What is celebrated on June 18 in Ukraine and the world
Kyiv • UNN
On June 18, Ukraine honors precinct police officers and observes Autistic Pride Day. The world celebrates International Sushi Day, International Picnic Day, and Sustainable Gastronomy Day.

This day combines an important Ukrainian professional holiday, global initiatives for the protection of neurodivergent people and food ecology, as well as several pleasant gastronomic events, UNN reports.
District Police Officer Day
A professional holiday for law enforcement officers who work directly with the population in their communities. It is the district officers who are the first to respond to citizens' appeals, and are responsible for crime prevention and maintaining public order in their assigned territory. The holiday was established back in 2004 and later adapted to the modern structure of the National Police of Ukraine.
Sustainable Gastronomy Day
An official United Nations holiday established in 2016. Its goal is to draw attention to how food is grown, supplied, and consumed. Sustainable gastronomy calls for supporting local farmers, choosing seasonal products, conserving natural resources, and minimizing food waste.
Autistic Pride Day
An important initiative launched in 2005 by the organization Aspies For Freedom. Unlike April's Autism Awareness Day, which is often initiated by medical and charitable institutions, this holiday was created by people with autism spectrum disorders themselves. Its main message: autism is not a disease to be "cured," but a neurodivergence that is part of human diversity.
International Picnic Day
One of the most beloved summer holidays. It is the perfect excuse to grab a blanket, a basket of treats, and head with family or friends to the nearest park or forest to enjoy food in the fresh air.
International Sushi Day
A gastronomic holiday that unites fans of Japanese cuisine around the world. A great reason to visit your favorite establishment or try rolling sushi yourself.
International Panic Day
An unusual, humorous holiday with a psychological subtext. It serves as a reminder that keeping stress bottled up inside is harmful. On this day, it is officially permitted to "let off steam," acknowledge your fears, and panic a little, only to then breathe a sigh of relief and return to a calm life.
Thursday of the Apostles' Fast (Petrivka)
The second week of the summer fast continues. According to church statutes, on Thursday, believers are allowed a certain relaxation: they can consume hot food with the addition of vegetable oil (boiled vegetables, porridges, soups), as well as a little wine, but fish and meat and dairy products remain prohibited.
Commemoration Day of the Martyr Leontius
According to the new (Revised Julian) calendar, this day honors Leontius—a Roman military commander of Greek origin who served in Phoenicia in the 1st century. He openly practiced Christianity and helped the poor, for which he was arrested and suffered a martyr's death.