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.
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.
Mark your calendar for Thursday, December 17th, 2026, as we celebrate the 123rd Anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ First Flight.
9:00–11:30 a.m. — Ceremony at Wright Brothers National Memorial, Kill Devil Hills, NC. Admission is free. Program to be announced.
12:00–2:00 p.m. — First Flight Society Luncheon. Tickets are $50 per person. Program to be announced.
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, Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim
December 17, 2026, 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 Donate to the First Flight Society
Support the First Flight Society
Donations from individuals, the aviation community and area businesses fund much of the First Flight Society’s work throughout the year — especially the December 17th anniversary celebration at Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Your gift helps preserve the story of the first flight, supports educational programs for schools and students, and keeps Wright Brothers Day free and open to the public.
Please give what you can through our secure PayPal giving page. To discuss a gift by mail or another way to help, contact us at dec17@firstflight.org or (252) 441-1903.
- P.O. Box 1903, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
- (252) 441-1903
- dec17@firstflight.org
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.
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.