August is the eighth month of the year, originally named Sextilis (Latin for “sixth”) by the Romans. It was later renamed to honor Emperor Augustus Caesar, who extended the month to 31 days so it would equal the length of July.
The “Dog Days” Connection: The term “Dog Days of Summer” refers to the hottest, muggy days of the month. It traces back to the ancient Romans and Greeks, who linked the stifling temperatures to the rising of Sirius, the “Dog Star.”
Peridot and Meteorites: August is uniquely special because it has three birthstones: sardonyx, spinel, and the vibrant olive-green peridot. Peridot is one of the only gems that can be found both formed in the earth’s mantle (expelled by volcanoes) and inside fallen meteorites.
August-Born Babies: People born in August fall under the signs of Leo (July 23–August 22) and Virgo (August 23–September 22). Studies show that babies born during summer months like August tend to be taller and heavier at birth.
The Starry Skies: It is a peak time for stargazing. The annual Perseid meteor shower, one of the brightest and most prolific of the year, usually peaks between August 11 and 13.
Uniquely Calendered: In standard years, August never starts on the same day of the week as any other month. However, in leap years, it starts on the exact same day as February.
August 4: National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day – The perfect excuse to bake a fresh batch or grab a warm cookie from local bakeries like Crumbl Cookies (serving the Fort Myers area).
August 10: National S’mores Day – Head out to local outdoor spots or firepits to toast marshmallows with chocolate and graham crackers.
August 25: National Banana Split Day – Cool down from the late summer heat by indulging in this classic ice cream sundae.
