April 2 National Days

April 2 is the 92nd day of the year (93rd in leap years), with 273 days remaining. It’s a meaningful date marked by 13 national and international days, ranging from literary awareness and health advocacy to quirky celebrations like riding a horse to a bar. Each one highlights a different aspect of culture, community, and creativity.

Here’s a look at the national and international days celebrated on April 2.

National and International Days on April 2

Childhelp National Day of Hope* (First Wednesday in April): This day was established in 2000 by the nonprofit Childhelp to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect. It takes place during National Child Abuse Prevention Month and calls on individuals and communities to commit to protecting children and supporting victims. It was founded by Yvonne Fedderson and Sara O’Meara, who advocated for a congressional resolution to mark the day.

Don’t Walk Your Dog Day: Created by dog trainer Niki French in 2022, this observance challenges the idea that daily walks are always beneficial for dogs. It raises awareness that some dogs—due to age, anxiety, or health—may need alternatives to traditional walking. The day encourages pet owners to learn about their dogs’ needs and discover other enriching ways to keep them mentally and physically engaged.

International Children’s Book Day: Since 1967, this day has celebrated the joy and importance of children’s books, observed on or around Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday. Organized by IBBY (International Board on Books for Young People), it promotes reading through themed events, book awards, and author spotlights. Countries take turns selecting the year’s theme and hosting events in schools and libraries worldwide.

International Fact-Checking Day: Established in 2016 by the International Fact-Checking Network, this global observance promotes the value of truth in journalism, education, and public communication. It encourages individuals to verify sources and question misinformation, emphasizing that accountability and accuracy are everyone’s responsibility—not just that of professional fact-checkers.

National DIY Day* (also celebrated on First Saturday in April , which is April 5th, 2025): Founded by Craft Box Girls in 2016, this day celebrates hands-on creativity and the satisfaction of making things yourself. From home projects to handmade gifts, it encourages people of all ages to embrace do-it-yourself crafting and connect through shared projects.

✂️ National DIY Day shares common themes with National Handmade Day (First Saturday in April), National Children’s Craft Day (March 14), and World Card Making Day (October).

National Ferret Day: Formally recognized in 2014 thanks to the efforts of the American Ferret Association and advocate Carol Roche, this day brings attention to ferrets as both pets and wildlife. It also highlights the endangered black-footed ferret, once thought extinct. The day honors these clever, curious creatures and the conservation efforts helping to restore their wild populations.

National Love Your Produce Manager Day: Started in 2012, this observance gives overdue appreciation to the behind-the-scenes professionals who keep our grocery store produce sections well-stocked and high-quality. Produce managers decide what fruits and vegetables are sold, ensure freshness, and manage seasonal selections. Their work supports healthy eating and food variety in our everyday lives.

National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day: Celebrating one of the most iconic sandwich combinations in the U.S., this day honors the PB&J’s journey from a luxury item to a childhood staple. The combo was first mentioned in 1901 and gained popularity after peanut butter became more affordable in the 1920s. During WWII, it became part of soldiers’ rations, solidifying its spot in American lunchboxes.

🥜 National Peanut Butter Day is celebrated earlier in the year on January 24, honoring peanut butter itself—its history, uses, and nutritional value.

National Reconciliation Day: Ann Landers, the famed advice columnist, began promoting April 2 as a day to mend broken relationships in 1989. While different reconciliation days exist globally, this version encourages individuals to take the first step toward healing strained personal relationships—whether with friends, family, or others—through communication, empathy, and renewed understanding.

❤️ National Reconciliation Day and World Kindness Day (November 13) both promote healing and connection.

National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day: Started in 2021 by horse enthusiast Dale Garwood, this fun day combines horseback riding with socializing. The idea is to saddle up and visit a local bar—reviving the spirit of the Old West. It’s a lighthearted nod to equestrian culture and a chance to celebrate riding traditions in a modern setting.

National Walking Day* (First Wednesday in April): Launched in 2007 by the American Heart Association, this day encourages people to incorporate walking into their daily routine. It promotes heart health, stress reduction, and increased physical activity. People are encouraged to take a 30-minute walk, ideally during the workday, to start or reinforce a healthy habit.

Paraprofessional Appreciation Day* (First Wednesday in April): This observance recognizes the critical work of paraprofessionals, also known as teacher aides or classroom assistants. They support educators, help students with special needs, and ensure classrooms run smoothly. Their dedication often goes unnoticed, so this day offers a chance to thank them for their vital contributions to education.

World Autism Awareness Day: Declared by the United Nations in 2008, this day brings global attention to autism spectrum disorders. It promotes acceptance, support, and the need for inclusive programs. The day raises awareness about challenges faced by individuals with autism—including communication barriers and employment struggles—and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

World Autism Awareness Day is part of a broader effort supported by days like Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March.