February 17 National Days

February 17 is the 48th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 317 days until the end of the year (318 in leap years). On this day, a mix of historical, environmental, and cultural observances take place, celebrating everything from random acts of kindness and global tourism resilience to cabbage, café au lait, and personal reflection.

With days dedicated to honoring leaders like Daisy Gatson Bates and encouraging fun traditions like crab racing, there’s something for everyone to recognize on this date.

Let’s take a look at the 12 national and international days observed on February 17!

National and International Days on February 17

Analog to Digital TV Day marks the transition from analog to digital broadcasting, a shift that took years to implement. Congress initiated the process in 1996, requiring the switch to digital transmission by February 17, 2009. The transition improved picture and sound quality, provided more channels, and introduced interactive features, shaping the way television is experienced today.

Champion Crab Races Day celebrates the quirky tradition of hermit crab racing, which began in Long Beach, Washington in the early 2000s. Organized by the National Crab Racing Association (NCRA), these races bring fun and excitement, often accompanied by seafood feasts and educational programs about marine life. The competition has since grown into a celebrated event in coastal communities.

Daisy Gatson Bates Day* (Third Monday in February) honors Daisy Gatson Bates, a civil rights leader who played a key role in integrating Little Rock Central High School in 1957. She mentored the Little Rock Nine, a group of African American students who faced strong opposition when enrolling in an all-white school. Arkansas established this holiday to recognize her contributions to equal education and racial justice.

Global Tourism Resilience Day was established by the United Nations in 2023 to promote sustainable and resilient tourism. Led by Jamaica, this initiative encourages nations to build tourism industries that can recover from global crises such as pandemics, natural disasters, and economic downturns. The day highlights the importance of preparedness, innovation, and adaptability in the tourism sector.

My Way Day encourages people to embrace individuality and do things their own way. Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy, the day promotes personal freedom and bold choices. Whether it’s starting a new hobby, making an unconventional decision, or simply having fun on your own terms, this day is all about celebrating self-expression.

National Cabbage Day highlights the nutrient-rich vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Originating in Asia Minor and the Mediterranean, cabbage is a staple in many dishes, from coleslaw to corned beef and cabbage. The day is a great excuse to experiment with recipes, especially with Celtic holidays like St. Patrick’s Day approaching.

National Café au Lait Day celebrates the classic French coffee drink, a smooth blend of brewed coffee and steamed milk. Dating back to 17th-century France, café au lait remains popular worldwide, especially in New Orleans, where it’s often enjoyed with chicory and beignets. This day invites coffee lovers to savor this comforting beverage.

☕️ Calling all coffee lovers! Explore our list of all coffee-related national days and celebrate your caffeine cravings year-round! ☕️🎉

National Public Science Day has been observed since 1989 to encourage science education and engagement. Sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, it features seminars, discussions, and hands-on learning experiences to make science more accessible to the public. The day also recognizes scientists and researchers for their contributions.

National Random Acts of Kindness Day inspires people to spread kindness through small gestures. Originating in New Zealand, this movement encourages acts such as paying for someone’s coffee, writing a thoughtful note, or offering a helping hand. Studies show that kindness benefits both the giver and the receiver, making the world a better, more compassionate place.

National Tennis Pro Day was created in 2020 to honor tennis professionals who dedicate their time to coaching and mentoring players. Whether training beginners or shaping future champions, tennis pros play a vital role in the sport. This day is a way for players and fans to show appreciation for their contributions.

Presidents’ Day* (Third Monday in February) is a U.S. federal holiday that originally celebrated George Washington’s birthday but has since expanded to honor all U.S. presidents. Established by Congress in 1968, the holiday moved to the third Monday in February to create a three-day weekend. Today, it’s marked by public ceremonies, historical reflections, and retail sales events.

Who Shall I Be Day encourages people to reflect on their future aspirations. Inspired by career guidance and motivational psychology, the day emphasizes self-discovery, goal setting, and personal development. Whether considering a career change, learning a new skill, or pursuing a dream, this day is a reminder that everyone has the power to shape their future.

These 12 national and international days observed on February 17 highlight themes of personal growth, history, sustainability, and community engagement. Whether you’re performing a kind act, enjoying a warm café au lait, or celebrating a historic figure, there are many ways to make this day meaningful!