National Coloring Day is a celebration dedicated to the art of coloring, recognizing it as both a creative outlet and therapeutic activity for people of all ages. It’s a day to embrace the simple joy of filling blank spaces with vibrant colors, whether through traditional coloring books or freestyle artistic expression.

Quick Facts

When is it?: September 14th annually
Tagged as: Art & Creative Expression Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalColoringDay
When was it founded?: Early 2010s
Who founded it?: Unspecified creator during adult coloring book movement

History

The tradition emerged during the adult coloring book boom of the 2010s, coinciding with the growing recognition of coloring’s therapeutic benefits. The day gained prominence following the success of adult coloring books like “Secret Garden” and “Enchanted Forest” by Johanna Basford in 2015.

Timeline

• 1880s: First coloring books introduced for educational purposes
• 2010s: Adult coloring books emerge for therapeutic purposes
• 2015: Peak of adult coloring book popularity
• Present: Annual celebration with worldwide participation

Dates by Next Year

YearDateDay
2025Sept 14Sunday
2026Sept 14Monday
2027Sept 14Tuesday
2028Sept 14Thursday
2029Sept 14Friday

Observed

The day is celebrated through individual coloring sessions, group coloring parties, art supply donations, and social media sharing of colored artwork.

Fun Facts About Coloring

• Coloring activates both logic and creativity brain hemispheres
• It can induce a meditative state
• Helps improve sleep when done before bedtime
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Promotes mindfulness and focus

Quiz

  1. When was the first coloring book introduced?
  2. What year did adult coloring books peak in popularity?
  3. Who created the “Secret Garden” coloring book?
    -(Answers: 1880s, 2015, Johanna Basford)

FAQs

Q: Is coloring only for children?
A: No, it’s beneficial for all ages.

Q: What materials can I use?
A: Crayons, colored pencils, markers, or digital tools.

Importance of National Coloring Day

This day promotes mental wellness, creative expression, and stress relief through the simple act of coloring. It encourages both children and adults to take time for artistic activities.

Related

• National Coloring Book Day
• World Art Day
• International Creativity Day
• National Crayon Day
• World Mental Health Day