National Gratitude Day is a special observance dedicated to expressing appreciation and thankfulness. It’s a day to reflect on the positive aspects of life and acknowledge the people and experiences that make it meaningful.

Quick Facts

When is it: September 21st annually
Tagged as: Day of Thanks and Recognition
What’s the hashtag: #NationalGratitudeDay
When was it founded: 2021
Who founded it: Todd Stiefel and Center for Inquiry (CFI)

History of National Gratitude Day

The initiative began as a grassroots campaign by ScienceSaves and the Center for Inquiry. Ten U.S. states initially supported the movement by issuing official proclamations, marking a bipartisan effort to promote gratitude and appreciation across the nation.

Timeline

  • 2021: First official celebration with ten states participating
  • 2022: Expanded recognition across multiple states
  • 2023: Growing international awareness
  • 2024: Established as a widely recognized day of gratitude

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2024September21Saturday
2025September21Sunday
2026September21Monday
2027September21Tuesday
2028September21Thursday
2029September21Friday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by keeping gratitude journals, sharing appreciation with others, organizing community events, and performing acts of kindness. Many workplaces organize special recognition programs and gratitude-themed activities.

Fun Facts About National Gratitude Day

  • Studies show practicing gratitude improves mental health
  • It’s celebrated in various forms across different cultures
  • Many schools incorporate gratitude activities on this day
  • Some companies give employees time off for volunteering
  • Digital gratitude campaigns reach millions globally

Quiz

  1. When is National Gratitude Day celebrated?
  2. Who founded National Gratitude Day?
  3. How many states initially recognized the day?
  4. What year was the first official celebration?

-(Answers: September 21st; Todd Stiefel; Ten states; 2021)

FAQs

Q: Is it a federal holiday?
A: No, it’s an observance day.

Q: Can anyone participate?
A: Yes, it’s open to everyone globally.

Q: How can businesses participate?
A: Through employee recognition programs and community service.

Related

  • World Kindness Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • International Day of Peace
  • Random Acts of Kindness Day
  • Global Forgiveness Day

On This Day: