27 Fun Facts About October | Chilly Wind Mysteries (2025 Facts)

1. October’s name comes from the Latin octo, meaning eight.

October’s name is a fascinating historical remnant. Derived from the Latin octo, meaning eight, it might seem unclear since it’s the tenth month in our current Gregorian calendar. 

But in the ancient Roman calendar, October was the eighth month.

2. October 12 Moment of Frustration Day, encouraging you to let out a scream.

International Moment of Frustration Scream Day, celebrated on October 12, was an ingenious creation of Thomas and Ruth Roy.

This day encourages everyone to step outside and scream for 30 seconds, providing a unique outlet for pent-up stress. 

Much like the practices of meditation or daily exercise, this controlled release of frustration can be a highly effective stress reliever. 

3. In the Southern Hemisphere, October is a spring month.

October is springtime in the Southern Hemisphere, including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. 

During this time, it’s getting warmer, and the days are getting longer. Flowers are starting to bloom. This differs from the Northern Hemisphere, where it’s autumn in October.

4. October has two birthstones, opal and tourmaline.

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Those lucky enough to be born in October have two birthstones to call their own: opal and tourmaline. 

Opal, with its kaleidoscope of colors, represents hope, faith, and confidence. It’s a stone that inspires creativity and brings about good luck.

On the other hand, tourmaline is available in a rainbow of beautiful colors. It strengthens the body and spirit, especially the nervous system, blood, and lymph. 

5. October ends on the same week as February every year.

It’s fascinating calendar trivia that October always ends on the same day of the week as February of the same year. So, for instance, if February 282023 falls on a Tuesday, then October 312023 will also be on a Tuesday. 

This regular pattern arises from how the days of our seven-day week line up with the structure of our 12-month calendar. 

6. The Anglo-Saxons called October Winterfylleth because it marked the beginning of winter.

The Anglo-Saxons, early settlers of England, referred to October as Winterfylleth, indicating the start of winter. 

This name combines the words for winter and full moon, suggesting the first full moon of winter. 

7. On October 14, 1947, Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier.

On October 14, 1947, an essential milestone in aviation history occurred. An American test pilot, Chuck Yeager, became the first person to break the sound barrier.

This means he flew faster than the speed of sound, a feat previously thought impossible. He achieved this milestone in his Bell X-1 aircraft, nicknamed Glamorous Glennis.

8. The pumpkin, a famous October symbol, was once believed to cure snake bites.

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The pumpkin, a recognizable symbol of October and fall festivities, carries a quirky folklore. 

In times past, people thought this vibrant orange squash could cure snake bites. The belief was so strong they’d apply crushed pumpkin seeds to the wound to draw out the venom. 

9. The cornerstone of the White House was laid in October 1792.

In October 1792, a significant event in American history occurred—laying the White House’s cornerstone. 

This monumental act began the construction of one of the most iconic buildings in the United States, home to the country’s presidents since John Adams in 1800. 

10. October’s flower is the marigold.

Each month has a flower associated with it, and it’s the vibrant marigold for October. Known for their rich gold color, marigolds symbolize passion and creativity.

They’re often seen in gardens and floral arrangements, bringing a burst of autumnal color. The marigold’s bright, cheerful blooms perfectly encapsulate October’s energetic spirit.

11. Halloween, on October 31, is the last day of the month.

Halloween, celebrated on October 31, is not just about costumes and candy. It began long ago as an old festival called Samhain. 

People lit big fires and dressed up to keep ghosts away. Now, it’s a fun holiday that brings people together. 

Spooky decorations and trick-or-treating make the end of October exciting for everyone.

12. Oktoberfest, the German festival, is often celebrated in October.

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Despite its name, Oktoberfest, the world-renowned German festival, often kicks off in September and runs into the early days of October. 

Known for its lively atmosphere, traditional music, and various beers, Oktoberfest captures a unique aspect of German culture and invites people worldwide to join in the celebration.

14. People born in October are either Libra (1-22) or Scorpio (23-31).

If you’re born in October, your zodiac sign is either Libra (if your birthday falls between the 1st and 22nd) or Scorpio (between the 23rd and 31st). 

Libras are known for their balance and diplomacy, while Scorpios are recognized for their passion and assertiveness. 

15. Cuban Missile Crisis happened in October 1962.

October 1962 was a tense time in world history, marking the Cuban Missile Crisis. This was a 13-day political and military standoff between the UU.S. and the Soviet UnU.S. over installing nuclear-armed Soviet missiles in Cuba.

It’s one of the closest instances where the Cold War nearly escalated into a full-scale nuclear conflict.

16. The London Bridge was sold to an American and relocated to Arizona in October 1968.

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A fascinating event in architectural history occurred in October 1968 when the iconic London Bridge was sold and transported to Arizona, USA.

An American businessman, Robert P. McCulloch, purchased the bridge, had it dismantled, shipped across the Atlantic, and meticulously reassembled it in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

17. Many people believe stock markets are more likely to decline in October.

October is sometimes associated with stock market declines due to a phenomenon known as the October Effect.

Although not backed by substantial statistical evidence, some investors believe October is a jinxed month for the stock market, creating an air of superstition around financial dealings.

18. Black Cats Awareness Month in October dispels myths about these felines.

October also serves a meaningful cause as Black Cats Awareness Month. This month-long observance aims to debunk myths and negative stereotypes about black cats, which are often misunderstood and less likely to get adopted due to age-old superstitions.

19. Columbus Day, remembering Christopher Columbus’s arrival, is in October.

Columbus Day, which falls on the second Monday of October, commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on OOctober 12, 1492.

This holiday is observed in various ways throughout the United States, with approximately 34 states recognizing it as an official holiday. It marks an important milestone in global exploration.

20. October’s full moon is often called the Hunter’s Moon.

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The full moon in October, often called the Hunter’s Moon, holds special significance. Traditionally, this term comes from Native American tribes who would hunt during this month to stockpile food for the upcoming winter.

Astronomically, the Hunter’s Moon is unique as the time difference between moonrises on successive evenings is shorter than usual. 

This means it appears in the sky longer, providing ample light during crucial hunting evenings.

21. Be Bald and Be Free Day on October 14 celebrates those without hair.

October 14a is a unique and heartening day known as Be Bald and Be Free Day. This is a particular time for people who are bald, either by choice or circumstance, to embrace their looks. 

It’s estimated that around 85% of men will have significant hair thinning by age 50, making this day a celebration of acceptance and confidence for millions worldwide.

22. The Great Fire of Chicago occurred in October 1871.

In October 1871, one of the most devastating fires in U.S. history occurred in the Great Fire of Chicago. This catastrophic event lasted three days, from October 8 to 8ctober 10.

The fire destroyed about 3.3 square miles of the city, claimed approximately 300 lives, and left more than 100,000 homeless, marking it as a significant event in Chicago’s history.

23. The United Nations was founded in October 1945.

Something important happened in October 1945. The United NU.N.ions (U.N.) wU.N. started on October 24 2is countries work together better.

There are now countries in tU.Nthe. They will try to keep peace, help people, and care for the Earth.

24. The 1929 Stock Market Crash happened in October, starting the Great Depression.

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October 29 is a day that Wall Street won’t forget. It is known as Black Tuesday. Today, 16 million shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange. 

The result? A loss of about $14 billion in stock value. This massive sell-off caused panic, and for some stocks, there were no buyers at all. 

Many investors were left with nothing, marking the start of the Great Depression.

25. Thomas Edison filed his patent for the electric lamp on October 22, 1879.

October holds a bright spot in history, particularly on the 22nd of 1879, when Thomas Edison filed his patent for the electric lamp. 

This innovation illuminated a new era, transforming our lives and work. Edison’s invention, though improved upon since, continues to impact the daily lives of billions globally.

26. Canada celebrates Thanksgiving in October.

While Americans celebrate Thanksgiving in November, Canadians observe it in October, specifically on the second Monday of the month. 

This day of gratitude and feasting shares many traditions with its American counterpart, including turkey. 

With nearly 80% of Canadians marking the occasion, it is one of the country’s most celebrated holidays.

27. October is the birth month of many influential figures.

October is the birth month of several luminaries. Fun fact about October 2: it’s not only the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, India’s freedom icon, but also recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence in his honor. Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s birthday is October 7.

Music legend John Lennon was born on October 9, while pop star Katy Perry and fashion giant Ralph Lauren celebrate theirs on October 25 and 14, respectively.

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