Strictly speaking, we will be celebrating our first First Contact Day on April 5, 2063. Every die-hard Trekkie knows that on this day, the Vulcans and humans will make contact for the first time! Nonetheless, fans have been celebrating First Contact Day since 1996 — when the idea was introduced in the film, “Star Trek: First Contact.” The best way to celebrate this day is by enjoying all things “Star Trek” and reliving our favorite movies and episodes with Trekkies!
History of First Contact Day
Created in 1966 by Gene Roddenberry, “Star Trek” is a beloved American television and film enterprise that has captured the fancy of generations of sci-fi enthusiasts. The enterprise follows the adventures of Captain James T. Kirk and his crew of the starship USS Enterprise. Unlike most holidays, First Contact Day is a day in future history! Trekkies believe that April 5, 2063, will be an important moment in the history of mankind. It is on this very day that scientist Zefram Cochrane first achieves warp drive in his Phoenix spacecraft. Only a few moments after the historic launch, Vulcans appear at the base near Bozeman, Montana. First Contact Day thus also honors the achievements of Dr. Cochrane. As you must have figured out by now, First Contact Day is all about celebrating the historic first interactions between humans and Vulcans. But who are the Vulcans? Living about 16 light-years away from Earth, the Vulcans are a humanoid race from the planet Vulcan. In the “Star Trek” universe, Vulcans are believed to be masters of logic who have found ways to conquer aggressive and violent emotions. One of pop culture’s most iconic figures, Commander Spock, is also a Vulcan.Even though “Star Trek” is American in its origin, through the years, the franchise has achieved cult status with sci-fi lovers from all around the world. People from across various age groups and cultures enjoy the movies and TV shows, and the characters have become icons in their own right!
First Contact Day timeline
“Star Trek,” now known as "The Original Series", debuts on NBC.
The first “Star Trek” movie, “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” is released.
The inspiration for First Contact Day, “Star Trek: First Contact,” is released.
In the “Star Trek” universe, humans and the Vulcans make contact for the first time.
First Contact Day FAQs
What is the date of ‘First Contact’?
First Contact Day is celebrated on April 5. It is the day when the Vulcans first make contact with humans on April 5, 2063. The site of the ‘First Contact’ is near the town of Bozeman, Montana.
Is there a Star Trek Day?
Star Trek Day is celebrated annually on September 8.
When did Zefram Cochrane land the Phoenix?
In “Star Trek: First Contact,” Zefram Cochrane achieves warp speed for the first time on April 5, 2063. This date marks a pivotal moment in the history of humankind.
First Contact Day Activities
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Watch “Star Trek: First Contact”
This is a no-brainer. The easiest and most important way to celebrate First Contact Day is to gather other Trekkies and rewatch this fabulous movie!
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Make yourself some cheese pierogies
No party is complete without food and what better way to celebrate First Contact Day than to savor some of Cochrane’s favorite food? Cheese pierogies are easy to make and the recipe is easily available online.
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Greet everyone with the Vulcan salute
The Vulcan salute is an awesome way to greet people any time of the year and especially so on First Contact Day. Live long and prosper!
5 Facts About Star Trek That Will Blow Your Mind
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Spock was supposed to have red skin
We’re used to Spock’s slightly green-tinted skin but, originally, the makers wanted him to have red skin.
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The Vulcan salute is a Hebrew blessing
The gesture represents the Hebrew letter, Shin — Shin also represents the word ‘Shaddai,’ which means ‘God’ in Hebrew.
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Mark Lenard plays multiple roles
Mark Lenard was the first actor in the franchise’s history to have played the roles of a Romulan, a Klingon, and a Vulcan.
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Stephen Hawking made a cameo
The only person to play himself in “Star Trek” was Stephen Hawking! He made a cameo in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.”
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Leonard Nimoy created the Vulcan salute
Not only did Leonard Nimoy bring Captain Spock to life, but he is also credited with creating the iconic Vulcan salute!
Why We Love First Contact Day
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There’s nothing like “Star Trek”
Watching “Star Trek” with our friends and family is a cherished memory for many of us. First Contact Day is a great way to express our love and admiration for this one-of-a-kind franchise!
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It’s a great way to learn about “Star Trek”
Even if you’re not a Trekkie or a sci-fi fan, First Contact Day is still a great way to learn about the franchise’s impact on pop culture over the decades.
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Celebrate however you want
First Contact Day means you and other Trekkies can dress up as your favorite characters, watch your favorite movies and films, or do a trivia quiz — there’s something for everyone!
First Contact Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 5 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | April 5 | Friday |
| 2025 | April 5 | Saturday |
| 2026 | April 5 | Sunday |
| 2027 | April 5 | Monday |
