December 22 National Days

December 22, 2025, is the 356th day of the year, with 9 days remaining until the end of the year. Following yesterday’s busy calendar of observances, this date is noticeably quieter, featuring just four national day observances. With Christmas only days away, the focus shifts toward reflection and seasonal baking.

Below is a list of all national and international days celebrated on December 22, each with a brief explanation.

National & International Days on December 22

Forefathers’ Day* (Unless on Sunday, Then Following Monday) remembers the Pilgrim Fathers and their landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620. The historical landing happened on December 21, but a calendar error in the 1700s shifted the official observance to the 22nd. Even after the mistake was discovered, the date stayed the same, and it’s still recognized today.

National Cookie Exchange Day continues a full month of cookie-themed celebrations. National Cookie Day on December 4 highlighted cookies in all forms, National Cookie Decorating Day on December 10 focused on icing and creative designs, and Bake Cookies Day on December 18 was all about baking from scratch. Today’s observance ties it all together by encouraging people to share their cookies with others.

National Date Nut Bread Day highlights a traditional bread made with dates and nuts that became popular in the early 20th century. It is often linked to British date and walnut loaf traditions and winter baking in the United Kingdom and the United States. Some sources also recognize the observance on September 8.

National Date Nut Bread Day

National Short Person Day follows yesterday’s National Short Girl Appreciation Day and expands the celebration to people of shorter stature of all genders. It highlights perspective, confidence, and the idea that height is relative, not a measure of worth.