March 1 National Days

March 1 marks the 60th day of the year, leaving 305 days remaining (306 in leap years). This day brings 30 national and international observances, covering a range of topics from historical events and environmental awareness to food, animals, and social causes.

Whether it’s celebrating the contributions of Black women in jazz, honoring baristas, appreciating seagrass ecosystems, or planning a solo vacation, there’s something for everyone on this day.

Below is a comprehensive list of national and international observances on March 1.

National and International Days on March 1

Endometriosis Awareness Day: This awareness day highlights endometriosis, a painful condition affecting millions of women worldwide. First recognized in 1993 by the Endometriosis Association, the day aims to educate the public, promote early diagnosis, and encourage medical research. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to severe pain, infertility, and other complications. Since many women go undiagnosed for years, this day serves as a crucial reminder to increase awareness and improve treatment options.

Georgia Beer Day* (Date Varies): This annual celebration, established in 2021 by the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild (GCBG), showcases the craft beer industry in Georgia. Breweries across the state participate by offering special releases, events, and collector’s pint glasses designed by local artists. Proceeds from these sales support the GCBG’s mission to promote and protect Georgia’s independent breweries.

International Open Data Day* (First Saturday in March): This day promotes transparency, innovation, and collaboration through freely accessible data. Launched in 2010 by David Eaves, this initiative highlights the importance of open data in solving global challenges. Events include hackathons, workshops, and discussions on how data can improve healthcare, environmental protection, and urban planning.

International Wheelchair Day: Celebrated since 2008, this day recognizes the positive impact of wheelchairs on the lives of individuals with mobility challenges. Events worldwide promote accessibility, disability rights, and appreciation for caregivers and organizations that support wheelchair users. The observance also raises awareness about the millions of people worldwide who need a wheelchair but lack access to one.

International Women of Color Day: Founded by the National Institute for Women of Color (NIWC) to honor the contributions and achievements of women of color across various fields. Established in 1981, the day highlights the impact of diverse women in shaping culture, politics, education, and social movements. Recognized in 25 U.S. states and five other countries, this day also celebrates supporters of women of color, including organizations and allies advocating for racial and gender equality. Events include awards ceremonies, panel discussions, and cultural showcases that recognize outstanding achievements.

National Barista Day: Founded by Almond Breeze, this day honors the hardworking professionals behind coffee bars. The word “barista” originates from Italy, where it refers to bartenders who serve both coffee and alcoholic beverages. In the U.S., baristas are recognized for their skill, dedication, and ability to craft exceptional coffee drinks. This day not only appreciates their work but also highlights the growing coffee culture worldwide.

🍸 By the way, World Bartender Day was recently celebrated on February 24th, honoring the talent and craft of bartenders around the world! 🎉🥂✨

National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day: Established in 2016 by the Black Women in Jazz & the Arts Awards, this day celebrates the contributions of Black women in music, visual arts, and performance. Many of these women have historically faced barriers in male-dominated industries, yet they have played a crucial role in shaping jazz and other artistic movements. By aligning with Women’s History Month, this observance encourages recognition and appreciation for their talent and legacy.

National Dadgum That’s Good Day: Founded in 2015 by Masterbuilt, this day celebrates delicious food and family gatherings. Inspired by the catchphrase “Dadgum, That’s Good!” from Southern chef John McLemore, the day encourages home cooking, grilling, and sharing meals with loved ones. Food enthusiasts participate by trying new recipes, hosting cookouts, and appreciating traditional Southern cuisine.

National Fruit Compote Day: This day celebrates fruit compote, a dessert that originated in 17th-century France. The word “compote” means “mixture“, referring to the blend of cooked fruit, sugar, and spices. Once considered a remedy to balance the body’s humidity, compote became popular across Europe and Jewish households. Today, it is served warm or chilled over yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream.

National Horse Protection Day: Founded in 2005 by Colleen Page, this observance raises awareness about the neglect, abuse, and abandonment of horses. Once vital to agriculture, transportation, and therapy, many horses today face uncertain futures. Organizations across the U.S. use this day to promote rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption programs, ensuring these animals receive the care they deserve.

National Hotel Slipper Day: Launched by Hotels.com in 2019, this fun observance celebrates the cozy comfort of hotel slippers. Inspired by celebrities like Justin Bieber, who popularized wearing hotel slippers in public, the day encourages people to embrace small luxuries that bring comfort and relaxation. Many hotels participate by offering special promotions and giveaways, and social media users share their favorite hotel slippers using #NationalHotelSlipperDay. The day serves as a lighthearted reminder to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

National March First Day: Founded in 2020 by Alicea Joy Davis, a spoken-word poet and racial reconciliation advocate, this day is about self-improvement, breaking generational cycles, and embracing personal growth. Davis envisioned the day as an opportunity for people to “march first” into their future by leaving behind past obstacles and moving toward a better version of themselves. The day serves as a motivational push to take action, whether through personal development, goal setting, or embracing a new perspective on life.

National Minnesota Day: Minnesota, the 32nd state in the U.S., is celebrated for its natural beauty, lakes, and cultural heritage. Admitted to the Union on May 11, 1858, it is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” and is home to rich Scandinavian and Native American traditions. This day honors Minnesota’s history, people, and contributions to the country.

National Mountain Hare Day: This day was created in response to conservation efforts in Scotland, where the mountain hare has faced significant population declines due to habitat loss and hunting. In 2021, new regulations were introduced to protect mountain hares, making it illegal to kill, injure, or capture them without a license. National Mountain Hare Day raises awareness about the importance of protecting this species, which plays a vital role in Scotland’s ecosystem.

National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day: First observed in 1990, this day commemorates the popularity and versatility of peanut butter. Introduced in the 1890s as a protein source for people with chewing difficulties, peanut butter has become a staple in American households. The observance encourages people to enjoy peanut butter in various forms, from sandwiches and desserts to savory dishes.

🥜 A similar celebration, National Peanut Butter Day, takes place annually on January 24th, honoring this creamy (or crunchy!) favorite! 🎉🥪✨

National Pig Day: Established in 1972 by Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave, this day celebrates the intelligence and importance of pigs. Often underestimated, pigs are among the most intelligent domesticated animals, capable of learning tricks and solving problems. Celebrations include pig parades, farm visits, and educational events to raise awareness of their role in agriculture and human history.

National Play Outside Day* (First Saturday of Every Month): This recurring observance reminds people to step away from screens and enjoy outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking, biking, playing sports, or simply spending time in nature, the day encourages everyone to embrace fresh air and physical movement. Studies show that outdoor play helps reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance creativity, making it an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

National Sunkist® Citrus Day: Recognized annually on March 1, this day honors California’s citrus industry and its multi-generational family farms. Founded in 1893, Sunkist is a cooperative of more than 1,500 citrus growers in California and Arizona. The day celebrates the nutritional benefits of citrus fruits and their impact on the agricultural industry.

National Texas Stress Day: Established in 2021 by Texas Stress Inc., this day was created to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the company, which specializes in industrial heating services for refineries and chemical plants. The company wanted to use this occasion to reflect on its growth, teamwork, and contributions to various industries. National Texas Stress Day highlights the importance of workplace resilience, collaboration, and the dedication of professionals in specialized fields.

National Wedding Planning Day: Founded in 2017 by The Knot, this day marks the start of wedding planning season. With engagement season peaking between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day, March 1 serves as a reminder for newly engaged couples to begin organizing their big day. The Knot and other wedding professionals offer tips, resources, and inspiration to help couples navigate venue selection, budgeting, and vendor coordination. The day promotes stress-free and enjoyable wedding planning, ensuring couples have enough time to bring their dream wedding to life.

💍 While we don’t focus much on weddings, we’ve put together a list of the best wedding fonts you can use in Canva to add a beautiful touch to your special day! ✨

National Welsh Corgi Day: Founded in 2019 by Connie Maue, this day celebrates the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis, two breeds known for their short legs, intelligence, and playful personalities. Originally bred as herding dogs in Wales, Corgis have gained global popularity, especially due to their association with British royalty. Queen Elizabeth II owned over 30 Corgis during her lifetime. The day encourages Corgi owners and dog lovers to appreciate and celebrate this charming breed.

🐾 For more dogs, cats, and pets national days, visit the dedicated pages or use the search feature on our website to find exactly what you’re looking for!

Peace Corps Day: On March 1, 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed Executive Order 10924, officially establishing the Peace Corps. This day honors the volunteers who dedicate their time to serving in developing countries, promoting world peace, cultural exchange, and community development. The first group of Peace Corps volunteers began serving in 13 countries, including Ghana and Tanzania, in 1961. Today, Peace Corps volunteers work in over 60 countries, focusing on areas like education, health, agriculture, and economic development. Peace Corps Day serves as a reminder of global service and the impact of grassroots diplomacy.

Plan A Solo Vacation Day: This observance encourages people to take a break from routine and travel solo. Traveling alone provides opportunities for self-discovery, independence, and new experiences. The day reminds individuals that solo vacations can be just as rewarding as group trips, offering flexibility, personal growth, and adventure.

Public Risk Management Awareness Day: Launched in 2019 by the Port of Corpus Christi Authority in Texas, this day recognizes the work of public risk management professionals. These experts help identify, assess, and mitigate risks in public entities such as municipalities, schools, and state agencies. The day aims to educate the public about the importance of risk management, ensuring safer and more resilient communities.

Refired, Not Retired Day: Created by Phyllis May, this observance encourages retirees to embrace new adventures, passions, and opportunitiesinstead of viewing retirement as a time to slow down. After retiring at 55 and moving to Key West, Florida, May wanted to challenge traditional ideas about aging and inspire others to stay active, creative, and engaged. The day promotes lifelong learning, entrepreneurship, volunteering, and personal reinvention, emphasizing that retirement can be a new beginning rather than an end.

Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD): SIAD raises awareness about self-harm and promotes understanding, support, and resources for those affected. Self-injury, which includes cutting, scratching, or burning, is often a coping mechanism for emotional distress. The day encourages open conversations, reduces stigma, and highlights the importance of mental health support. Many people wear orange ribbons or write “LOVE” on their arms to show solidarity. The ultimate goal is to educate the public, encourage those struggling to seek help, and promote mental well-being.

Share a Smile Day: Founded in 1997, this day promotes spreading joy and kindness through smiles. Smiling has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, boost mood, and even lower blood pressure. The idea behind Share a Smile Day is simple—one smile can brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity.

Similar observances include World Smile Day on first Friday in October and National Smile Power Day in June.

World Compliment Day: Created by Hans Poortvliet in 2001, this day encourages people to spread positivity through genuine compliments. Unlike other commercialized holidays, World Compliment Day is entirely free—the only requirement is to give meaningful, heartfelt praise. Poortvliet’s vision was to create “The Most Positive Day in the World”, where everyone feels appreciated and valued.

World Seagrass Day: Established by the United Nations in 2022, this day highlights the importance of seagrass meadows in marine ecosystems. Covering less than 0.2% of the ocean floor, seagrass plays a crucial role in carbon storage, coastal protection, and marine biodiversity. Conservation efforts focus on preventing pollution, restoring degraded seagrass beds, and raising awareness about their ecological benefits.

Zero Discrimination Day: Established by the United Nations in 2013, this annual observance promotes equality, inclusion, and human rights for all individuals. First celebrated in 2014, the day was launched by UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé in Beijing to raise awareness about discrimination in various forms—including race, gender, disability, and HIV/AIDS stigma. The goal is to create a world free of prejudice, where people are treated with respect and dignity regardless of their background. Organizations worldwide use this day to advocate for policy changes and encourage acts of inclusivity.

March 1 is packed with 30 diverse and meaningful observances. Whether honoring historical figures, raising awareness for social issues, or simply celebrating food and animals, this day offers a chance to learn, appreciate, and take action.

Which of these observances will you be celebrating today?