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Days Until December 20th

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December 20th, 2026

Last reviewed on May 7, 2026.

About December 20th

December 20th is one of 365 days on the calendar — and like every date, it has its own mix of facts, observances, and history. December 20th is considered the birthday of the crossword puzzle, invented by Arthur Wynne in 1913. The countdown below shows how many days remain until the next December 20th, with notes on what the date is known for, the traditions associated with it, and notable events that have happened on this day.

📚 Interesting Facts

December 20th is considered the birthday of the crossword puzzle, invented by Arthur Wynne in 1913

People born on December 20th are Sagittarius, known for their intellectual curiosity and philosophical nature

This is day 354 of the year, with 11 days remaining until New Year's Eve

The Louisiana Purchase was completed on this date in 1803, doubling the size of the United States

December 20th is National Sangria Day in the United States, celebrating the popular Spanish beverage

🎊 Traditions & Celebrations

National Sangria Day is celebrated on December 20th across the United States

Many people enjoy solving crossword puzzles on this day to honor Arthur Wynne's invention

This date is part of the final countdown to Christmas, with last-minute shopping and preparations

Cookie exchanges and holiday baking parties are popular traditions during this time

Communities often hold candlelight services and caroling events as Christmas approaches

📜 Historical Events on This Day

1803

The Louisiana Purchase was completed in New Orleans, doubling the size of the United States for $15 million

1812

Brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm published the first volume of their famous fairy tales

1860

South Carolina became the first U.S. state to secede from the Union following Abraham Lincoln's election

1880

New York's Broadway was first lit by electric streetlights using arc lamps invented by Charles F. Brush

1913

Arthur Wynne's first crossword puzzle was published in the New York World newspaper

1946

It's a Wonderful Life, directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, premiered in New York City

1956

The Montgomery bus boycott ended after 381 days when the U.S. Supreme Court ruling integrating buses was implemented

1996

The horror film Scream was released, revitalizing the horror genre and becoming a cultural phenomenon

1999

Macau was handed over from Portugal to China, ending 442 years of Portuguese rule

Why Count Down to December 20th?

Whether you're planning ahead, celebrating a tradition, or marking a personal milestone, tracking the countdown to December 20th helps you prepare and build anticipation. Use CountDay.org to:

  • Never miss important dates and plan accordingly
  • Build excitement as the day approaches
  • Share the countdown with friends and family
  • Set reminders and prepare for celebrations
  • Track multiple countdowns in one convenient place