About National Petroleum Day
August 27.
Since 1859.
On August 27, 1859, Edwin L. Drake drilled the first successful commercial oil well in Titusville, Pennsylvania — marking the birth of the modern petroleum industry. Every August 27th since, the world has been different because of it.
The Original Date
1859
August 27
The day Edwin L. Drake drilled the first successful commercial oil well in Titusville, Pennsylvania — changing the world forever.
1859
First Commercial
Oil Well Drilled
1920
First Well Drilled
in Permian Basin
Active Rigs
Permian Basin
102
7.2M
Barrels/Day
Expected 2026
Aug 27
National &
Local Holiday
The Origin of August 27th
The Day That Changed Everything.
National Petroleum Day is an annual celebration on August 27th that commemorates the 1859 discovery of the first commercial oil well drilled in Titusville, Pennsylvania, by Edwin L. Drake. The day recognizes the birth of the modern petroleum industry and its impact on industrial and technological progress.
National Petroleum Day is a powerful reminder of the people, progress, and petroleum that have helped fuel America's growth. It is a time to recognize the hardworking men and women — from roughnecks to rig engineers — who power the oil and gas industry every single day.
It is about honoring the roots of innovation, economic development, and the raw grit that built the Permian Basin into a global energy epicenter.
"Here in the Permian Basin, we honor the interdependence between oil and gas companies, nonprofits, educational institutions, and community organizations."
National Petroleum Day, Inc
Edwin L. Drake
First Commercial Oil Well · Titusville, PA · August 27, 1859
The Permian Basin Timeline.
A History of Energy
1859
Edwin L. Drake Drills the First Commercial Oil Well
Titusville, Pennsylvania — August 27, 1859. The modern petroleum industry is born. The world is never the same.
1920
First Well Drilled in the Permian Basin
The Permian Basin opens for production — beginning a century-long journey to become the largest oil-producing region in the United States.
1980s
Permian Basin Becomes a Global Energy Epicenter
Midland and Odessa grow into the energy capitals of West Texas. The Basin powers America through boom and bust cycles — always resilient, always essential.
2025
National Petroleum Day — Year One
The first National Petroleum Day celebration launches in Midland, Texas — bringing the Permian Basin energy community together for the first time to honor the industry's legacy and future.
2026
NPD 2026 — An Official City of Midland Local Holiday
National Petroleum Day becomes an official local holiday recognized by the City of Midland. August 27th at the Petroleum Club of Midland and the Wall Street Tailgate. Chevron. Senator Sparks. Jim Woodcock. The most celebrated night in Permian Basin energy history.
The Permian Basin
The Largest
Oil-Producing
Region in the US.
National Petroleum Day of the Permian Basin is more than just a celebration — it is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the oil and gas sector. From pioneering engineers and skilled workers to forward-thinking innovators, this day acknowledges the collective effort that powers our world.
Learn about our mission, the significance of the Permian Basin, and what makes National Petroleum Day one of the most important days for our community as we continue to reach milestones in the energy industry.
1920
First Well Drilled
232
ACTIVE RIGS
6.6M
B/D 2026
Our Mission
Honor.
Celebrate.
National Petroleum Day exists to honor the men and women of the oil and gas industry, celebrate the Permian Basin's extraordinary legacy, and invest in the community and future generations of energy professionals who will carry this work forward.
Honor the Industry
Recognize the hardworking men and women who power the oil and gas industry every single day.
Invest in Community
Support nonprofits, scholarships, and community organizations through the NPD event.
Celebrate Legacy
Honor the roots of innovation, economic development, and the grit that built the Permian Basin.
Build the Future
Inspire the next generation of Permian Basin energy professionals through education and recognition.