September 17 National Days

September 17 is the 260th day of the year (261st in leap years), leaving 105 days until the year’s end.

National Days on September 17th — September 17 National Days

September 17 highlights themes of citizenship, heritage, music, food, and community. Some observances trace their origins back to the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, while others are modern initiatives that celebrate cultural icons, culinary favorites, or national identity.

Here’s a closer look at the 15 national and international days celebrated on September 17.

National and International Days on September 17

Australian Citizenship Day: First celebrated in 2001, Australian Citizenship Day was established following a recommendation from the Australian Citizenship Council. The date commemorates 1973, when the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 was renamed the Australian Citizenship Act 1948, the first time “Australian citizen” appeared in legislation. The day celebrates the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and honors the diversity of modern Australia through ceremonies, school programs, and community events.

Constitution Day and Citizenship Day (U.S.): Observed each year on September 17, this holiday marks the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and honors both native-born and naturalized citizens. It grew out of “I Am an American Day,” introduced in the 1940s, and was formally combined with Constitution Day in 1952. Congress renamed it in 2004, requiring federally funded schools to hold educational programs about the Constitution. The observance reflects both the nation’s founding principles and the continuing importance of citizenship.

International Country Music Day: Observed every year on September 17, this day celebrates the global influence of country music while honoring the legacy of Hank Williams, one of the genre’s most iconic figures, born on this date in 1923. Established in 2003, the observance highlights how country music, rooted in American folk traditions of the South, has grown into a worldwide cultural force, blending storytelling, emotional expression, and musical innovation. From early Appalachian ballads and Western swing to modern country-pop and international festivals, the genre resonates with themes of love, hardship, and resilience that cross borders and generations.

🎶 Related observance: National Country Music Day on July 4.

National Days for Musicians and Music Lovers

National Apple Dumpling Day: This food holiday celebrates one of America’s most comforting desserts: the apple dumpling. The dish dates back to colonial times, when settlers adapted European pastry traditions using the abundant apples of North America. In particular, the Pennsylvania Dutch community embraced apple dumplings, baking spiced, cored apples wrapped in dough and served with cream or syrup. Today, the dish continues to symbolize home baking, fall traditions, and the enduring role of apples in American culture.

National Monte Cristo Day: Established in 2015 by the U.S. restaurant chain Bennigan’s, this day pays tribute to the Monte Cristo, a fried sandwich filled with ham, turkey, and cheese, often served with powdered sugar and jam. The dish evolved from France’s croque-monsieur and rose to popularity in the mid-20th century, especially in California diners and Disneyland’s Blue Bayou restaurant.

National Pet Bird Day: Created in 2019 by the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK), this observance recognizes the joy and companionship that pet birds bring while promoting responsible ownership. It highlights the intelligence, beauty, and personality of parrots, finches, canaries, and other birds, while reminding owners of the specialized diets, enrichment, and care these animals require. The day fosters appreciation for birds as companions and raises awareness about their long lifespans and unique needs.

National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day: Established in 2020 by Kidde, this observance raises awareness about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning for pets as well as humans. Known as the “silent killer,” CO is odorless and colorless, produced by faulty heating systems, appliances, or blocked vents. The day encourages pet owners to install and test alarms, learn the symptoms of poisoning in animals, and ensure homes are properly ventilated. It reminds us that pet safety is inseparable from family safety.

National Pet Days and Veterinary Awareness Days 2025

National Professional House Cleaners Day: This day recognizes the essential contributions of professional house cleaners, whose work ensures healthier, safer, and more comfortable living environments. Founded in 2019 by the American House Cleaners Association (AHCA), the observance highlights house cleaning as a skilled trade that requires knowledge of sanitation, organization, and time management. By honoring professional cleaners, the day brings attention to their role in protecting public health, supporting busy households, and maintaining standards of cleanliness that benefit individuals, families, and communities.

Cleaning & Organizing National Days, Weeks and Months

National School Backpack Awareness Day* (Third Wednesday in September): Launched in 2001 by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), this day educates families and students on the risks of heavy or improperly worn backpacks. Overloaded bags can strain the back, shoulders, and neck, especially in children. Events often include backpack weigh-ins and demonstrations on safe packing and lifting techniques. The observance promotes healthier habits that support children’s long-term physical well-being.

National Table Shuffleboard Day: Created in 2017 by Zieglerworld, a shuffleboard manufacturer, this day celebrates a game with roots in 15th-century England. Known historically as “shove-groat,” shuffleboard evolved into a pastime enjoyed in pubs, community centers, and family homes.

National Uniform Day* (Third Wednesday in September): Established by the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD), this day honors the millions of people worldwide who wear uniforms in their daily work. Uniforms symbolize unity, professionalism, and service across industries ranging from healthcare and public safety to hospitality and education. The observance recognizes the pride and responsibility carried by uniformed workers and the role uniforms play in identity and trust.

Smithsonian Day (Museum Day): Organized by Smithsonian magazine, this annual event offers free admission to participating museums, zoos, and cultural institutions across the United States. It began as a way to extend the Smithsonian spirit of “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” beyond Washington, D.C. By opening doors to institutions nationwide, the day promotes curiosity, education, and access to cultural heritage.

Time’s Up Day: Introduced by holiday creators Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays, this day encourages reconciliation and forgiveness. It reminds us that life is too short to carry grudges and that apologies and kindness can repair broken relationships. The observance reflects the power of second chances, urging people to take initiative in resolving conflicts.

World Manta Day: Established in 2020 by conservation groups such as the Manta Trust, this observance highlights the importance of manta and mobula rays to marine ecosystems. These graceful filter-feeders are threatened by overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation. World Manta Day educates the public about their ecological role and calls for global action to protect them through sustainable fishing, marine protected areas, and community engagement.

World Patient Safety Day: Proclaimed in 2019 by the World Health Organization (WHO), this annual UN-backed observance promotes global action to reduce avoidable harm in healthcare. It recognizes patient safety as a fundamental component of quality health systems. Each year carries a theme, such as safe maternal care or medication safety, encouraging hospitals, policymakers, and communities to work together to protect patients.