National Flashlight Day

On National Flashlight Day, take out your flashlights to celebrate the inventors who brought light to dark moments! Flashlights guide us when the sun sets, revealing what’s hidden in the dark. They’re essential tools for every household.

History

The flashlight era began in 1887, when German inventor Carl Gassner received a patent for his zinc–carbon battery. Gassner combined this power source with Thomas Edison’s electric incandescent lamp to create the first electric flashlight, revolutionizing portable lighting.

Today, most people use their smartphone’s built-in flashlight, but classic handheld flashlights remain indispensable in emergencies—phones can lose charge, whereas a fresh set of batteries keeps a flashlight shining for hours. Flashlights come in many styles: tactical, emergency, railroad, camping, and more!

Interesting Facts

Here are some intriguing facts about batteries:

• Archaeologists discovered an ancient clay jar—known as the “Baghdad Battery”—that may have generated electricity.
• Despite myths, cold storage does not improve battery performance.
• Battery leaks are generally harmless to skin but can cause severe eye irritation and chemical burns.
• Rechargeable batteries require specific chargers—always use the manufacturer’s recommended device.

How to Take Part

Celebrate National Flashlight Day by hosting an evening without grid power. Turn off the lights at home and enjoy a flashlight-only gathering. Or go for a nighttime walk with friends, using flashlights instead of phone screens!

When is National Flashlight Day in 2025?

National Flashlight Day is observed on December 21 each year.

Observations