saving Time

One of the more practical but often overlooked fun facts of November is the end of daylight saving time in many parts of the world. The clocks are turned back one hour on the first Sunday of November, giving us an extra hour of sleep. While it means shorter days and longer nights, it’s a welcome change for those who cherish that extra hour of rest.

7. Day for American Thanksgiving

The fourth Thursday in November in the United States is celebrated as Thanksgiving Day. It’s a time for families and friends to come together, share a festive meal typically featuring turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, and express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. Parades and football games are also an integral part of this holiday.

8. The Berlin Wall Fell

One of the most significant events of the 20th century occurred on November 9, 1989—the fall of the Berlin Wall. This event symbolized the end of the Cold War and the reunification of East and West Germany. On this momentous occasion, crowds gathered to celebrate and usher in a new era in European history.

9. Scorpio and Sagittarius Birthdays

November is a unique month when it comes to astrology. It’s the transition period between Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21). 

Scorpios are often associated with mystery and intensity, while Sagittarians are known for their adventurous and optimistic nature. If you’re into astrology, November presents an exciting blend of personalities.

10. Guinness World Records Day

Each year in November, Guinness World Records Day is celebrated. They showcase some of the most remarkable achievements from around the world. 

From the largest collection of rubber ducks to the longest fingernails on a pair of hands, this day is a testament to human creativity and determination to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

11. The Leonid Meteor Shower

Every November, the Earth travels through the debris left behind by Comet Tempel-Tuttle, resulting in the Leonid meteor shower. This astronomical event, which typically peaks around November 17, offers a dazzling display of shooting stars. Stargazers and astronomers alike eagerly await this celestial spectacle.

12. World Kindness Day

One of the fun facts of November that is less known worldwide is World Kindness Day, which is always on the 13 of November. It is a day dedicated to promoting acts of kindness and compassion. This is to show that even a tiny act of kindness can make a big difference to individuals and communities. So, why not take a moment on this day to spread some positivity and make someone’s day a little brighter?

13. The Month of Remembrance

November is a month for reflection and remembrance in many cultures. For instance, in the United States, Veterans Day is observed on November 11 to honor military veterans. 

In addition, November 1 is All Saints’ Day, and November 2 is All Souls’ Day in the Catholic tradition when people remember and pray for the deceased. The poppy flower, a symbol of remembrance, is often associated with this month.

14. A Month of Changing Weather

In many parts of the world, November marks the transition from autumn to winter. It’s a month of changing weather patterns, with colorful leaves giving way to bare trees and mild temperatures gradually dropping. This shift in seasons sets the stage for the holiday festivities that lie ahead.

15. World Diabetes Day

November 14 is recognized as World Diabetes Day, a global awareness campaign aimed at promoting diabetes prevention and management. This date was picked to coincide with the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, one of the scientists who discovered insulin, a crucial hormone for diabetes treatment.

16. The American Civil War Ended

The American Civil War, one of the most devastating conflicts in U.S. history, came to an end in November. On November 6, 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee submitted to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the war and marking the beginning of the long process of post-war reconstruction.

17. The Month of Gratitude

With Thanksgiving being a central event in November, the entire month often takes on a theme of gratitude. It’s a time when people reflect on the things they are thankful for and express their appreciation to loved ones. The practice of keeping a gratitude journal has gained popularity in recent years as a way to cultivate a positive mindset.

18. The First Human Heart Transplant

On November 27, 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first successful heart transplant in Cape Town, South Africa. 

The recipient, Louis Washkansky, survived for 18 days with his new heart. This groundbreaking medical achievement paved the way for future advancements in organ transplantation.

19. National Adoption Month

In the United States, November is designated as National Adoption Month – a time to recognize the adoption process and celebrate adoptive families. It highlights the importance of giving children in need a loving and stable home.

20. The Beaujolais Nouveau Release

Every year, on the third Thursday of November, wine lovers eagerly await the release of Beaujolais Nouveau, a young and fruity red wine from the Beaujolais region of France. The tradition of uncorking the first bottles at midnight has become a global celebration of wine and conviviality.

21. A Time for Cozy Comfort

As the weather turns cool in many parts of the world, November becomes a month for cozy comfort. It’s a time to break out the warm sweaters, scarves, and blankets and to enjoy hot beverages by the fire. 

There’s something comforting about the transition to the colder months, which often includes hearty soups, apple cider, and pumpkin spice everything.

22. National Native American Heritage Month

In the United States, November is designated as National Native American Heritage Month. It’s an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans to the country. Throughout the month, events and educational programs are offered to foster understanding and appreciation.

23. National Pepper Month

Did you know that November is National Pepper Month? This is one of the fun facts of November you won’t believe exists obviously. While it is less celebrated than other food-themed months, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse world of peppers. From the scorching hot chili pepper to the mild bell pepper, there’s a pepper for every palate.

24. The Great Emu War

One of the most unusual and amusing events in history occurred in Australia in November 1932. Known as the Great Emu War, it was a futile attempt by the Australian government to control the emu population, which had become a nuisance to farmers. 

The soldiers armed with machine guns were no match for the agile and evasive emus, resulting in a hilarious and unexpected defeat.

25. Discovery of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb

On November 4, 1922, the tomb of the young Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, was discovered by British archaeologist Howard Carter. King Tut’s tomb, a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian artifacts, provided invaluable insights into this ancient civilization. 

Its discovery remains one of the most significant archaeological achievements of the 20th century.

26. The Mysterious Bermuda Triangle

The Bermuda Triangle, also dubbed the “Devil’s Triangle,” is a region in the western North Atlantic Ocean where ships and aircraft have allegedly disappeared under mysterious circumstances. 

While the existence of the Bermuda Triangle as a paranormal phenomenon is highly debated, it remains a topic of fascination and speculation. November 27 marks the anniversary of the disappearance of Flight 19, one of the very famous incidents associated with the Bermuda Triangle.

27. No-Politics Day in Japan 

In Japan, November 3 is known as “Culture Day,” which includes a tradition called “No-Politics Day.” On this day, politicians are encouraged to put aside their political disputes and focus on cultural activities.

28. The Birth of Mark Twain

The renowned American author Mark Twain was born on November 30, 1835, under the name Samuel Langhorne Clemens.

29. Birthdays of Famous Figures

November boasts a list of notable birthdays, including those of influential figures in history and pop culture. Some famous November-born individuals include Mark Twain, Marie Curie, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Scarlett Johansson. It’s a month that has given the world a diverse range of talent.

30. National Pizza Month (Yes, it’s still November!)

November is indeed a month of culinary celebrations, and it’s also recognized as National Pizza Month in the United States. Pizza lovers can rejoice in a month dedicated to savoring this beloved dish in all its cheesy, saucy glory.

Conclusion

November may appear unassuming at first glance, but it’s a month filled with intriguing history, unique traditions, and opportunities for personal growth and reflection. 

From historical events and cultural celebrations to unique holidays and natural phenomena, there’s a lot more to November than meets the eye. 

Here’s a trivia question;

Shakespeare never mentions the month of November in any of his plays or sonnets. I don’t know why that’s the case. What about you? Is it a coincidence, or he had no love for November? Can we call this one of the fun facts of November?

I’d like to know what you think about this trivia question in the comments box. Also, remember to tell me which of the fun facts of November you find interesting.