October 24 is a date in the Gregorian calendar. In a common year it is the 297th day of the year; in leap years it is the 298th day (see leap year). There are 68 days remaining until the end of a common year. The date falls in late October and is within the astrological sign of Scorpio for much of the world.
Seasonally, October 24 sits in mid-autumn for the Northern Hemisphere and mid-spring for the Southern Hemisphere. It is often used as a marker for school terms, fiscal planning in many organizations, and seasonal cultural events. October’s traditional birthstones (opal and tourmaline) and autumnal motifs are commonly associated with birthdays and anniversaries on this date.
Notable observances
Several international observances fall on or are commonly celebrated on October 24:
- United Nations Day — observed annually to mark the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945 and to highlight the organization’s work.
- World Polio Day — observed to raise awareness and support for polio eradication efforts worldwide.
Selected historical events
October 24 has been the date of important historical moments and anniversaries. Examples frequently cited in histories include the dramatic stock market events that began on the day now known as Black Thursday in 1929, and the formal coming into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945. Over time the date has continued to serve as the anniversary for diplomatic, political, and cultural commemorations.
Common references and distinctions
When discussing dates across different calendar systems, October 24 is identified within the Gregorian calendar. Historical records that use the Julian or other calendars may list different corresponding dates, so historians often note which calendar is being referenced. In everyday contexts, October 24 is used for scheduling, observance planning, and as a temporal reference point for events occurring in late October.
People born or memorialized on October 24 are celebrated by family, communities, and organizations that mark the date for anniversaries. The day’s association with international observances gives it a recurring role in global diplomacy and public-health campaigns, while its seasonal placement makes it part of autumn traditions in many cultures.