March 17 National Days

March 17 is the 76th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 289 days until the end of the year (290 in leap years). On this day, seven national and international celebrations take place, covering history, culture, health, and well-being.

From celebrating Irish heritage on St. Patrick’s Day to recognizing the importance of doctor-patient trust and the vitality of aging well, March 17 offers a variety of ways to engage and reflect.

National and International Days on March 17

St. Patrick’s Day: Honoring the patron saint of Ireland, this widely celebrated holiday originated as a religious feast in the early 17th century. St. Patrick, credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, is said to have used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. The day is marked by wearing green, parades, and cultural festivities. It is a public holiday in Ireland and is observed worldwide by the Irish diaspora.

Act Happy Day* (Third Monday in March): Created by Dr. Dale Anderson in 2004, this day is based on the idea that acting happy can lead to real happiness. Dr. Anderson, a specialist in biomechanical medicine, believed that starting the day with laughter releases endorphins and improves well-being. He encouraged people to fake a smile, engage in joyful activities, and surround themselves with positivity. The day serves as a reminder that attitude plays a crucial role in mental and emotional health.

Camp Fire Girls Day: Established in 1910 by Dr. Luther Halsey Gulick and Charlotte Vetter Gulick, this day celebrates the founding of the Camp Fire Girls organization. Originally created to provide girls with outdoor learning opportunities and leadership development, the group later became co-ed in 1975, evolving into Camp Fire USA. The day honors the organization’s legacy of inclusivity, personal growth, and community service.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Day: This food holiday coincides with St. Patrick’s Day in the U.S. and highlights the traditional Irish-American dish. Historically, Irish immigrants in America substituted corned beef for the bacon used in Ireland due to its affordability. The dish, often served with boiled potatoes and carrots, has since become a staple of Irish-American celebrations, symbolizing cultural heritage and resilience.

Doctor-Patient Trust Day: First observed in 2003, this day emphasizes the importance of trust between doctors and patients. Effective communication and mutual respect lead to better medical outcomes and patient satisfaction. The observance reflects on historical advancements in patient care, from the 1910 Flexner Report’s influence on medical education to modern electronic health records improving transparency. It serves as a reminder that trust is fundamental to high-quality healthcare.

Evacuation Day: Commemorating March 17, 1776, this day marks the British army’s withdrawal from Boston during the American Revolution. General George Washington’s successful fortification of Dorchester Heights forced the British to evacuate, securing a major victory for the Continental Army. The event boosted American morale and cemented Washington’s leadership. The holiday is primarily observed in Massachusetts, where it coincides with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Wellderly Day* (Third Monday in March): Founded by Dr. Dale Anderson, this observance promotes the idea that aging should be filled with vitality, laughter, and engagement. Rather than focusing on life span, Wellderly Day encourages people to prioritize health span—living actively and joyfully for as long as possible. Communities celebrate by organizing wellness events, exercise programs, and social gatherings to support seniors in maintaining an enriched and fulfilling life.

These national and international observances on March 17 offer a diverse range of celebrations, from history and culture to health and personal well-being. Whether honoring Irish traditions, fostering doctor-patient relationships, or embracing the joys of aging, the day presents numerous opportunities for reflection and participation.

Which of these observances will you be celebrating today?

National Days in March

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