April 8 National Days

April 8 is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years), with 267 days remaining until the end of the year. Today features 14 national and international days, honoring everything from language and animals to cybersecurity and childhood creativity. It’s a date that encourages reflection, awareness, and a little fun—whether you’re visiting a zoo, drawing a bird, or trading cards as an adult.

National and International Days on April 8

Baby Massage Day: Observed since the early 2000s, this day raises awareness of the emotional, physical, and psychological benefits of infant massage. The tradition has ancient roots in cultures like India, China, and Egypt. Today, it helps parents build deeper connections with their babies through calming touch that supports sleep, digestion, and emotional well-being.

Draw a Bird Day: Celebrated annually on Dorie Cooper’s birthday, this tradition began in 1947 after her simple request brightened the lives of wounded soldiers during WWII. The day honors Dorie’s spirit by encouraging people worldwide to draw birds as a reminder of joy, hope, and the healing power of art.

Identity Management Day* (Second Tuesday of April): Founded in 2021 by the Identity Defined Security Alliance and the National Cybersecurity Alliance, this day promotes awareness of digital identity security. With increasing risks of fraud and identity theft, it serves as a reminder for individuals and organizations to protect their online information and follow best practices.

International Be Kind to Lawyers Day* (Second Tuesday of April): This lighthearted observance, established in 2017, reminds us to appreciate lawyers for their contributions—from legal defense and estate planning to business contracts and beyond. It’s a rare moment to set aside lawyer jokes and recognize their essential roles in upholding justice and order.

International Feng Shui Awareness Day: This day promotes better understanding of the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui, which uses energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surroundings. It encourages people to explore how the arrangement of space can affect mood, energy, and prosperity.

International Pageant Day: Since 2018, this observance has celebrated women who compete in pageants while highlighting the personal development, public speaking, and community involvement often associated with pageant culture. The tradition dates back to the first Miss America contest in 1921 and the first international pageant in 1929.

National All Is Ours Day: This feel-good day invites reflection on nature, gratitude, and shared joy. People celebrate by spending time outdoors, appreciating spring blooms or local wildlife, and recognizing the many intangible gifts life has to offer. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty around us.

National Dog Fighting Awareness Day: Founded by the ASPCA in 2014, this day highlights the ongoing issue of illegal dog fighting in the U.S. and raises awareness about its connection to other criminal activities. It supports advocacy, education, and enforcement efforts to end one of the most brutal forms of animal cruelty.

National Empanada Day: This tasty holiday honors the beloved baked or fried pastry common across Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines. With roots in 7th-century Galicia and references in medieval cookbooks, empanadas are filled with savory or sweet ingredients and enjoyed in many forms around the world.

National Library Workers Day* (Tuesday of National Library Week): Founded by the American Library Association, this day recognizes the contributions of librarians and library support staff. It’s a time to appreciate their work in connecting communities with knowledge, preserving history, and fostering literacy.

National Pygmy Hippo Day: This day raises awareness about the endangered pygmy hippopotamus, primarily found in the forests of West Africa. With fewer than 2,000 left in the wild, the species faces threats from habitat destruction and poaching. The day encourages conservation efforts and protection of these elusive creatures.

National Zoo Lovers Day: Observed each April 8, this day encourages visits to zoos and appreciation for the animals and conservation work they support. Zoos play a vital role in protecting endangered species, educating the public, and providing research opportunities in animal care and biodiversity.

Step Into the Spotlight Day: This day was established in 2008 by Tsufit, author of Step Into The Spotlight! A Guide to Getting Noticed, to inspire professionals and entrepreneurs to seek visibility and growth. It’s a celebration of self-promotion and standing out in business and personal development.

Trading Cards for Grown-Ups Day: Collectors of all ages are invited to show off their trading card collections, from sports heroes to sci-fi icons. This day aims to normalize adult collecting, celebrating the nostalgia and community that comes with hobbies like baseball or Pokémon card trading.