Invite an Alien to Live with You Day – Jul. 21, 2026

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day
Categories:
Tags:
AmericanPop CultureWeird National
Where:
United States
Date change rule:
Every July 21
Holiday emoji:
👽

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day beams down every July 21, celebrating the beloved sitcom ‘Mork & Mindy.’ This quirky holiday encourages us to ponder life beyond Earth and imagine the hilarious adventures of hosting an extraterrestrial. Get ready to explore new perspectives, embrace the weird, and maybe even learn a few Orkan phrases.

Want to sponsor Invite an Alien to Live with You Day? Learn how

Expected Invite an Alien to Live with You Day Deals

While official ‘alien welcoming’ promotions are rare, expect some brands to embrace the quirky spirit of Invite an Alien to Live with You Day. Look for deals on sci-fi movies and TV shows from streaming services like Netflix and Max, or discounts on alien-themed merchandise from retailers such as Hot Topic and Spencer’s. Fast-food chains like Taco Bell might offer themed specials, playing on their past Area 51 marketing. Keep an eye out for special offers from toy companies like Funko or Mattel on collectible figures. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as July 21 approaches.

Platform Guide for Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #InviteAnAlien. Share your imaginative alien roommate scenarios or Mork & Mindy cosplay.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #AlienDay. Post photos of your favorite sci-fi alien characters or creative alien-themed crafts.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #MorkAndMindy. Share your favorite quotes from the show or discuss potential alien visitor etiquette.

Social Media Tips for Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

Individuals

Watch an episode of 'Mork & Mindy,' or your favorite alien movie. Consider what you'd teach an alien about human culture, or what questions you'd ask them.

Creators

Produce a short sketch or video series imagining an alien living in your home. Showcase their attempts to understand human customs, food, or technology for comedic effect.

Brands

Launch a social media campaign asking followers to share their 'alien roommate application' or design a limited-edition product with an extraterrestrial theme.

Top Brands for Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

  1. Netflix

    Founded in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph, Netflix began as a DVD-by-mail service. Today, it's a global streaming giant with a vast library of sci-fi content, including popular alien-themed shows and movies.

  2. Disney

    The Walt Disney Company, founded in 1923, is a global entertainment conglomerate. Through franchises like Star Wars and Marvel, Disney has introduced countless iconic alien characters and stories to audiences worldwide.

  3. Funko

    Founded in 1998 by Mike Becker, Funko is known for its pop culture collectibles, especially the Pop! Vinyl figures. They produce numerous alien and sci-fi themed figures, perfect for fans of extraterrestrial visitors.

  4. Taco Bell

    Founded in 1962 by Glen Bell, Taco Bell is an American fast-food chain specializing in Mexican-inspired cuisine. Known for its quirky marketing, the brand has previously engaged in Area 51-themed promotions, aligning with alien lore.

  5. NASA

    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, established in 1958, is the U.S. government agency responsible for the civilian space program and aeronautics and aerospace research. NASA continues to search for signs of extraterrestrial life.

  6. Paramount+

    Paramount+ is a streaming service from Paramount Global, launched in 2014 as CBS All Access and rebranded in 2021. It is the home of the Star Trek franchise, which features a vast universe of alien species and intergalactic diplomacy.

  7. Hot Topic

    Founded in 1989 in Westminster, California, Hot Topic is a retail chain specializing in pop culture-inspired clothing, accessories, and merchandise. They often carry a wide range of sci-fi and alien-themed apparel and collectibles.

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day Hero

Mork

Mork, an alien from the planet Ork, was famously portrayed by Robin Williams in the sitcom 'Mork & Mindy.' Sent to Earth to study humans, his bumbling attempts to understand our customs provided endless comedic moments. Mork's catchphrase 'Nanu Nanu' and his unique Orkan greetings became pop culture staples, inspiring this very holiday.

History of Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

“Mork & Mindy” is an American television sitcom whose first episode aired on A.B.C. on September 14, 1978. It was created as a spin-off show following a highly successful episode of the comedy show “Happy Days.”

Mork first appears in the season five episode “My Favorite Orkan” of “Happy Days” in February 1978 and is a take on the 1960s sitcom “My Favorite Martian.” This was around the time when “Star Wars” had been released and the show wanted to feature a spaceman to capitalize on the popularity of the film which was — and still is — all the rage.

Williams’ character, Mork attempts to take Richie Cunningham back to his home planet Ork as a specimen but is foiled by Fonzie. In the first broadcast it turned out to be a dream of Richie’s, but when Mork proved so popular, the version was later re-edited to show Mork performing a classic memory wipeout and erasing the experience from everyone’s minds.

The character of Mork was played by the then-unknown Williams who garnered praise and attention for his portrayal of the alien. The now-iconic actor immediately impressed producers and viewers with his undeniable comedic ability.

According to a popular anecdote, when Williams was asked to take a seat at the audition, he sat on his head and producer Garry Marshall cast him on the spot. Marshall later commented that Williams was the only alien who auditioned.

Storylines are usually centered around Mork’s attempts to understand human behavior and American culture, while Mindy helps him adjust to life on Earth.

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day timeline

1977
Star Wars is Released

The release of “Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope” creates a new generation of science fiction lovers.

1978
Mork Arrives

The first episode of “Mork & Mindy” airs on September 14 on A.B.C.

1982
The Show Ends

The sitcom’s last episode airs on May 27, bringing the iconic show to an end.

1979
Robin Williams Makes It Big

Williams becomes a household name and even appears on the March 12, 1979, cover of “Time Magazine.”

How Businesses Can Celebrate Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

Local businesses can embrace Invite an Alien to Live with You Day by creating out-of-this-world experiences. Restaurants might offer ‘alien-themed’ menu items or cocktails with quirky names. Retailers could host a ‘best alien costume’ contest or offer discounts on sci-fi merchandise. Even service-based businesses could run social media campaigns asking customers to share their favorite alien movie or TV show, fostering a fun, community-driven celebration.

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day FAQs

When is Invite an Alien to Live with You Day?

In 2026, Invite an Alien to Live with You Day falls on Tuesday, July 21. It’s the perfect mid-week excuse to celebrate all things extraterrestrial.

How many people believe in alien life?

According to a 2021 Gallup poll, approximately 41% of Americans believe in UFOs, while an even higher percentage believe in the existence of extraterrestrial life. This suggests a widespread fascination with the possibility of alien visitors.

How popular is the science fiction genre?

Science fiction remains one of the most popular genres across film, television, and literature, consistently generating billions in box office revenue and dominating streaming platforms. Its themes of exploration and future possibilities resonate with a vast audience.

What is the origin of Invite an Alien to Live with You Day?

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day originated as a tribute to the classic American sitcom ‘Mork & Mindy,’ which first aired in 1978. The show, starring Robin Williams as Mork, an alien from Ork, and Pam Dawber as his human roommate Mindy, inspired this quirky observance.

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day Activities

  1. Watch “Mork & Mindy”

    Grab a tub of coke and popcorn and binge-watch this hilarious sitcom that’s guaranteed to make you laugh. Done with all the four seasons? Time to watch them again!

  2. Enjoy Robin Williams’ work

    Watch the hundreds of amazing TV shows and movies that the award-winning legendary Williams has been a part of. Let’s celebrate this beloved icon’s life.

  3. Have an alien party

    Throw an alien-themed party and invite all your family and friends. Dress up as an alien and encourage your friends to wear a wacky outfit. Get creative with the drinks, snacks, and decor!

5 Facts About “Mork & Mindy” That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. The house is a landmark

    Mork & Mindy’s residence in the show is a real place in Boulder, Colorado, and is now a popular tourist destination.

  2. Williams and Dawber reunited in 2014

    Fans who were starved of the Williams-Dawber duo were in for a treat when the actress made an appearance on Williams’ show “The Crazy Ones” in 2014.

  3. There was supposed to be another season

    The fourth season ends with the duo stranded in prehistoric times thanks to time-traveling shoes. Season five planned to add an educational aspect with the two using the shoes to meet important historical figures.

  4. Williams found out about the cancelation late

    Williams found out the show was canceled when he read about it in “Variety.”

  5. Inspired by The Dick Van Dyke Show

    While “Mork & Mindy” is a spinoff of “Happy Days,” the character in the latter show was inspired by an episode of The Dick Van Dyke show called “It May Look Like a Walnut.”

Why We Love Invite an Alien to Live with You Day

  1. It gave us Robin Williams

    The show provided a launchpad for everyone’s favorite actor Robin Williams, who is adored by millions around the world for his comedic abilities and wide range as an actor. When we watch, it’s hard not to see why.

  2. It’s fun

    Simply put, “Mork & Mindy” is the kind of show you can watch with your family at the end of a long tiring day because you know it’ll always put a smile on your face. Try it out! It may become your new favorite.

  3. It left a mark on pop culture

    Despite only running for four seasons, the show’s language (‘shazbot’ and ‘nanu nanu’) and fashion (the gorgeous rainbow suspenders) left a mark on pop culture for years to come. See what references you can spot that still hold up to today’s pop culture.

Invite an Alien to Live with You Day dates

Year Date Day
2026 July 21 Tuesday
2027 July 21 Wednesday
2028 July 21 Friday
2029 July 21 Saturday
2030 July 21 Sunday