Presidential Proclamation

Wright Brothers Day

Observed annually on December 17th by Presidential Proclamation to commemorate the first powered flight and honor the Wright brothers’ historic achievement that launched the aviation age.

December 17th
National Observance
United States
Learn About Observance
Celebrating the 123rd
Anniversary

Wright Brothers Day is celebrated every December 17th to commemorate the first successful flights in a heavier-than-air, mechanically propelled airplane by Orville and Wilbur Wright on December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

The First Flight Society Wright Brothers Day Celebration is held annually at Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, NC. The event runs from 9AM–5PM and admission is free, attracting hundreds of people to the historic Outer Banks during the offseason.

Mark your calendar for Thursday, December 17th, 2025, as we celebrate the 123rd Anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ First Flight with special ceremonies, exhibits, and our traditional annual luncheon.

Historic First Flight

Key facts about the momentous day that changed the world forever.

December 17, 1903

First Powered Flight

10:35 AM

Time of Historic Flight

120 Feet

Distance of First Flight

12 Seconds

Duration of First Flight

Presidential Proclamation

 

Each year, the President issues a proclamation designating December 17th as Wright Brothers Day.

 

Official Proclamation

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, [President’s Name], President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim

December 17, 2024, is Wright Brothers Day. I call upon Federal agencies and the people of the United States
to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor the achievements of the Wright brothers.”

– Presidential Proclamation (Annual)

How To Sponosor Wright Brothers Day this Year!

Become A Sponsor

Organizations from the aviation community and area businesses sponsor and underwrite many First Flight Society activities and programs throughout the year, especially the December 17th anniversary celebration.

Available sponsorship levels range from $1,000 to the $10,000 level. Sponsors are featured in our emails, press releases, advertising and on event websites.

  • P.O. Box 1903, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
  • (252) 441-1903
  • dec17@firstflight.org

2024-2025 Sponsors

December 17, 2026

08:30 am – 02:30 pm

08:030 - 2:30
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Educational Resources

Schools and educational institutions are encouraged to conduct special programs about the Wright brothers and aviation history.

Resources are available through the Smithsonian, NASA, and other organizations to support Wright Brothers Day education.

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National Significance

Wright Brothers Day celebrates American innovation and the spirit of discovery that continues to drive progress.

The observance reminds us that with determination and scientific method, seemingly impossible dreams can become reality.