Spanning the Need: Good News, Inspiring, the Uninspired.

National Supreme Sacrifice Day
2026-03-18
On March 18th, National Supreme Sacrifice Day honors those who have made tremendous sacrifices for the sake and the good of others as well as those who sacrifice their lives every day for us.

#SupremeSacrificeDay
We may most readily call to mind the men and women in uniform who have laid down their lives protecting their country and communities. This day also honors those who may have stepped forward during times of crisis to rescue a stranger or a neighbor and gave the supreme sacrifice that day.
These sacrifices come in many forms. We don’t always recognize them when we see them, nor do we always expect them. Like in the case of one young Miner who saved the lives of 11-year-old Emmet and 8-year-old Myrdith when the sleigh they were in overturned during a blizzard so fierce they couldn’t see their house, though they were only 200 yards away. Wind howling so loudly, they couldn’t hear their father’s voice calling to them. On March 15, 1920, they’d set home from school in rural North Dakota and been caught up in the blizzard. Their 16-year-old sister, Hazel Miner protected her siblings with her body, keeping the blankets in place over her siblings through the night. Hazel Miner died that night, but her actions saved her siblings’ lives.
These sacrifices don’t always come in uniform and are often unsung. Often, these heroes step up when we least expect it and when we need it most.

HOW TO OBSERVE SUPREME SACRIFICE DAY

Honor someone who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Visit with their families, support them and the people in uniform who place their lives on the line, daily.
Visit a local memorial and learn the names of local heroes.
Participate in events around your state that support the military and first responders.
Use #SupremeSacrificeDay to post on social media.

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National Awkward Moments Day
2026-03-18
On March 18th, we recognize National Awkward Moments Day. This is an annual day that every person can relate to. We have all had our awkward moments from time to time. They are a part of life; they just happen.

#AwkwardMomentsDay
Awkwardness or embarrassment is defined as an emotional state of intense discomfort with oneself.
Have you ever called someone by the wrong name, tripped over nothing, walked into a door, had the completely wrong words come out of your mouth, or just forgotten what you were doing? The list could go on and on. Sometimes, things just do not seem to go right and something happens that may make you feel like you want to run and hide. No matter the day, today, or any other day, everyone has them.

HOW TO OBSERVE AWKWARD MOMENTS DAY

Find the ability to laugh at yourself, see the humor in awkward moments and have fun with them.
Relive old awkward moments by telling stories about them. Laugh over them and enjoy the memory.
Help someone else recover from an awkward moment. They may be embarrassing at first. However, the humor in these moments shows just how human we can be.
Keep in mind that no one is perfect, ever.
Wear humility like a cloak and laugh at yourself.
Use #AwkwardMomentsDay to post on social media.

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World Social Work Day
2026-03-17
World Social Work Day on the third Tuesday in March recognizes the hard work and dedication of social workers. A global organization of social workers comes together for social justice, human rights, and social development all through the promotion of best practices in social work.

#WSWD
Social workers serve many roles in their communities. They assess their client’s needs and challenges. As advocates, they speak for their clients, getting them access to the resources they need to improve their lives. Social workers also respond to crisis situations.
They work in many settings, too. Social workers find positions in medical facilities, child welfare and human service agencies, and schools. They can also work in education, teaching new social workers.
World Social Work Day celebrates the achievements of social work globally and locally. It also recognizes the efforts of individuals who’ve chosen social work as a profession.

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD SOCIAL WORK DAY

Be sure to give a shout-out to social workers in your community.
If you’re a social worker, share your experience.
Attend a job fair and encourage future social workers.
If you’re interested in becoming a social worker, learn more about their educational path.
To find out more visit ifsw.org.
And use #WSWD on all your social media posts throughout this day.

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St. Patrick Day
2026-03-17
St. Patrick’s Day kicks off a worldwide celebration also known as the Feast of St. Patrick. On March 17th, many will wear green in honor of the Irish and decorate with shamrocks. According to lore, the wearing of the green tradition dates back to a story written about St. Patrick in 1726. St. Patrick (c. AD 385–461) used the shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity and worn green clothing. And while the story is unlikely to be true, many will revel in the Irish heritage and eat traditional Irish fare, too.

#StPatricksDay
In the United States, St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated since before the country was formed. At times, the holiday has been a bit more of a rowdy one, with green beer, parades, and talk of leprechauns. However, in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day takes on a more solemn mood. It wasn’t until events in the United States broadcast in Ireland that some of the Yankee ways spread across the pond. One Irish-American tradition not common to Ireland is corned beef and cabbage.
HOW TO OBSERVE ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Wear green.
Read up about St. Patrick’s Day.
Cook up an Irish feast!
Use #StPatricksDay to post on social media.

Check out this delicious Reuben Casserole from #holidayfoodies. You won’t regret it!

National Panda Day
2026-03-16
On March 16, National Panda Day draws attention to one of the world’s unique bears. Pandas are also one of the world’s most endangered and adored animals. Conservationists and animal lovers alike spread the word about the increasing efforts of the international community dedicated to protecting and restoring habitats.

#NationalPandaDay
Native to China, giant pandas are members of the Bear (Ursidae) family. Their rapidly shrinking habitat is a major cause for concern. As an endangered species, successful panda breeding programs are rare. In the wild, there are approximately only 1,864 (according to the World Wide Fund for Nature) and 100 living in zoos around the world.
With their white face and black eyes and body, panda bears are easily identifiable. However, their black and white coloring was designed for their natural habitat. They disappear into the snowy mountains and temperate forests of southwest China. And despite their sweet disposition, they tend to isolate themselves in the wild. They eat mostly plants and do not hibernate in the winter like many other bears.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PANDA DAY

Share your love for pandas! You can do that by learning more about them and supporting panda sanctuaries.
Promote ways to protect their shrinking habitat.
Support breeding and research programs.
Watch a documentary about pandas.

Director Lu Chuan filmed Born in China. It follows not only a panda family but also golden savvy monkeys and the snow leopard.
Drew Fellman and David Douglas direct Pandas. Researchers from the Chengdu Research Base for Giant Panda Breeding seek to take the program to a whole new level. Actress Kristen Bell narrates.

Use #NationalPandaDay on social media.

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Youngstown Phantoms vs. Dubuque Fighting Saints
2026-03-14 18:05, 2026-03-13 19:05 (America/New_York) | Covelli Centre, 229 East Front Street, Youngstown, OH, 44503, United States
The Youngstown Phantoms take on the Dubuque Fighting Saints at the Covelli Centre on Friday, March 13 (Billet/Parent Night) at 7:05pm; and Saturday, March 14 (St. Patrick’s Day Game) at 6:05pm. Experience exciting USHL hockey. For tickets, call 330-747-PUCK (7825) or visit the Youngstown Phantom’s website.

Sinatra & Beyond
2026-03-13 19:30 | Stambaugh Auditorium, 1000 Fifth Ave., Youngstown, OH, 44504, United States
The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra presents Sinatra & Beyond on Friday, March 13 at 7:30pm at Stambaugh Auditorium. Pianist and vocalist Tony Desare joins the orchestra for a swinging salute to “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” Audiences will delight in timeless favorites including “Come Fly with Me,” “I’ve Got the World on a String,” and “My Way.”
For ticket information, visit the Experience Your Arts website.

Good Samaritan Day
2026-03-13
National Good Samaritan Day on March 13th recognizes the unselfish actions of those who provide help when needed. The day is also known as Good Samaritan Involvement Day and celebrates kindness in all its forms.
#GoodSamaritanDay
The term “good Samaritan” comes from the Bible parable where a Samaritan helped a stranger who had been robbed and beaten and left to die by the side of the road. The Samaritan not only cleaned the man’s wounds and clothed him but took him to an inn where he paid for the man’s care.
The term is used today to describe those who perform acts of kindness for those in need, especially those who are strangers.
HOW TO OBSERVE GOOD SAMARITAN DAY

Make an effort to help someone who is struggling or having a problem.
Share a story about someone who was a Good Samaritan in your life.
The act of a Good Samaritan can be large or small. Something as simple as a phone call to as inconvenient as stopping to help change a tire are all acts of a good Samaritan.
Make a commitment to developing a habit of kindness and awareness of others.
Volunteer. Offer your valuable skills to others in times of need. Do you enjoy sports or have mad math skills? Your ability to mentor youth may change someone’s life for the better.
Use #GoodSamaritanDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL GOOD SAMARITAN DAY HISTORY
Our research found this day honors the death of Catherine “Kitty” Genovese, who was murdered near her home on March 13, 1964, in New York City. That night, if one Good Samaritan had stepped forward, Miss Genovese would have lived. Something interrupted her killer twice that night, each interruption witnessed by neighbors or passersby. Still, no one called the police. One person called after his third and successful attempt, but too late for Miss Genovese. We have been unable to identify the creator of this national day.

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National K9 Veterans Day
2026-03-13
March 13th recognizes National K9 Veterans Day and the dedicated K9 units who’ve served since World War II.
STN Inspirational Quotes To Keep You Inspired in 2023
#NationalK9VeteransDay
A lot of things changed after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. We rationed oil, leather, and rubber. The military draft men into service. Women rolled up their sleeves and built war supplies.
And dogs were called to duty. During the first world war, the United States took notice of the European use of canines as sentries, message carriers, and several other functions.
A private citizen, Mrs. Alene Erlanger initiated a program called Dogs for Defense. Along with the American Kennel Club and a handful of breeders, the group aimed to train the dogs for military use.
By November of 1942, the military prepared the first Dogs for Defense for duty in North Africa. While they were gun shy at first, they proved to be well trained.
As the war progressed, Dogs for Defense was unable to keep up with the demand, and the Remount Branch, Service Installations Divisions took over the training of the dogs.
Over the years, the military, police, and rescue have developed a variety of training methods for K9 units. Their training is tailored to meet the demands of the job, and each animal and handler carries out his or her duties to the fullest.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL K9 VETERANS DAY

Recognize a K9 veteran.
Learn more about their service, history, and training.
Attend a ceremony honoring the working dogs in military units and working dogs across the country.
Use #NationalK9VeteransDay to post on social media.

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Food for Thought Book Discussion
2026-03-12 17:30 | Noble Creature Wild Ales & Lagers, 126 E. Rayen Ave., Youngstown, 44503, United States
Lit Youngstown’s Food for Thought book discussion group will meet at 5:30pm the second Thursday of each month at Noble Creature Wild Ales & Lagers. The series, sponsored by the Raymond J. Wean Foundation, will run September 2025 through May 2026.
This year’s titles include a script for the stage, a memoir by a celebrated New Yorker cartoonist, science fiction, novels by an Iranian immigrant and Native American writers, and a book about the changing journalism landscape that includes a chapter on the Youngstown Vindicator.
They include:
October (journalism) Ghosting the News by Margaret Sullivan
November (graphic memoir) Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast
December (drama) Passion Play by Sarah Ruhl
January (speculative fiction) Bewilderment by Richard Powers
February (memoir) There’s Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib
March (novel) Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
April (novel) Perma Red by Debra Magpie Earling
May (novel) State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
Lit Youngstown is a literary arts nonprofit with programs for writers, readers, and those who love a good story. More information is available at www.LitYoungstown.org.

National Promposal Day
2026-03-11
On March 11th, National Promposal Day prompts the ultimate question each year. “Will you go to prom with me?” It’s the day for high school students across North America to craft their unique invitation to the event of the year.

#NationalPromposalDay
Prom takes a lot of planning. That includes finding the right tux, the right dress, shoes, and accessories. Does mom teach you how to dance or do you take a dance class? Do you borrow dad’s car or rent a limo? Those are just a few of the details. But that’s getting ahead of the plan. First, ask the question on March 11th, #NationalPromposalDay.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PROMPOSAL DAY
Prom is one of the most memorable times in high school. Start it off right with an exceptional promposal. Rehearse it or wing it, but get out there and ask! Get creative about asking someone to prom and capture the special moment on video. #NationalPromposalDay #MyUltimatePromposal @menswearhouse on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter.

NATIONAL PROMPOSAL DAY HISTORY
In 2016, Men’s Wearhouse founded National Promposal Day on March 11th to inspire high school students to create the ultimate promposal.

National Worship of Tools Day
2026-03-11
March 11th is National Worship of Tools Day. This is a day to go out into the garage, the tool shed, the storage closet, or wherever it is you keep your tools. You can clean them, reorganize them, make something new with them or maybe go to the store and buy a new one.

#NationalWorshipOfToolsDay
It is hard to imagine the world without tools as they are a part of our daily lives. From the hammer, the screwdriver, and the wrench to the most sophisticated tools, they are necessary. Upon their use, they sometimes get rusty and need to be shined, they get dirty and need to be cleaned, they get dull and need to be sharpened.
Tool enthusiasts know a good tool when they see one. Often, they have a favorite brand or style. And they never seem to have enough, either. Collecting them is nearly as important as using them. Another common discussion about tools is the borrowing of tools. From one neighbor to another, tools have been loaned, borrowed, and returned numerous times. The funny papers and the sitcoms humorously remind us of this from time to time. And sometimes, so do our neighbors.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WORSHIP OF TOOLS DAY

Spend some extra time shining up your tools or fixing them if they needed it. Taking care of your tools helps them last longer, which is a benefit for you.
Go shopping for new tools. You know there must be one you don’t have.
Get to work on your latest project and put your tools to work!
Use #WorshipOfToolsDay to post on social media.

National Johnny Appleseed Day
2026-03-11
March 11th – On National Johnny Appleseed Day, we remember a man who made apple (and pear) trees bloom across the nation. The day celebrates a kindly legend who lived by sage teachings and labored to bring the shade of fruit trees across much of the United States.

#NationalJohnnyAppleseedDay
John Chapman
He was born John Chapman on September 26, 1774, in Leominster, Massachusetts, to Nathaniel and Elizabeth Simons Chapman. Not much is known about his early life other than his mother died when he was two. His father packed up Johnny and his sister (an infant brother had died the previous year) and moved to Springfield, Massachusetts. His father served as a Minuteman and fought at Bunker Hill.
Then in 1797, Chapman shows up in northwestern Pennsylvania, propagating his apple seeds. He worked his way steadily into the frontier of West Virginia, Ohio, and Indiana. Eventually, Chapman became known as Johnny Appleseed and worked his way as far west as Illinois and Iowa and as far north as Michigan and Wisconsin.
In his wake, he left orchards and the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish spiritual leader. Appleseed would buy his books with whatever payment he might receive for his endeavors. In turn, Johnny would give the books away as he traveled and planted.

Mostly, though, he planted his seeds and seedlings for free along with his wisdom, his broad-brimmed pasteboard hat keeping the sun from his eyes as he went. Often shoeless, he traveled mostly by foot and sometimes by horseback or canoe. His appearance was nearly as noteworthy as his accomplishments, but so was his kindness. Farmers and frontier folk always found a place at the table if Johnny Appleseed came visiting.
There are many stories told that the man would travel many miles to nurse an ailing orchard when word would reach him of its poor condition. Bringing the trees back to health would be his chief endeavor while dispersing wisdom, care, and kindness as he did.
Landmarks
Across the Midwest, landmarks pepper the countryside honoring the man that brought fruit to the frontier. Warren County, Pennsylvania, lays claim to Johnny Appleseed’s first tree nursery.
Mansfield, Ohio, honors the man with a monument in South Park. The last known Chapman tree still lives! In rural Ashland County, Ohio, the tree struggles to survive, but half of it still manages to bloom in the spring.
In his hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts, there is an entire park named after the man who nurtured the land and made apple trees bloom across a young nation.
Two dates celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day, either March 11th or September 26th. The September date is Appleseed’s acknowledged birth date. However, many people across the country prefer the March date due to the planting season. While some vagueness surrounds Appleseed’s death and burial, he became ill in early March and passed soon after. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, in Johnny Appleseed Park, a grave marks the spot where the legendary sower of apple seeds rests.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL JOHNNY APPLESEED DAY

Begin by reading any one of the many books written about Johnny Appleseed. Some of them are mere folklore but others delve into the man himself.
Visiting some of the landmarks where Johnny Appleseed once lived and worked.
Plant a fruit tree. Visit your local orchard to learn more about the trees that live and thrive in your area. Sometimes you will need two in order for them to bear fruit, so be sure you ask.
Eat your favorite tree fruit. It doesn’t have to be an apple. Johnny Appleseed planted several varieties of fruit trees. While you can find apples in March, they aren’t in season. Tree fruits that are in season include avocados, kumquats, lemons, limes, oranges, mandarins, and pomelos. Only a few of these grow in the United States. Do you know which ones?
Educators and families, visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for projects and ideas to help you Celebrate Every Day!
Enjoy an apple and use #JohnnyAppleseedDay to post on social media.

National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day
2026-03-11
National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day on March 11th reminds us to thank the professionals who consider every need during the most challenging time in our lives.

#FuneralDirectorMorticianRecognition
Funeral directors and morticians dedicate their lives to helping us celebrate our loved ones. They bring together the memories and achievements of someone we’ve lost to death. With professional guidance and compassion, funeral directors help with every step of planning a funeral. While the news settles, these experts understand how emotional and stressful the process is.
Funeral directors come equipped with a perfect skillset. Their compassion and excellent organizational skills guide us through a celebration of someone we loved dearly. In addition, being a funeral director means being a good listener, a skill many of them have in spades.
They work hard to attain their skills, too. Both morticians and funeral directors study mortuary science, attaining an associate degree or higher. A 1-3 year apprenticeship follows their degree. Funeral directors must be licensed.

Beyond their training, funeral directors know how to put people at ease. When we grieve, the pain of loss takes on many different faces. Funeral directors act as guides and help to fulfill the wishes of our loved ones. When the pain and suffering ends, the mortician and funeral director provide a sense of peace and unity at a time that can seem chaotic even at its best.HOW TO OBSERVE FUNERAL DIRECTOR AND MORTICIAN RECOGNITION
Thank a funeral director or a mortician for their time and care. Show your appreciation of their services and recognize the work they do in one of several ways:
Send a thank you card letting them know how much their services mean to you.
Recommend their services to others.
Preplan your funeral. Put your funeral in the hands of the business that has proven to you they can care for your family.
Share your experiences as a funeral director or mortician.
Use #FuneralDirectorMorticianRecognition to share on social media.
NATIONAL FUNERAL DIRECTOR & MORTICIAN RECOGNITION DAY HISTORY
In 2008, Congress passed a resolution designating March 11th as National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day.

Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party
2026-03-08 19:00 | Covelli Centre, 229 East Front Street, Youngstown, OH, 44503, United States
Comedy superstar Bert Kreischer brings his Permission to Party World Tour to the Covelli Centre on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 7:00pm.
Tickets will be available on Tickemaster.com. Ticket Prices: $125.00, $95.00, $85.00, $75.00, $65.00, $55.00, $45.00, $35.00, $25.00.

International Womens Day
2026-03-08
International Women’s Day on March 8th each year celebrates the social, economic, and political achievements of women around the world. The day also brings international awareness to gender parity. According to the World Economic Forum, global gender equality is estimated to be achieved by 2133.

#InternationalWomensDay
Gender equality is equal access to the same rights and opportunities regardless of gender. These rights and opportunities include:

healthcare
education
employment / economic gain
pay
protection under the law
right to vote
free from violence

Striving for Change
Holding Political Office
Just over 100 years ago, only .2 % of the United States Congress consisted of women. Actually, the 65th Congress was comprised of a single woman. In 1916, Montana elected Republican Jeannette Rankin as the first Congresswoman to hold a federal office. Fast forward to the year 2020 and women hold 23.7% of the U.S. Congressional seats. While that might seem like progress, according to United Nations statistics, the U.S. percentage matches exactly the worldwide average for women in political office.
Education
In many parts of the world, women are less likely to own land, a business, or attend school. Education alone is a powerful tool leading to financial independence for women. Their children reap the rewards, often for generations to come. Additionally, when the women of a community prosper, so does the community. Educated women and girls are more likely to educate their offspring. They also have a better understanding of healthcare and understand their rights.
Equal Pay
According to the United Nations, more than half of the world’s poorest people are women. International Women’s Day strives to bring economic power to women who are not allowed to work for pay or work for low wages. And despite strides in industrialized countries, there is still work to do there, too.

HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Around the world, organizations, communities, and individuals organize events focused on the mission of gender parity, celebrating the achievements of women worldwide and education.

Attend a lecture, seminar, or festival.
Organize an event.
Speak or perform at a local fundraiser.
Participate in a march for women’s equal rights.
Learn about the women who paved the way for many of the rights and freedoms we have today.
Become involved in your local, state, or national political system.
Invite others to join you, including other women, sons, brothers, sisters, and daughters.
Share your job skills at a local career fair.
Celebrate all month long. It is also National Women’s History Month.
Use #InternationalWomensDay when posting on Social Media.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY HISTORY
International Women’s Day origins can be traced back to the early 1900s when women became more politically active. They took an invested and vocal role in steering their course toward voting rights, fair pay, improved working conditions, and representation under the law.
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Youngstown Phantoms vs. Madison Capitols
2026-03-07 18:05, 2026-03-06 19:05, 2026-03-05 19:05 | Covelli Centre, 229 East Front Street, Youngstown, OH, 44503, United States
The Youngstown Phantoms take on the Madison Capitols at the Covelli Centre on Thursday, March 5 at 7:05pm; Friday, March 6 at 7:05pm; and Saturday, March 7 (Season Ticket Holder Night) at 6:05pm. Experience exciting USHL hockey. For tickets, call 330-747-PUCK (7825) or visit the Youngstown Phantom’s website.

National Play Outside Day
2026-03-07 08:00 - 17:00
If it’s the first Saturday of the month, it’s National Play Outside Day. So, no matter what month it is, everyone put down their electronic devices and get outside!
#PlayOutsideDay
All year long, we are given numerous opportunities to get outside and play. But sometimes, life, responsibilities, and distractions keep us from spending time in the fresh air as we should. National Play Outside Day is a reminder to stretch our legs and expend some energy in the great outdoors.

Benefits of Outdoor Play
Why is playing outside so good for us? Besides getting us off the sofa or away from the desk, it also gives us an opportunity to explore our neighborhoods. While it’s impossible to list all the benefits of outdoor play, we do have a few to share.

Playing outdoors is a freeing activity. It frees us from routines, enclosed spaces, and frames of mind.
The outdoors fills us with energy. Whether it’s the fresh air, sunshine, or physical activity, we perk up and become motivated to accomplish things.
It clears the cobwebs from our brains. We sometimes get stuck on a topic, project, or issue and are unable to resolve it. A change of scene often brings clarity we didn’t have before.
Outdoor play provides terrific physical activity for our bodies. Our hearts pump fresh oxygen to our limbs and brains.
We experience new sights and sounds. Children get to experience the world around them.
As a social activity, playing outside encourages positive interactions.
When you play outside every month, it becomes habit-forming – and this is one good habit to have!
It stimulates the imagination. Outdoor play almost has no boundaries. Your yard can be a kingdom or the playground can be a mountain to scale.

We’ve only scratched the surface of the benefits of outdoor play. There are so many more! So, be sure to get outside with the family on the first Saturday of every month – or even more often than that!

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY
We know the seasons change, so what we were able to do outside last month will be different this month. However, that shouldn’t stop you from celebrating the day. This is your monthly reminder that it’s time to get outside and play. We have suggestions for every season that we’re sure you’ll enjoy!

Explore hiking trails near you.
Visit the local swimming pool or even take swimming lessons.
Check out every park in your neighborhood and climb, slide or swing on every playground set.
Start a game of catch, kickball, tag, or Frisbee or make up a game.
Go to the beach.
Run through the sprinkler.
Go camping.
Go fishing.
Fly a kite.
Jump in a pile of leaves.
Build a fort – of leaves or snow or whatever is handy.
Walk around the block.
Go for a bike ride.
Build a snowperson.
Go sledding.
Identify the constellations at night and look for meteors.
Visit your favorite state or national park.
Check out these 9 Fun Winter Outdoor Activities.

What’s your favorite way to play outside? Introduce some of the games you used to play to your children. Whatever you do, be sure to get outside and play! Use #PlayOutsideDay to share on social media.
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Dress in Blue Day
2026-03-06
In an effort to knock out one of the top cancers causing death, National Dress in Blue Day on the first Friday in March encourages everyone to learn about the causes of colon cancer and raise awareness by wearing blue.

#DressInBlueDay
Much like the pink ribbon represents those lost to breast cancer, a blue star honors the memory of those lost to colon cancer. Continuing the blue theme on Dress in Blue Day, awareness efforts provide support through fundraising for screening, research, and awareness education.

Screenings are vital. Colon cancer often has no symptoms until its advanced stages placing its victims at higher risk if they wait until symptoms appear. Screenings are recommended beginning at age 50 and younger if you are at high risk.

HOW TO OBSERVE DRESS IN BLUE DAY

Check your closet and wear something blue.
Find out more about your risk factors.
Schedule a screening if you are due.
Donate.
Use #DressInBlueDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL DRESS IN BLUE DAY HISTORY
In 2006, Anita Mitchell, a stage IV colon cancer survivor, founder of Colon Cancer Stars helped organize a day in her child’s school to raise colon cancer awareness called Wear Blue for Colon Cancer Awareness Day after losing her father and a friend to the disease. National Dress in Blue Day’s success as a local school program encouraged Anita to bring the idea to the Colon Cancer Alliance in 2009. From there, this outstanding fundraiser developed into a nationwide program.
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National Employee Appreciation Day
2026-03-06
National Employee Appreciation Day on the first Friday in March each year focuses attention on employees in all industries. Employers across the country in business and organizations plan employee recognition and celebrations. Employee achievement and contributions are honored.

Employees are one of a company’s greatest assets. Recognition and appreciation are known as some of the key motivational factors in the workplace. An employer may show their gratitude for an employee’s efforts and contributions to the company’s goals in a variety of ways. Many organizations include employee appreciation as part of their business structure. It shows how much they value their employees and keeps morale high in the workplace. Employers who express employee appreciation tend to increase employee job satisfaction as well.
While showing your employees how much you appreciate them, ask them how they like to be thanked. Employers might find a consensus of three or four ways that might best serve your industry overall. It might also save some head-scratching too. Did you go over budget on an ice cream sundae bar last year when your team prefers discounted services to the local chiropractor? In the spirit of enthusiasm, consider the nature of your business and how your employees celebrate, too.
While employees’ personalities differ, most employees are goal-driven people. Earning an award, a thank you, or recognition motivates them to reach even higher goals to the benefit of any business or organization.

HOW TO OBSERVE #EmployeeAppreciationDay

Show your employees that you value them.

Be Flexible – Flexibility goes a long way in this virtual reality world. If possible within your industry, allowing a little flexibility can reap huge benefits when you need last-minute work done.
A Thank You Note – Believe it or not, many employees appreciate a heartfelt, hand-written thank you more than a slap on the back or a last-minute e-mail.
Team Effort Celebration – If the team pulled together and made it happen, reward them with an office pizza party, casual dress day, or even close the office early so they can spend some well-earned time with family.
Get Caught – Ensure the employee hears you telling someone else you thought they did a great job. Give the employee the credit they deserve. If they’re the best at something, make sure a client knows it. It also sets the expectation of repeat performance.
Create a Culture of Encouragement – Employees who expand their horizons bring new skills to your workforce and will encourage others to do so, too. Praise their achievements and encourage others to pursue their goals.

Share your favorite way to be appreciated. Answer those employee surveys so your employer can take action to improve the workplace.
If you have employees, be sure to show them some appreciation and use #EmployeeAppreciationDay to post on social media.

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National Sons Day
2026-03-04
Every year on March 4th, National Sons Day honors the sons of the world and those who raise them. The day also takes a look at a son’s role and his relationship with those around him.
Around the world, slightly more sons are born than daughters. Both bring joy to families, though. Our rambunctious sons grow into adult men and forge their own independence in the world. Some are soft-spoken and gentle. Others with a spark of curiosity fill every hour with questions, some unanswerable.
Parents and family members strive to mold them into a person better than we are. Sons, like many children, test the boundaries until one day, they stand before us, grown. National Sons Day encourages parents to be role models and provide the boundaries sons need. Celebrate their successes while guiding them through their failures. Give them a foundation of skills that they will rely on for a lifetime and pass on to their sons.
Each day as a son and the parent of one is a treasure. Boys need us to model responsibility, hard work, and integrity. As they work and learn beside us, those qualities will be instilled in them. The day reminds us of the value our sons bring to our lives and others.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalSonsDay

Consider all the things you want your son to know and be when he’s an adult.
Take the day to teach your son something you think is important for him to know. Change a tire or balance the checkbook. The small tasks, the mundane ones are the ones that get in the way when we don’t know how to do them. Bond over the experience by letting him know you teach him these skills to clear a path for the bigger events in his life.
Join an organization for mentoring boys without male role models.
Find a role model that fits the interests of your son.
Teach your son something your father taught you.
Offer to give a skills class at a school.
Make the day unique by taking a photograph with all the sons together and share on social media using #NationalSonsDay.

NATIONAL SONS DAY HISTORY
In 2018, Jill Nico created National Sons Day celebrating the importance and significance of sons and those who raise them. While there’s no single reason for selecting March 4th, the founder explains spring seemed ideal, and the date resounds with momentum when spoken. Additionally, many sons enjoy spring sports, and it’s an excellent time to spend time outdoors. Visit the Facebook page to join in the celebration.
In the late 1990s, an effort to create National Sons Day began as a counterpart to National Take Your Daughters to Work Day. By 1998, the group called National Sons Day created National Take Your Sons to Work Day. In later years, the separate observances joined forces.
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National Hug a G.I. Day
2026-03-04
As the only day on the calendar that is mnemonically a military command, March 4th recognizes National Hug a G.I. Day.
Gather around your servicemen and women to give them a hug. It’s simply a way to show your support. With either a pat on the back or a hearty handshake, be sure to give both past and present G.I.s your appreciation. While G.I.s refer to Army personnel, the day encompasses all those who have served in the military. So, hug those Jarheads, Wingnuts, Squids, and Coasties, too!
Today the term G.I. is fairly commonly known to refer to those serving in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. How that came to be is a little less military protocol and more the American story.

It seems at the turn of the 20th century, G.I. was a notation used in supply records for galvanized iron. It was later used during World War I for German artillery shells made from galvanized iron.
Sometime during the war, soldiers started interpreting the initials as “Government Issue” or “General Issue”. By the time World War II came around it was starting to gain meaning as the generic enlisted man.
Not surprisingly, sarcastic usage among many servicemen was common, feeling they were just like any other Government Issued supply being mass-produced for Uncle Sam.
About that time G.I. Joe was born. His creator, comic strip artist, and former Army Sergeant David Breger, issued his first G.I. Joe cartoon series in Yank magazine on June 17, 1942.
The term G.I. became more permanently etched in the American language when in 1944 President Franklin Roosevelt signed the bill that became known as the G.I. Bill; Servicemen’s Readjustment Act.
And then there was no going back when Hasbro trademarked their G.I. Joe as an action figure in 1964.

HOW TO OBSERVE #HugAGIDay

Find a G.I. you know and give them a hug.
Is your G.I. too far away to give a hug? Send him or her a virtual one via text, e-mail, phone or even snail mail.
Show your support for the military.
Use #HugAGIDay to post on social media.

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National I Want You to be Happy Day
2026-03-03
National I Want You to be Happy Day on March 3rd encourages us to do something that makes others happy. It also asks us to see others’ happiness from their point of view. Putting a smile on someone’s face tends to put one on ours, too.

Happiness is the highest form of health. ~ Dalai Lama

Genuine happiness takes effort. While we’re not individually responsible for others’ happiness, we do play a role in spreading joy and good cheer. One way to do that is to see happiness from another person’s perspective. Happiness doesn’t fit a mold. Everything from being a morning person or a night owl, a favorite season and seafood can make or break a person’s general idea of happiness. A person’s overall journey through life gives them a unique outlook on happiness, too.
Being happy may merely be about quality, not quantity.

HOW TO OBSERVE #IWantYouToBeHappyDay

Start the day with a happy thought and carry it with you throughout the day.
Make someone smile. Give a flower or tell a silly knock-knock joke there.
Buy the person’s coffee standing in line behind you.
Remind your kids how much you love them.
Leave a sticky note for a co-worker telling them to have a spectacular day, a happy day.
Draw a happy face in the snow for a stranger to come across later. Give someone a hug.
Consider someone else’s happiness from their point of view.
Use #IWantYouToBeHappyDay to post on social media.

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National Read Across America Day
2026-03-02
Each year, National Read Across America Day is celebrated on March 2nd, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. The annual event is part of Read Across America, an initiative on reading created by the National Education Association. Since the event is designed to encourage reading in children and is fostered through the schools, when March 2nd lands on a weekend, the day is observed on the closest school day.

#ReadAcrossAmericaDay #DrSeussDay
This motivational and awareness day calls all children and youth in every community across the United States to celebrate reading. It encourages them to read where ever they are. Great ways to inspire reading in children include:

Keep books everywhere you spend time. Put them in the car, in every room of the house, and tuck them in backpacks and purses. Make them easily accessible.
Visit the library often. Knowing how to use the library and learning the benefits of a library fosters a love of reading as well as genuine respect for the services libraries provide.
Get caught reading. Children imitate what they see the adults around them do. Whether they see you read a magazine, newspaper, or novel, let them know reading is the cool thing to do.
Read to your children. No matter their age, reading aloud strengthens their vocabulary and language skills. It also opens up opportunities for discussion.
Have your children read to you, too. You never know what you might learn!

HOW TO OBSERVE READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY

Pick up an interesting book and read it.
More importantly, read with a child.
Join your library.
Attend a book reading.
Read a book you’ve been meaning to read.
Read a book you’ve read before. You may discover that it has a new meaning to you since you last read it.
Try reading aloud, even if it is just to yourself. It will make great practice for reading to children. (Hint, hint.)
Visit the National Day Calendar® Classroom for ways to incorporate National Read Across America Day into your classroom.
Use #ReadAcrossAmericaDay or #DrSeussDay to post on social media.

For adults, here are a couple of recommendations for books:

The 3-Minute Rule by Brant Pinvidic.
Open Secrets of Success: The Gary Tharaldson Story by Patrick McCloskey

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Peanut Butter Lovers Day
2026-03-01
March 1st was made for National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day. Ah, peanut butter. One day is not enough to recognize peanut butter. The goober has been paired, blended, and added with many tasty results!
#PeanutButterLoversDay
The creamy, nutty goodness known as peanut butter is so amazingly delicious that when we pair it with creamy and dreamy chocolate, we almost have bacon.
We digress. Another great love is peanut butter ice cream. Blended smooth with a few chopped nuts and a drizzle of peanut butter syrup is a peanut butter lover’s dream come true.
The slang term for peanut butter in World War II was “monkey butter.”
A monkey visited the lab at Kellogg’s one day and dipped his banana in a jar of peanut butter, and he’s been ape over the combination ever since. Actually, banana slices with peanut butter sandwiched between them and dipped in chocolate make a terrific snack.
Peanut butter and bananas were a combination even fit for a king. Elvis Presley loved a peanut butter and banana sandwich or two.

Then peanut butter got its passport and traveled the world. It paired up with some shrimp and got a little saucy. The result is a Thai peanut butter shrimp that is so yummy it had to be true love.
Things heated up a little when peanut butter jumped into the stew pot to sweat it out with a spring chick seasoned with some cayenne. African Chicken Peanut Stew tastes better than ever.
One of the best times peanut butter has ever had is with marshmallows. Fudge enjoys a satisfying dessert status to be envied.
Fun Peanut Butter Facts:

It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter.
C.H. Sumner first sold peanut butter in the United States at the Universal Exposition in St. Louis. He sold $705.11 of the “new treat” at his concession stand.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup was introduced to America in 1928.
The oldest operating manufacturer and seller of peanut butter has been selling peanut butter since 1898.
Mr. Ed TV’s used peanut butter as a secret ingredient to get a horse talking.
Americans spend almost $800 million a year on peanut butter.
January 24th is National Peanut Butter Day.

HOW TO OBSERVE PEANUT BUTTER LOVER’S DAY

Fall in love with some peanut butter or a new peanut butter combination.
Try peanut butter and apples.
Or maybe fried peaches and peanut butter.
Try one of the recipes above.
Or how about peanut butter and bacon.
Share your favorite peanut butter combos.
Use #PeanutButterLoversDay to post on social media.

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PBR: Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour
2026-02-28 19:00 | Covelli Centre, 229 East Front Street, Youngstown, OH, 44503, United States
PBR: Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour rides into Youngstown February 27 & 28, 2026! Professional bull riding returns to the Covelli Centre for two action-packed nights: Friday, February 27 at 8:00pm, and Saturday, February 28 at 7:00pm.
Ticket Prices: $107, $89, $74, $59, $49, $39, $29
Tickets will be available at Ticketmaster.com. Visit the Covelli Centre website for more information.

National Tooth Fairy Day
2026-02-28
February 28th, National Tooth Fairy Day, encourages us to take a look back on the history of one of dental care’s little helpers. It’s one way our children develop good dental hygiene.
#NationalToothFairyDay
Like some of the fantastic creations who oversee children, the tooth fairy is a relative newcomer to the world of childhood fantasies.

1920s
In the mid-1920s, fairies were used for all sorts of health education, from bath fairies to fresh air fairies as a way to get kids to remember to eat their vegetables, wash behind their ears and get a good night’s rest. Like toothpaste today advertises fruity flavors and sparkles to get kids excited to brush their teeth, in 1925, it was probably quite a bit more difficult considering the pastes were mostly peroxide and baking soda. One advertisement was for a Fairy Wand Tooth Whitener. This product promised to brush away cigarette and coffee stains. The ad was aimed at both children and adults, we hope!
Then in 1927, Esther Watkins Arnold printed an eight-page playlet for children called The Tooth Fairy. The same year Sir Arthur Conan Doyle “proved” his claim that fairies and gnomes are real and “verified” with pictures of two little girls surrounded by fairies. The world was ripe with imagination and primed to have a tooth fairy to come collect the lost teeth of little boys and girls and leave a coin or two behind.
Arnold’s play began to be performed in schools the following year, and the tooth fairy has been slipping into homes ever since. She (or he) started leaving nickels and dimes under the pillows of sleeping children. Over the years, there have been variations on the theme.
1942
In 1942, in an article written by columnist Bob Balfe in the Palm Beach Post, his children received War Stamps to put in their books when they lost a tooth. It was a popular alternative during a time when giving to the war effort was a motivating factor.
Today
Today, the tooth fairy jingles less often. The average payout for a lost tooth ranges from $3 to $4 and can go even higher if Dad is on duty or if the tooth is lost late at night with no time for a parent to run to an ATM.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TOOTH FAIRY DAY

Make an appointment for your next cleaning.
Ask your parents if they still have the first tooth you lost.
Be a tooth fairy!
Volunteer or give to dental organizations. Many of them provide free or low-cost dental care to those who cannot afford it. Others support dental students in their educational journey. These organizations are a vital part of our communities and states. You can also give a shout-out to your favorite organization. Be a tooth fairy to those near you. We found a few that might interest you.

America’s Dentists Care Foundation, Missions of Mercy
National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, also known as America’s Toothfairy

Download this coloring page to celebrate!
Use #NationalToothFairyDay to post on social media

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