National Missouri Day
National Missouri Day is a state observance dedicated to celebrating the rich history, culture, and achievements of the Show-Me State. This special day encourages citizens to honor Missouri’s heritage and educate future generations about the state’s significance.
Quick Facts
When is it?: Third Wednesday in October
Tagged as: State Observance Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalMissouriDay #ShowMeState
When was it founded?: 1915
Who founded it?: Anna Lee Brosius Korn, a Missouri schoolteacher
History
Anna Lee Brosius Korn, inspired after composing the state song “Missouri,” established this day to foster state pride. Initially set for the first Monday in October, the 75th General Assembly moved it to the third Wednesday in October in 1969.
Timeline
- 1915: House Bill 122 officially creates Missouri Day
- 1969: Date changed to third Wednesday in October
- Present: Continues as an annual celebration of state heritage
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October | 16 |
| 2025 | October | 15 |
| 2026 | October | 21 |
| 2027 | October | 20 |
| 2028 | October | 18 |
Observed
Schools across Missouri organize special programs, parades, and educational activities. Communities gather for cultural events, historical reenactments, and local celebrations.
Fun Facts About Missouri
- Home to over 6,100 known caves, earning the nickname “The Cave State”
- Features the Gateway Arch, America’s tallest man-made monument at 630 feet
- Kansas City has more fountains than any city except Rome
- The Lake of the Ozarks has more shoreline than California’s coast
- Home to the first Pony Express starting point in St. Joseph
Quiz
- When was Missouri Day established?
- Who founded Missouri Day?
- What’s Missouri’s nickname?
- How tall is the Gateway Arch?
- Which city has the second-most fountains in the world?
(Answers: 1915, Anna Lee Brosius Korn, The Show-Me State, 630 feet, Kansas City)
FAQs
- Is Missouri Day a public holiday? No, it’s a state observance day
- Do schools close? No, but they organize special activities
- Is it celebrated outside Missouri? Generally only within the state
Importance of Missouri Day
The day serves to educate residents about their state’s heritage, promote state pride, and preserve Missouri’s cultural legacy for future generations.
Related
- Missouri Statehood Day
- Missouri State Fair
- Gateway Arch Anniversary
- Mark Twain Days
- Missouri Wine Month
