February 21 National Days

February 21 is the 52nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 313 days until the end of the year (314 in leap years). On this day, eight national and international observances highlight language, history, food, caregiving, and cultural heritage.

From celebrating sticky buns and boiled peanuts to recognizing caregivers and preserving languages, this day offers a wide range of ways to engage, learn, and appreciate different aspects of life.

Let’s take a look at the national and international days observed on February 21!

National and International Days on February 21

Card Reading Day: This day encourages people to revisit and cherish old greeting cards, letters, and notes. Whether it’s a birthday card from a loved one, a holiday greeting, or a heartfelt message from a friend, reading past cards can bring back memories and strengthen connections. The day also highlights the greeting card industry, reminding people of the power of a handwritten note in the digital age.

International Mother Language Day: Established by UNESCO in 1999, this day promotes linguistic and cultural diversity while encouraging multilingualism. The observance originated in Bangladesh, where the date marks the 1952 Language Movement, during which students protested for the recognition of Bengali as an official language. Today, International Mother Language Day is celebrated worldwide to preserve languages and raise awareness about their importance in cultural identity and communication.

National Boiled Peanuts Day: This celebration honors one of America’s oldest snacks, particularly beloved in the Southern U.S.. Boiling peanuts has been a tradition in the South since the 1800s, with roots in West African culinary practices. Enslaved Africans introduced the method of boiling groundnuts, leading to what became known as “goober peas” in the U.S. Boiled peanuts remain a staple at roadside stands, social gatherings, and sporting events. The first National Boiled Peanuts Day will be observed in 2025, founded by Dixie Grace, a female entrepreneur dedicated to sharing this unique snack with a broader audience.

National Caregivers Day* (Third Friday in February): Established in 2015 by the Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies (PAHHHA), this day honors the dedication of caregivers who provide essential support for individuals in need. Whether in home healthcare, nursing facilities, or hospice care, caregivers make a profound impact on the well-being of their patients and families. The day recognizes their hard work, compassion, and commitment to improving lives.

National Grain-Free Day: Founded in 2019 by Siete Family Foods, this day raises awareness for those who follow a grain-free diet due to allergies, sensitivities, or other health conditions. The goal is to bring families and friends together to enjoy meals that accommodate dietary needs while celebrating inclusivity in food choices.

National Sticky Bun Day: This day celebrates sticky buns, a pastry with German origins, brought to Pennsylvania by early settlers in the 19th century. Also known as “schnecken”, meaning snail in German, these sweet, sticky rolls are made with cinnamon, brown sugar, and nuts, creating a caramelized topping when baked. Sticky buns are often enjoyed for breakfast or dessert, making them a comforting and classic treat.

World Care Day* (Third Friday in February): Originally started in Australia by the Create Foundation, this day raises awareness about children in the foster care system and those who lack stable homes. Each year, World Care Day is centered around a unique theme to highlight the challenges and experiences of children in foster care. Themes like “Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover, Embrace Our Stories Instead” (2023) and “Celebrating Every Journey” (2025) emphasize the importance of listening to and supporting foster youth.

Yukon Heritage Day 🇨🇦* (Friday before the last Sunday in February): This Canadian observance, first celebrated in 1976, honors the history and culture of the Yukon. Timed to coincide with the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Festival, the day includes sled dog races, air shows, snow sculptures, and historical exhibits. It highlights the impact of the Klondike Gold Rush, Indigenous cultures, and the early settlers who shaped the region’s history.

These 8 national and international days celebrated on February 21 recognize heritage, caregiving, language preservation, and culinary traditions. Whether you’re reading old letters, learning about foster care, enjoying sticky buns, or celebrating language diversity, this day offers meaningful ways to engage, reflect, and appreciate the past and present.