National Mac and Cheese Day
2026-07-14 | Spanning the Need, P.O. Box 2883, Youngstown, OH, 44511, United States
NATIONAL MAC AND CHEESE DAY | JULY 14
One of the classic comfort foods earns a place of honor on July 14th. It is National Mac and Cheese Day!
Celebrating National Mac and Cheese Day on July 14th

#NationalMacAndCheeseDay
Made with macaroni noodles, cream or milk, and the golden goodness of cheese, mac and cheese shines as a side dish while also standing on its own as a main dish. This meal reminds many of us of home while also teaching us the basics of the kitchen. What other recipes allow us to create so flamboyantly and often with so little knowledge about cooking?
From the classic mac and cheese with cheddar or American cheeses to the spicy cowboy mac with bacon and jalapenos, there’s a combination for everyone. Mix up the cheeses or load up on seasonings. It’s easy to get a toasty crust by setting the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Mac and cheese offers a multitude of ways to enjoy it, too. As a soup, it warms us up after a long day. Stuff it inside a meatloaf or a burger for a meal made for a hungry, busy family. Roll up bite-sized bits in bread crumbs and deep fry for mouthwatering appetizers. Put your favorite mac and cheese between two slices of crusty bread. Then put into a panini press for some grilled yumminess. Whether we like it mild or spicy, mac and cheese has us covered.

National Ice Cream Day
2026-07-19 | OH
NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY | THIRD SUNDAY IN JULY
Dish or cone? That’s all we need to know. National Ice Cream Day on the 3rd Sunday in July offers up every flavor on the menu to honor the day! The holiday also lands in the middle of National Ice Cream Month.
#NationalIceCreamDay
Thousands of years ago, people in the Persian Empire put snow in a bowl, poured concentrated grape juice over it, and ate it as a treat. Even when the weather was hot, they would savor this sweet treat. Their trick? They placed snow in underground chambers known as yakchal where the temperatures kept the snow from melting. The Persians also hiked to the mountain tops by their summer capital to gather snowfall.
https://spanningtheneed.com/2022/07/16/celebrating-national-ice-cream-day-on-july-16/
The Chinese, under the Tang Dynasty around 697 AD, took to freezing dairy with salt and ice. However, the results aren’t exactly the ice cream we enjoy today. Frozen treats and beverages later, culinary folks point to Naples, Italy as the birthplace of the first ice cream. They give credit to Antonio Latini. He was born in 1642 and created a milk-based sorbet.
In the United States, the Quaker colonists earn the nod for bringing their ice recipes over with them. They opened the first ice cream shops, including shops in New York and other cities during the colonial era.

National Love is Kind Day
2026-07-27 | OH
NATIONAL LOVE IS KIND DAY | July 27
Just as on July 4th Americans celebrate their independence, so is July 27th to be celebrated—a day to celebrate independence from the abuser. July 27th, National Love is Kind Day is the day to:

Celebrate for all victims of domestic violence/domestic abuse their FREEDOM and INDEPENDENCE from their abuser.
Recognize our right to be treated with KINDNESS. Because real love is kind, not terrorizing.
Realize that kindness is the path to healthy and safer relationships, families, society, and the world.
Give voice for and hope and support to others who are still suffering, often in silence.
Spread messages how we can be kind to one another, especially to those closest to us.
Remember that love is not abusive, violent, demeaning or dehumanizing. If someone uses love as an excuse for their hurtful behavior, it’s not real love.

With every generation, the cycle of abuse continues to cripple families, especially women and children who are most vulnerable. The cycle of abuse must stop now.
Celebrating National Love is Kind Day, Joyful and Productive Life on July 27th

#NationalLoveIsKindDay
National Love is Kind Day encourages you to become aware of how you are treating people, how people are treating you, and how you can become emboldened, supported, and empowered to lead the joyful and productive life you deserve. With improved and proper support, families can know and experience the freedom and love found in an abuse-free home. Children grow up with positive role models, and both adults and children lead more productive, happy, and mentally healthy lives.
The day is an opportunity to say “No to abuse, violence, and ridicule! And begin saying, “Yes, to kindness! And yes, to sharing my voice! Yes, I am worth it and my life matters. Kindness rules!”

National Cheesecake Day
2026-07-30 | OH
NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY | JULY 30
National Cheesecake Day on July 30th offers a slice of one of America’s favorite desserts. Order up a cheesecake with your favorite topping. Get it delivered or make it at home.
#NationalCheesecakeDay
This smooth dessert hits the spot when the end of the meal rolls around. While most cakes have a crumb, cheesecake’s texture is nothing like cake. Indeed, its creamy, thick pudding-like character comes from the soft cheese used as the main ingredient. Depending on the recipe, either cream cheese or cottage cheese is used. When the cheese is mixed with sugar, eggs, and other ingredients, the batter is added to a crust.
E53: Chef Chris Bonacci, Food trends, easy recipes & meal ideas to help you cook smarter for the Holidays

When making cheesecake, one of the most common crusts used is a graham cracker crust. Other options include a cookie crust, pastry or sponge cake. However, some cheesecakes are crustless. Recipes vary and cheesecakes may be prepared baked or unbaked.
When faced with choosing a cheesecake flavor, don’t panic. While the options may seem overwhelming, bakers solved this problem. They offer a variety of flavors in one cake. So, take one home and try each one. Since cheesecakes do come in a wide variety, consider your tastes. If you prefer summer fruits and berries, cheesecakes have you covered. Tropical options hit the spot, too. For coffee lovers, bakers provide a rich selection. And don’t forget delicious chocolate and nutty flavors. Each cheesecake may be served with fresh fruit, a sauce, whipped cream or plain.

National Father-in-Law Day
2026-07-30 | OH
NATIONAL FATHER-IN-LAW DAY | July 30
National Father-In-Law Day on July 30th recognizes your spouse’s father annually. Dedicate some time to your father-in-law on this day.
#FatherInLawDay
Fathers-in-law bring a new perspective to our lives. Whether we are a new addition to their families or made bonds a long time ago, they grow to have an honored place in our hearts. They are the patriarchs of our families. Whether they’ve built a reputation for being stubborn, softhearted or full of humor, these men stand as one cornerstone of a sheltering family tree.
During National Father-in-Law Day, celebrate the father-in-law in your life.
https://spanningtheneed.com/2022/07/30/celebrating-family-with-father-in-law-day-on-this-30th-of-july/

National Friendship Day
2026-08-02 | OH
Friendships come in many forms, and we begin developing them when we’re very young. Throughout our lives, friendships and their meanings evolve. Our classmates and neighborhood pals explored the world with us. Together we shared experiences and made plans for the future. Eventually, paths diverge and new friends find a place in our social experience. Our world expands and our culture changes.
With each new friend, we expand our view of the world. Their experiences contribute to new meaning in our lives. Through friendships, we grow and broaden our horizons. Eventually, the world becomes smaller and more connected.
Celebrating National Friendship Day on this Sunday

National Sister Day
2026-08-02 | OH
National Sisters Day on the first Sunday in August celebrates the unique bond between sisters. This particular set of siblings embrace moments that make them laugh and cringe. While they don’t always agree, sisters have each other’s backs.
#NationalSistersDay
All siblings have the odd argument here and there, but deep down there’s little way around the natural connection between siblings. Even those who don’t have a natural sister sibling know the bonds of sisterhood. Those who forge a relationship with their spouse’s sisters understand. Also, women who support each other through difficult times form a sisterhood.
Celebrating National Sister Day on this Sunday

A sister is like yourself in a different movie,
a movie that stars you in a different life. ~ Deborah Tannen
No two sisters are alike. From love interests to cars, sisters will disagree. And food, cleaning, and children require interventions. However, we rely on each other while privately envying a sister’s style, ability or grace. A sister understands when no one else does, sometimes when even you don’t. So, sister time provides vital healing.
Whether your sisters harrassed you from day one or found you later in life, this day brings you back together. Cherish the memories and make plans to create new ones. Reconnect or patch up any misunderstandings. Sisters are forever.

International Left Handers Day
2026-08-13 | OH
International Left Handers Day on August 13th recognizes all those individuals who have mastered using their left hand in a right-handed world. We take our hats off to you – left-handed!
#LeftHandersDay
Approximately 10% of the population are southpaws. Scientists don’t know why a person develops left-handedness. But it’s more likely a child will be left-handed if one parent is a lefty, too. Parents of left-handed children used to force them to use their right hands. In the eyes of right-handers, the predominant use of the left hand seemed evil. Parents feared their communities would shun their children. While we accept left-handedness more readily than days gone by, its occurrence hasn’t increased.
Famous Cartoonist Joe Wos, founder of mazetoons, states that his favorite day to celebrate is International Left Handers Day, being a lefty himself.
Celebrating International Left Handers Day this August
Famous Lefties
Many lefties seek to blend in because they will stand out soon enough. Their unique quality makes them feel awkward. They bump elbows or seem like a klutz. However, in a world designed for the right-handed, those who are other dominant adapt quite well. For example, eight United States presidents were left-handed, including Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Would the Sistine Chapel and the Mona Lisa stand the test of time if Michaelangelo and Leonardo de Vinci had been right-handed?
Uncommon Individual
Left Handers Day recognizes the uncommon individual who throws, catches, writes, and uses a fork with their left hand. They view the world just a little differently, too. At a restaurant, they seek out the seat that will place their dominant elbow on the outside of the booth. Right-handed athletes groan a bit when the southpaw shows up as an opponent on the roster. They present a challenge right-handers aren’t always sure how to handle due to lack of practice. And yet, lefties square off against righties all the time.

Don’t be shy on Left-Handers Day. Show the world how brilliant and unique you are!

National NonProfit Day
2026-08-17 | OH
On August 17th, National Nonprofit Day (NND) recognizes the goals and positive impacts nonprofits have on communities and the world.
#NationalNonprofitDay
Somewhere a volunteer reads to school children. At the same time, a patient receives steady medication. A lawyer provides legal services for low-income individuals. A lost soul’s life is remembered with dignity, thanks to a nonprofit funeral home. Elsewhere, a first-time homebuyer moves into his own home. NND reminds us that each of these scenes is possible thanks to the nonprofit sector. It’s the result of the work performed by capable people and organizations.
Jeffrey’s Journey Through COVID-19

Through nonprofits, awareness, research, and aid reach the people who need it most. Nonprofits also generate tremendous benefits to their surrounding communities and the broader world.
For example, following the recent U.S. recession in 2012, the nonprofit sector provided 5.4% of the nation’s entire GDP (gross domestic product), or $887.3 billion. Non-profits continuously employing nurses, web developers, lawyers, computer engineers, and more (sources: John Hopkins and Tactical Philanthropy Advisors reports).

National Puppy Day
2026-03-23 | OH
Observed each year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day celebrates the unconditional love and affection puppies bring to our lives. Their cuddles and wiggles make us smile and without a doubt, there are squeals of delight when there are puppies around!

#NationalPuppyDay
The day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a big responsibility. Be sure to consider everything involved and adopt from a shelter. The puppies there need love and a home just as much as any other and they grow into loyal pets, too!
According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. Some of these dogs come with litters of puppies. If you’re seeking a puppy to start your furry family, check the shelters first. When these abandoned and abused animals find their way to a shelter, each one needs a forever home and their potential is limitless.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PUPPY DAY

Use #NationalPuppyDay and post photos of your puppy on social media.
Go to the dog park and let your puppy play.
Pick up a special treat for your puppy.
Go for a walk with your young friend.

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National Cocktail Day
2026-03-24 | OH
Celebrate all your favorite cocktails on March 24th. National Cocktail Day ushers in all the best ways to savor a beverage at the end of a long workday. Whether you like a fruity drink, blended or on the rocks, this day is for you. Mocktail, virgin, or the real thing, celebrate the lemon, lime, bitters, liquors, and liqueurs that make your favorite beverages the best in your bartender book.

#NationalCocktailDay
It’s probably no surprise that nearly every month on the calendar celebrates a cocktail. The only exception is April, and since it’s National Alcohol Awareness Month, it makes sense to take that month off.

A cocktail contains a spirit or a mix of spirits. While a beer is not considered a cocktail, there are beer cocktails where beer is added to a distilled ingredient. The same applies to wine.
The other months pay homage to histories, ingredients, and the makers of some legendary cocktails. January begins the year dedicating a day to the Bloody Mary, and there’s also a day for her Canadian counterpart, the Bloody Caesar, in May. January also devotes an entire week to Mocktails. In February, you can celebrate the Margarita and Kahlua. March brings us International Whisk(e)y Day, among others. Skipping back to May, you can imbibe in both Palomas and Mimosas for your celebrations.

June & July
June and July compete for the most cocktail-related days. From Martinis and Bourbon in June to Pina Coladas and Daiquiris in July, the two months cover the spectrum. There are even a few bottles of wine in between. Not only do they celebrate specific cocktails but they also celebrate the places we enjoy them. National Dive Bar Day in July invites us to celebrate the places that serve our favorite cocktails, even if it’s an ice-cold beer.
The rest of the year covers all our chilled and heated cocktails. By December, we readily reminisce National Repeal Day and the Bartenders who keep that era and the skills alive.
We have only skimmed the surface of the cocktails celebrated on the calendar, so National Cocktail Day allows you to celebrate whichever one you like!

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL COCKTAIL DAY

Create your favorite cocktail to celebrate.
Explore cocktail ingredients or read a bartender’s manual.
Learn the finer elements of mixing cocktails and expand your home bar.
Visit a speakeasy or take a tour of your favorite distillery.
Host a cocktail tasting session. Create a classic menu with a professional bartender who provides history and describes the nuances behind the ingredients.
Attend a cocktail tasting party. You will learn more about how and why ingredients are combined the way they are.
Visit your local bookstore and pick up a cocktail or bar book. Follow the recipes and read about the histories these bartenders share. We recommend The Essential Bar Book by Jennifer Fielder, The Art and Science of The Perfect Cocktail by Janice Dreese, and Craft Cocktails at Home: Offbeat Techniques, Contemporary Crowd-Pleasers, and Classics Hacked with Science by Kevin Liu.
Visit your local bar and pick your bartender’s brain. Some like to share their techniques. Ask them what their favorite cocktail is. And, be sure to tip them well for their advice and service.
Try making a mocktail. Especially on those weeknights when work is busy, and you need to keep up. Many of them infuse nutrients many of us are lacking. Keep these recipes on hand for your friends who are designated drivers, sober for life, supporting a friend, or for any reason.
As always, ANY TIME we are indulging in spirits and alcohol, DON’T drink and drive. Designate a sober driver. Call a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or friend.
When you celebrate, share your favorites by using #NationalCocktailDay on social media.

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National Medal of Honor Day
2026-03-25 | OH
National Medal of Honor Day on March 25th recognizes all Medal of Honor recipients. The Medal of Honor is the highest military award for valor in the United States and was created in 1861.

#MedalOfHonorDay
On March 25, 1863, Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton presented the first Medals of Honor (Army) to six members of “Andrews Raiders” for their volunteering and participation during an American Civil War raid in April of 1862.
The Medal of Honor is awarded only to US military personnel by the President of the United States in the name of Congress for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
There are three versions of the Medal of Honor; one for the Army, one for the Navy, and one for the Air Force; Personnel of the Marine Corps and the Coast Guard receive the Navy version.
Since its creation, 3,468 Medals of Honor have been awarded to the country’s soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and coastguardsmen.

HOW TO OBSERVE MEDAL OF HONOR DAY

Some federal, state, local, and military organizations may hold events recognizing Medal of Honor recipients. These events may be public or private.
Volunteering for your local veteran organization
Donate to a veteran service organization
Adopt a Medal of Honor gravesite
Fly the U.S. flag at your home or business
Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Visit local memorial sites
Use #MedalOfHonorDay to post on social media.

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Manatee Appreciations Day
2026-03-25 | OH
Manatee Appreciation Day on the Last Wednesday in March focuses the world’s attention on an herbivore with no known natural enemy. Also known as the sea cow, manatees are a vulnerable species due to their contact with humans. Boating and pollution, as well as other external forces, threaten the manatee.

#ManateeAppreciationDay
These slow-moving herbivores inhabit slow rivers, canals, saltwater bays, estuaries, and coastal areas around the world. All three species of manatees are considered gentle giants, spending most of their time eating, sleeping, and traveling.

Amazonian – Inhabiting the Amazon River Basin in northern South America, this species lives exclusively in freshwater.
West Indian – This species includes two subspecies – the Florida Manatee and the Antillean manatee. The Florida manatee ranges from the Caribbean and up the coast of Florida toward North Carolina. They have also been spotted near Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. The West Indian manatee prefers slow-moving freshwater but is also found in saltwater, too.
African Manatee – Inhabiting both salt and freshwater, the West African manatee travels all along the West African coastline. While mostly a herbivore, the West African manatee also occasionally eats fish.

Manatees weigh between 300-540 kg (600-1200 lbs) and live up to 60 years. Spending most of their time underwater, unpolluted habitats are vital to their survival. While they do surface occasionally to replenish their oxygen, manatees can remain submerged for about 20 minutes at a time. When they do surface, they are capable of replenishing 90 percent of the air in their lungs. By comparison, humans only replace about 10 percent.

More Manatee Facts:

Belonging to the scientific order, Sirenia, they are also related to the dugong.
Manatees are related to the elephant.
Due to their immense size, they graze up to 8 hours a day.
Manatees continually replace their teeth. A new set is always growing behind the current set of teeth.

The observance aims to bring awareness to some of the manatees’ most significant challenges. Due to loss of habitat, pollution, hunting, and climate change, manatee numbers are declining. While conservation efforts have brought the manatee back from the brink of extinction, more must be done.
HOW TO OBSERVE MANATEE APPRECIATION DAY

Learn more about this amazing water mammal.
Support saving their habitat.
Take precautions while boating to prevent harming the manatee.
Read a book about manatees.
While celebrating National Manatee Appreciation Day, be sure to use #ManateeApprecicationDay to post on social media.

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National Vietnam Veterans Day
2026-03-29 | OH
National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29 honors the men and women who served and sacrificed during the longest conflict in United States history.

#VietnamWarVeteransDay
On March 29, 1973, combat and combat support units withdrew from South Vietnam. Generations later, Veterans of this time period are gaining the respect that was not so freely given upon their return. Involving five U.S. presidents, crossing nearly two decades and 500,000 U.S.military personnel, it left an indelible mark on the American psyche.
Returning veterans did not always receive respectful welcomes upon their arrival on American soil. Over 58,000 killed, never to return. The observance recognizes the military service of these men and women who answered the call to serve their country when she needed them. They didn’t make the decision to go to war.
Throughout National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we recognize the service and duty rendered by all servicemen and women of this era.

HOW TO OBSERVE VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY

Organizations across the country host events honoring National Vietnam War Veterans Day. These events include memorials, speeches, and luncheons honoring Vietnam veterans and their families.
Invite a veteran you know to join you or help organize an event.
Thank a Vietnam Veteran.
Buy them a drink or lunch.
Visit a local memorial. Volunteer to help organize events.
Support a veteran’s organization in your community. Volunteer and offer your skills.
Watch a Vietnam War documentary. Some films we found are The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick or Last Days in Vietnam directed by Rory Kennedy or Vietnam Nurses by Timeline.
Read about the Vietnam War. We recommend: Vietnam – A History by Stanley Karnow or They Marched into Sunlight: War and Peace, Vietnam and America, October 1967 by David Maraniss or The Quiet American by Graham Green and Robert Stone.
Send them a shout-out using #VietnamWarVeteransDay on social media.

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National Little Red Wagon Day
2026-03-25 | OH
On the last Wednesday in March, National Little Red Wagon Day celebrates the memories in the making and the ones already made. One iconic toy wields the power of imagination for adults and children alike as it brings us together to explore, laugh and play.

#LittleRedWagonDay
For nearly 100 years, Radio Flyer has been bringing smiles to kids of all ages and creating warm memories that last a lifetime. As a brand, Radio Flyer has always supported unstructured outdoor play and its positive impact on children. With their 100th anniversary on the horizon, Radio Flyer would like to establish a day that celebrates kids’ imaginations and the vehicles that help them explore it – their wagons.
This iconic toy is one of the most enduring toys of all time. For generations, children have led little red wagons down Independence Day parade routes, carried out infinite imaginary missions and voyages of childhood fantasy. It is not unusual for a little red wagon to be handed down from one generation to the next, treasured like a family heirloom. The adventures are enjoyed by all, regardless of age.

HOW TO OBSERVE LITTLE RED WAGON DAY
As the weather gets warmer and spring officially begins, use the day to encourage kids to get outside, get active and go wherever their imaginations take them. Use #LittleRedWagonDay and tag @RadioFlyer to share on social media.
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National Mom and Pop Business Owners
2026-03-29 | OH
National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day honors all small business owners each year on March 29th.

#MomAndPopBusinessOwnersDay
Small businesses are a vital part of the United States economy, and the critical role they play is sometimes overlooked. Consumers can show them their much-deserved appreciation by shopping locally and at small businesses.

Give gift cards from your favorite small businesses to encourage others to shop there.
Share their social media pages to improve their following.
Talk about them. Word of mouth advertising is some of the best advertising small businesses get.
Take their business cards and then recommend them to a friend.
Be a repeat customer. Remember small businesses are the ones who also support local events and schools, too.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are more than 27 million small businesses in the United States.
Owning your own business is a goal that many people strive to attain. It takes long hours, hard work, and much dedication. Countless hours of nurturing the business are needed to grow the business. From starting out to building and expanding, a successful small business is the goal of every owner.
Some of these Mom and Pop shops are handed down from one generation to the next while others are new start-ups. “Mom and Pop” businesses offer superior customer service as the owners take personal pride in their operations as well as pride in their communities.

HOW TO OBSERVE MOM AND POP BUSINESS OWNERS DAY

Support the privately owned small businesses in your communities by shopping and buying gift cards.
Explore your community. You might discover new businesses and become a new customer.
As you shop, give your favorite businesses a shout-out. Let them know you appreciate them and their services.
The National Day Calendar Classroom also has projects to help you Celebrate Every Day!
Read the Celebration Spotlight with Wesley Miller Smith.
Use #MomPopBusinessOwnersDay to post on social media.

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National Virtual Vacation Day
2026-03-30 | OH
When March 30th arrives, so does National Virtual Vacation Day, reminding us all to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate no matter where we are.

#VirtualVacationDay
Vacations restore our minds, bodies, and souls. For example, studies show that taking a vacation lowers the risk of heart disease. They also help hone our problem-solving skills and promote overall brain health. Furthermore, we’re more satisfied with the money spent on vacations than material goods.
However, virtual vacations do not require money, packing, or transcontinental flights. All you need to achieve a virtual vacation is your imagination and free VR apps or a VR headset.
If you can dream it, you can achieve a virtual vacation. Enjoy an exciting African safari. Or hike the exotic Amazon rainforest. Then hit the beach in Bali, or join in the festivities at Mardi Gras. Explore a space vacation if you dare! Adventurers to armchair travelers thrill at the possibilities.

HOW TO OBSERVE VIRTUAL VACATION DAY

Check out these VR tours to get you started.
While exploring, be sure to share your virtual vacation with others.
Take a tour of your favorite places and learn something along the way. Grab some snacks for the ride, too!
Learn more about virtual vacations. It’s easy, and you can learn ways to enjoy one at Terrance Talks Travel.
Share your favorite virtual holidays using #VirtualVacationDay to share on social media.

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National Take A Walk In The Park Day
2026-03-30 | OH
National Take A Walk In The Park Day on March 30th each year encourages us to stretch our legs on our favorite trail or at our neighborhood park. After a long busy day, a calming and therapeutic way to relax would be a nice, leisurely walk in the park.

#TakeAWalkInTheParkDay
Taking a walk at a local park is an excellent way to clear one’s mind from the stresses of the day, re-energize, and at the same time, improve health.
During a walk, the opportunity to capture a beautiful photograph, compose an original poem, or have an uninterrupted conversation may arise. The chance to lose track of time and run into a familiar face could occur, too. When taking a walk in the park, all sorts of pleasant surprises could blossom.

HOW TO OBSERVE TAKE A WALK IN THE PARK DAY

Go out for a walk in the park. Enjoy nature’s beauty and being outside.
Are you staying indoors? As an alternative, you can still take a walk in a park. Take a virtual walking tour. Stand up and walk along the Swiss Alps or just about anywhere in the world.
However, we suggest finding a trail somewhere and taking a hike in the fresh air.
Once you return, unwind with this fun word search puzzle.
Use #TakeAWalkInTheParkDay to post on social media.

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National Doctor Day
2026-03-30 | OH
On March 30th each year, National Doctors Day honors the professionals for their dedication and contributions to society and the community. Their dedication puts the patient first time and again. On National Doctors Day, we say “thank you” to our physicians for all that they do for us and our loved ones.

#NationalDoctorsDay
Healthcare today is more complex than ever. With more advancements, tools, and information at their fingertips, doctors have an overwhelming job to diagnose and treat their patients every day. This is the day to honor the ones who see us 365 days a year. In every city and hospital, in our military, and in our rural communities, doctors pave the way to better healthcare for their patients.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DOCTORS DAY

Take the opportunity to thank your physician for responding to late-night phone calls, working long hours, and providing unswerving care. Today, more than ever, we know the sacrifices they make to put the health of their communities first.
Share your experiences being a doctor. Your story may inspire someone to medicine as a career path.
For our younger followers, we’ve created a coloring page and a word puzzle for the day. You can find more activities in the National Day Calendar Classroom.
Use #NationalDoctorsDay to post on social media.

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National Crayon Day
2026-03-31 | OH
Each year, on March 31st children and adults alike, pick up their favorite colors for National Crayon Day. Opening up a box of crayons opens up a world of imagination and hours of fun.

#NationalCrayonDay
Wax and chalk-based crayons have been used by artists around the world for centuries. Edwin Binney created the brightly colored crayons we are familiar with today. He was part owner of Binney & Smith, a company that produced products such as paint, pigments, and slate pencils for schools.
In 1903, Binney & Smith created the Crayola Division and produced colored wax crayons for children for the first time. Then in 1904, they presented their An-Du-Septic chalk at the Colombian Exposition in St. Louis winning a gold medal. The chalk was designed to be dustless at many teachers’ requests and was an immediate success.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CRAYON DAY

Get out your crayons and color away! We’ve provided three color pages for all age levels for you to download and print. We would love to see your final creations!
Post them to our Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages, and we’ll definitely respond.
Celebrate Every Day (Easy)
National Crayon Day (Medium)
Yin and Yang (Hard)
Gather your crayons and create some original art.
Show off your crayon collections!
Share your favorite colors.
Visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for more coloring projects.
Use #NationalCrayonDay to share on social media.

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April Fools Day
2026-04-01 | OH
April Fools’ Day on April 1st has long been a day when practical jokes and tricks are played on the unaware. It’s a time when children convince their parents they’ve broken a bone. Parents get in on the planning, too. Classic April Fools’ jokes include caramel covered onions or fake doggy doo-doo in inconvenient places. Businesses launch impractical or unbelievable products for the fun of the day and newspapers print incredible headlines catching readers off guard.

#AprilFoolsDay
Of course, the trick to a good April Fools’ prank is planning. And you also need to be the first to pull it off. There’s no point in pursuing your prank if someone else beats you to it. Once the foolery has been triggered, everyone else will be on high alert and the element of surprise will be lost.
Some practical jokers go to great lengths to pull off their ruse. The more people involved the greater the risk of being discovered before the great plan can be deployed.

HOW TO OBSERVE APRIL FOOLS’ DAY

Prepare your best pranks and practical jokes.
Share stories of your greatest April Fools’ jokes.
Be safe playing your pranks and be sure to have a good laugh. It’s all in fun.
Share your experiences being fooled and laugh while you reminisce.
Use #AprilFoolsDay to post on social media.

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National Love Our Children Day
2026-04-04 | OH
National Love Our Children Day on the first Saturday in April focuses on raising awareness on child abuse during National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This day honors all children and encourages us to develop loving, respectful relationships with our children.

#NationalLoveOurChildrenDay
Child abuse and neglect affect an estimated 700,000 children each year in the United States. Of these, the youngest are the most vulnerable. In 2015 in the United States, statistics from the U.S. Administration for Children & Families estimate that 1,670 children died as a result of abuse and neglect.
Prevention of child abuse is vital to every child’s mental and physical health. Any abuse they experience carries life-long consequences and impacts their quality of life as adults. The day focuses on the prevention of child abuse and violence against children. It also is a day to bring awareness, resources, and support tools to communities.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL LOVE OUR CHILDREN DAY

Every child deserves to live in a safe and supportive environment. Take time to make the life of a child better.
Educate yourself on the prevention of child abuse.
Are you looking for free and inexpensive ways to show love to a child? Read 9 Ways to Love Your Children.
Use #NationalLoveOurChildrenDay to share on social media.

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World Autism Awareness Day
2026-04-02 | OH
World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), on April 2nd each year shines a bright light on a growing global health crisis.

#WorldAutismAwarenessDay or #WAAD
According to the National Autism Association, Autism affects 1 in 59 children. The bio-neurological developmental disability usually presents itself by the age of three, and it is more prevalent in boys than girls.
As children with autism grow older, they face all sorts of obstacles. Because many don’t speak or use social cues as you or if do, they become targets for bullies or are excluded altogether. Children with autism are also vulnerable to drowning because they wander from their homes and schools. Due to their inability to communicate, they cannot tell someone their name or where they live, either. Additionally, adults are more likely to be unemployed or underemployed.
However, resources are available for families and schools to help keep children safe and to support them lead happy and healthy lives. Visit the National Autism Association website for resources, guides, and tips for families and schools.
The day also focuses on the growing need for programs designed to support those with autism now and in the future.

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY

Host an event supporting autism awareness.
Attend an event and show your support for someone you know.
Share your story and make your voice heard.
While the day also celebrates the stories and lives of those with autism, it’s also important to remember that autism is a lifelong condition with varying degrees of severity. It’s important to continue to support research for treatment and therapies that will improve the lives of those with autism.
Speak out about autism to help eliminate the stigma associated with it.
And use #WorldAutismDay to share on social media.

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National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day
2026-04-02 | OH
On April 2nd each year, National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day celebrates a classic food favorite. The average American will have eaten over 2000 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by the time they graduate from high school.

#PeanutButterAndJellyDay
Peanut butter was considered a delicacy in the early 1900s and was only served in New York City’s finest tea rooms. In a May 1896 article published in the Good Housekeeping magazine, a recipe “urged homemakers to use a meat grinder to make peanut butter and spread the result on bread.” That same year, in June, the culinary magazine Table Talk, published a “peanut butter sandwich recipe.”
It is thought that Julia Davis Chandler issued the first reference to peanut butter (or paste) paired with jelly on bread in the United States in 1901. Her article is found in the Boston Cooking School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics. In the late 1920s, the price of peanut butter declined, and the sandwich became very popular with children.
According to the Peanut Board, during World War II, both peanut butter and jelly were part of the United States soldiers’ military ration list.
In 1968, The J.M. Smucker Co. introduced Goober, a jarred product that combined alternating vertical stripes of peanut butter and jelly.

HOW TO OBSERVE PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY DAY

Eat something with peanut butter and jelly.
It may be a good day to try something different. The following are a few peanut butter and jelly ideas to help you out!

Cupcakes
French Toast
Pie
Sushi
Cookies
Donuts
Pancakes
Fudge

We’ve also created a hidden picture puzzle. Find the hidden peanuts in the picture. We’ve included the key if you think you’ve found them all.
Also, we turned the image into a coloring page. Download and print it off. Have fun! Use #PeanutButterAndJellyDay to post on social media.

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National Education and Sharing Day
2026-04-02 | OH
National Education and Sharing Day is observed annually on the 11th day of the month of Nisan on the Jewish calendar – or 4 days before Passover begins.

#EducationAndSharingDay
In his 2009 proclamation on Education and Sharing Day, President Barack Obama wrote:
“Few have better understood or more successfully promoted these ideas than Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who emphasized the importance of education and good character. Through the establishment of educational and social service institutions across the country and the world, Rabbi Schneerson sought to empower young people and inspire individuals of all ages. On this day, we raise his call anew.”
On March 21, 2013, while making his first trip to Israel as president, a proclamation was issued, and President Barack Obama declared March 22, 2013, Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A. That year was the 111th anniversary of the birth of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. Reinforcing the importance of education, in this proclamation, the President stated:

“We also know that learning does not stop when students leave the classroom. Whether at the dinner table or on the field, it is our task as parents, teachers, and mentors to make sure our children grow up practicing the values we preach. We have an obligation to instill in them the virtues that define our national character — honesty and independence, drive and discipline, courage and compassion.”
HOW TO OBSERVE EDUCATION AND SHARING DAY

Learn about the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.
Demonstrate how education and sharing is universally important.
Use #EducationAndSharingDay to post on social media.

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World Party Day
2026-04-03 | OH
World Party Day on April 3rd encourages a coordinated effort of joyful human celebration around the globe.

#WorldPartyDay
The world gathers to celebrate for many reasons. Forming a party often includes food, beverages, music, games, and other festivities. Hosts often create a theme or the theme generates the party. Several common modern-day party themes include bachelor and bachelorette, birthday, retirement, anniversary, graduation and welcome home. Many other party themes focus on specific foods.
In our modern world, parties can also be virtual. We don’t always have to gather in the same location to celebrate a specific event or day. Technology brings us together through video and the internet allowing us to connect long-distance and celebrate all our favorite ways.
The novel Flight: A Quantum Fiction Novel, by Vanna Bonta published in 1995, which concludes with a synchronized worldwide celebration that occurs on April 3, 2000, is the inspiration for World Party Day. Gatherings can be small or large organized festivals.

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD PARTY DAY

Where ever you are, celebrate with friends and family. Pick a theme that best fits the day. We’ve created a list of fun ideas to invite friends to join you virtually. Go online and create a video chat or an event on social media to share your party.

Make your own pizza party – Everyone makes their own creative pizza. Share the recipe with other party participants.
Movie night party – Pick a movie that all your party invitees will be watching. Pop popcorn and grab your drinks. Everyone starts the movie at the same time and lets the comments fill the online event page.
Trivia party night – Play online trivia in a video chat with friends and family.
Dance party – Challenge friends to record their best dance moves and share them with each other.
Game party – Hook up the gaming systems and invite friends and family to join you in the virtual world of games.
Art party – Do it Bob Ross style and invite a local artist to demonstrate techniques for a group of your friends all through the power of the internet. Schedule your events around their already scheduled ones to show your support and appreciation.
Take-out party – Pick your favorite restaurants and do a take-out party. Pick just appetizers or your favorite desserts. Everyone meet back at your respective homes and tune in to the event to share where you ordered from. Celebrate good times and good friends while giving a shout-out to the restaurants you love the most!

Join the crowd and use #WorldPartyDay to share on social media.

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National Final Rainbow Day
2026-04-03 | OH
Each year on April 3rd, National Find a Rainbow Day challenges us to look to the sky and find a colorful ray of hope cast across it.

#FindARainbowDay
There are people that see rainbows as an artistic masterpiece in the sky, to others it is a sign of hope and to many a sign of promise.
It can be all three; beauty, hope and promise. (Jill Magnus)

A spectrum of light in the form of a multicolored arc, appearing in the sky, is caused by both reflection and refraction of light in water droplets in the Earth’s atmosphere. These rainbows always appear directly opposite of the sun. The light is refracted (bent) when it enters a droplet of water, then is reflected inside on the back of the droplet and refracted again when leaving it.
Red is the color that is visible on the outer part of a rainbow and violet on the inside of a primary rainbow. Children learn in science class the mnemonic ROYGBIV to help them to remember the sequence of colors in a rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. Many forms of airborne water can cause rainbows including, rain, mist, spray, and dew.

HOW TO OBSERVE FIND A RAINBOW DAY

Find yourself a rainbow or use the garden hose or a prism to make one yourself.
Families, students, and classrooms, create a rainbow from the colorful hearts on this printable. There’s at least one for every color in the rainbow. Take out your color crayons and finish what we’ve started.
Then cut them out and put them in a cheerful, sunny window to brighten the day of someone passing by.
Create a rainbow as part of a science project.
Use #NationalFindARainbowDay to post on social media.

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National Hug a Newsperson Day
2026-04-04 | OH
National Hug a Newsperson Day (formerly National Hug a Newsman Day) on April 4th encourages appreciation for the people reporting the news.
Writing, Photography paves Kinsman Woman’s road to Success
#HugANewspersonDay
The Merriam-Webster dictionary tells us that the word “newsman” dates back to 1596. They have been working hard for many years to bring us the news from around the world.
A few well-known newspersons include:

Tom Brokaw
Barbara Walters
David Brinkley
Katie Couric
Walter Cronkite
Ann Curry
Lester Holt
Peter Jennings
Connie Chung

Your local newsperson reports on the days’ events in your community. They keep you informed of important political news, businesses in your community, weather, traffic, crime, and education updates. When it comes to the national news, the local news reporters apply local perspectives. While events may happen thousands of miles away, a local newsperson knows it impacts their views still.
On the national and world scale, a newsperson may travel far and wide for the complete story. Some are attached to certain regions of the world, specializing in political, economic or health news. Wherever they report from, they bring the news into our homes, cars, businesses or where ever we may be. They keep us informed of the ever-changing world around us.
Who was the “YSU SUPER FAN”…The Tribute
HOW TO OBSERVE HUG A NEWSPERSON DAY

Hug a newsperson. (Ask for permission first.)
If you aren’t able to hug your newsperson, you can send them a virtual one.
You can also download our coloring page. When you’re finished coloring it, send it to your favorite newsperson to show them how much you appreciate them.
Or solve the word search puzzle we created for the day using common news words.
Use #HugANewspersonDay to post on social media.

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First Contact Day
2026-04-05 | OH
First Contact Day on April 5th commemorates a fictional date in the future when an alien species visits Earth and makes contact with Earthlings for the first time.

#FirstContactDay
While the fictional date of 2063 is less than half a generation away, mere humans contemplate the possibilities the further we explore space. Not only do the modern explorers keep our interests piqued, but the science fiction genre continues to pour out stories that thrill and excite us.
One of science fiction’s common themes depicts the first meeting between humans and extraterrestrials. Conspiracy theories surround Area 51, but a popular one speculates that first contact was made there. UFOs often stir up theories about the first contact, too. The earliest documented sighting of a UFO took place in 1639 and was recorded by the governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, John Winthrop.
While celebrating the first contact could mean many things, this celebration focuses on one kind – the Vulcan/humankind meeting. That’s right. It’s a “final frontier” kind of celebration.

HOW TO OBSERVE FIRST CONTACT DAY

Brush up on your Star Trek history before you board the U.S.S. Enterprise. Actually, you’ll need to study a little more recent history of sorts.
In any case, here are some ideas for your celebration.

Attend a first contact re-enactment party
Practice your Vulcan greeting
Watch the film Star Trek: First Contact
Visit Bozeman, Montana
Share your first contact stories
Participate in online celebrations
Play the song “A Magic Carpet Ride”
Download and print the day’s coloring page.

Use #FirstContactDay to share your experiences and to join the conversation on social media.

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National Walking Day
2026-04-01 | OH
The first Wednesday in April is National Walking Day and it encourages Americans of all ages to get out and stretch their legs and get their hearts pumping. The American Heart Association sponsors this day to remind people about the health benefits of taking a walk. Wear your sneakers (or take them with you) to work, and at some point in the day, take a 30-minute walk.

#NationalWalkingDay
Here are some great ways to make that 30-minutes more enjoyable:

Wear comfortable clothes.
Take a friend to pass the time.
Make sure to stretch those muscles.
Drink plenty of water.
Move your arms, too.
Make sure you have good posture.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WALKING DAY

Take thirty minutes out of your day to go for a walk.
Find a trail near you or walk around your neighborhood.
You can also visit a local park or walk on your treadmill.
Take your canine pals with you, too. They need the cardiovascular workout, too!
When the family has finished their walk around the block or park, complete this fun word search puzzle.
Use #NationalWalkingDay to post on social media.

Do you need some visual inspiration while walking on the treadmill? Take this walk along the beach.
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