March 21 National Days

March 21 is the 80th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 285 days until the end of the year (286 in leap years). On this day, 34 national and international celebrations take place, covering nature, science, literature, health, food, history, and cultural traditions.

From honoring the importance of forests and poetry to celebrating Aries season, crunchy tacos, and renewable energy, March 21 presents many ways to engage with the world around us.

National and International Days on March 21

Big Bang Day: This day commemorates one of the most significant scientific theories explaining the origins of the universe. First officially celebrated in 2013, it was inspired by the European Space Agency’s release of an all-sky map of cosmic microwave background radiation, providing more precise data about the early universe. Scientists such as Georges Lemaître, who first proposed the Big Bang theory in 1927, and Edwin Hubble, who provided observational proof, revolutionized our understanding of cosmic expansion.

Credit Card Reduction Day: Introduced in 2016 by Holiday Insights, this day raises awareness about the dangers of credit card debt and promotes responsible financial habits. Credit cards can be useful tools when managed wisely, but high-interest rates and poor financial planning can lead to significant debt. Observing this day encourages individuals to review their finances, develop a debt repayment plan, and work towards long-term financial security.

Education Freedom Day: Established by the Digital Freedom Foundation in 2013, this observance promotes the use of free educational resources and open-source software in learning. Education Freedom Day highlights the benefits of accessible, high-quality learning materials for students, teachers, and communities worldwide. It encourages educators to embrace digital resources that reduce barriers to education and foster lifelong learning.

International Colour Day / International Day of Colour: This day celebrates the science, psychology, and cultural significance of color. Proposed in 2008 by the Portuguese Color Association and recognized by the International Colour Association in 2009, the observance aligns with the equinox, symbolizing the balance of light and darkness. Color influences mood, perception, and artistic expression, making it an essential aspect of daily life. Events on this day encourage people to explore how color enhances creativity, communication, and design.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966, this day commemorates the victims of the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa on March 21, 1960. The tragedy, in which police killed 69 peaceful protesters opposing apartheid laws, serves as a reminder of the consequences of racial discrimination. The observance calls for action against racism and inequality, encouraging policies and education to promote social justice and human rights worldwide.

International Day of Forests / World Forestry Day: First proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1971 and officially designated by the United Nations in 2012, this day raises awareness about the importance of forests in sustaining biodiversity, climate regulation, and human livelihoods. Forests cover nearly one-third of the planet, providing oxygen, shelter, food, and medicine for billions of people. Deforestation threatens ecosystems and contributes to climate change, making conservation efforts critical. Activities on this day focus on tree planting, reforestation, and sustainable forestry practices.

International Day of Nowruz: Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, marks the Persian New Year and has been celebrated for over 3,000 years across Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Recognized by the United Nations in 2010, this holiday symbolizes renewal, peace, and unity. Families gather for festive meals, traditional music, and the setting of a “Haft-Seen” table, which includes symbolic items representing prosperity, health, and rebirth.

National Aries Day / Aries Season Begins: This day marks the beginning of Aries season in astrology. Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, is ruled by Mars and symbolized by the ram, representing energy, confidence, and leadership. Those born under this sign, from March 21 to April 19, are known for their bold and adventurous nature. Many celebrate by sharing astrology insights, reading horoscopes, and embracing Aries’ fiery spirit.

National California Strawberry Day: This observance marks the official start of strawberry season in California, one of the largest producers of strawberries in the United States. First celebrated in 1983 by the California Strawberry Commission, the day encourages people to enjoy fresh strawberries, known for their rich vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. It also highlights the importance of sustainable farming practices to ensure the availability of this beloved fruit.

National Common Courtesy Day: Created in 2003, this day reminds people to practice politeness and respect in daily interactions. Simple acts of courtesy, such as saying “please” and “thank you,” holding the door for others, and showing kindness, contribute to a more harmonious society. Schools, workplaces, and communities use this day to emphasize the importance of good manners and mutual respect.

National Countdown Day: Introduced in 2018, this day celebrates the anticipation that comes with counting down to exciting events. Whether it’s waiting for a vacation, a holiday, a wedding, or a rocket launch, countdowns build anticipation and excitement. The date, 03/21, represents a countdown itself, making it a fun and engaging way to mark the passage of time toward special moments.

National Crunchy Taco Day: Celebrating the crunchy taco, a Tex-Mex favorite, this day honors the combination of crispy shells, seasoned fillings, cheese, and fresh toppings. It was established to coincide with the anniversary of Taco Bell’s first restaurant opening on March 21, 1962. Many people use the occasion as an excuse to enjoy tacos at home or at their favorite Mexican restaurants.

National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange: First observed in 2012, this day advocates for harm reduction programs that provide sterile syringes to individuals who use injection drugs. These programs help prevent the spread of HIV, hepatitis C, and other infections. Public health organizations emphasize the effectiveness of syringe exchange services in promoting safety, reducing stigma, and supporting addiction recovery.

National Flower Day: Timed to coincide with the start of spring, this day highlights the beauty and significance of flowers. Flowers have been symbols of love, celebration, and remembrance for centuries, playing a role in art, literature, and cultural traditions. Whether through gifting, gardening, or simply appreciating nature, this day encourages people to embrace the vibrancy of flowers.

National Fragrance Day: Originating in the early 1980s from perfume manufacturers, this day recognizes the powerful connection between scent and memory. From fresh spring blooms to the comforting smell of baked goods, fragrances evoke emotions and shape experiences. Perfume brands, candle makers, and aromatherapy specialists often use this day to showcase the benefits of scents in enhancing well-being.

National French Bread Day: Dedicated to the beloved baguette, this day honors the long-standing tradition of French bread baking. The modern baguette originated in the 1920s when a new labor law limited bakers’ working hours, leading to the creation of a thinner, faster-baking loaf. Today, the baguette remains a staple in French cuisine and a favorite worldwide.

National Future Generations Day* (Third Friday in March): This observance serves as a reminder of our responsibility to safeguard the well-being of future generations. Established by the Moore Institute at OHSU, this day highlights how decisions in health, education, and environmental policy shape the future. Research in epigenetics has shown that lifestyle choices today can impact the health of future generations, making awareness and action essential for long-term societal well-being.

National Healthy Fats Day: Created to raise awareness about the role of healthy fats in a balanced diet, this day aims to correct the misconception that all fats are bad. Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, play an essential role in brain function, hormone regulation, and overall well-being. Observing this day encourages informed dietary choices and promotes the benefits of incorporating good fats into meals.

National Memory Day: This day recognizes the power and limitations of human memory. While memory enables learning, storytelling, and the preservation of personal and cultural history, conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia threaten this cognitive function. National Memory Day encourages awareness, research, and support for those affected by memory-related disorders, as well as appreciation for the importance of keeping memories alive through writing, photography, and meaningful conversations.

National Preschool Teachers Appreciation Day* (Third Friday in March): Honoring the dedication and impact of preschool educators, this day acknowledges their role in shaping young minds during critical early years. Research shows that early childhood education significantly influences academic success, social skills, and emotional development. By recognizing preschool teachers, this day highlights the importance of providing resources and support for early learning environments.

National Renewable Energy Day: Established in 2004, this day emphasizes the need for sustainable energy solutions to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. With growing concerns about climate change, renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power offer cleaner alternatives. This observance promotes awareness, innovation, and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies to create a more sustainable future.

National Single Parent Day: Created to honor the dedication and sacrifices of single parents, this day recognizes the challenges of raising children alone while balancing work, finances, and family life. Established in 1984 by Janice Moglen in collaboration with Parents Without Partners, the date coincides with the founding of the organization on March 21, 1957. President Ronald Reagan officially proclaimed March 21 as National Single Parent Day in 1984, encouraging recognition and support for single-parent households.

National Teenager Day: This day celebrates the experiences, challenges, and achievements of teenagers. Adolescence is a time of personal growth, self-discovery, and emotional development. National Teenager Day promotes positive engagement with teens, encouraging parents, educators, and communities to offer support, guidance, and appreciation for their contributions to society. It also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the evolving challenges faced by modern teenagers, such as social media influences and academic pressures.

Red Nose Day: Originating in the United Kingdom in 1988 and introduced to the United States in 2015, Red Nose Day is a charity event focused on ending child poverty. Organized by Comic Relief, it raises funds through donations, events, and entertainment broadcasts. The campaign uses humor and fun to bring awareness to serious issues affecting children worldwide, including hunger, education access, and health care.

Rosie the Riveter Day: Established in 2017 by the U.S. Congress, this day honors the women who worked in factories, shipyards, and other industrial roles during World War II. These women, known as “Rosies,” played a vital role in the war effort by filling jobs traditionally held by men. The iconic “We Can Do It!” poster symbolizes female empowerment and workplace equality. Rosie the Riveter Day serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and contributions of women in shaping history.

Slytherin Pride Day: Celebrated by “Harry Potter” fans, this day recognizes the Hogwarts house known for ambition, cunning, and resourcefulness. Slytherin, one of the four houses in the wizarding school, has been both admired and misunderstood. Fans take this opportunity to embrace the house’s values and discuss their favorite moments from J.K. Rowling’s magical series.

Spring Fairy Fun Day: Inspired by ancient spring festivals and folklore, this whimsical celebration embraces the magic of nature, fairies, and new beginnings. Many cultures associate fairies with seasonal transitions, particularly spring, when flowers bloom and life renews. The day encourages creative expression through storytelling, costumes, and outdoor activities that capture the spirit of enchantment.

Tiramisu Day: First celebrated in 2017, Tiramisu Day honors the beloved Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa. Italian food writers Clara and Gigi Padovani established this observance to highlight tiramisu’s history and its role as a staple of Italian cuisine. The date aligns with the arrival of spring, making it the perfect time to enjoy a rich and uplifting treat.

Twitter Day: Commemorating the launch of Twitter on March 21, 2006, this day recognizes the impact of social media on communication and information sharing. Originally a microblogging platform, Twitter revolutionized how people engage with news, politics, and global events in real time. In 2023, the platform rebranded as “X,” reflecting a shift toward broader digital services. Twitter Day celebrates the evolution of social networking and its influence on modern communication.

World Tattoo Day: This observance celebrates the art, history, and cultural significance of tattoos. First observed in 2015, the day recognizes tattoo artists, enthusiasts, and the evolving role of body art in society. Tattoos have been a form of self-expression for thousands of years, from ancient tribal markings to modern artistic designs. This day promotes appreciation for tattoo culture and the craftsmanship behind permanent ink.

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD): Recognized by the United Nations since 2012, this day raises awareness about Down syndrome and promotes inclusion, advocacy, and research. The date, 3/21, symbolizes the presence of three copies of chromosome 21, which causes the condition. Events worldwide encourage understanding, support, and empowerment for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

World Poetry Day: Established by UNESCO in 1999, this observance highlights poetry’s role in cultural expression, storytelling, and social commentary. Poetry has been a fundamental part of human history, influencing literature, politics, and personal identity. World Poetry Day encourages people to explore, write, and share poetry, celebrating its ability to capture emotions and ideas in powerful ways.

World Puppetry Day: Created in 2002 by the Union Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA), this day honors the ancient art of puppetry, which dates back to at least the 5th century BCE. Puppetry has played an important role in storytelling, entertainment, and education across different cultures. From shadow puppets in Asia to marionettes in Europe, puppets bring stories to life in ways that connect with audiences of all ages.

World Vermouth Day: Created by Giancarlo Mancino, this day celebrates the rich history of vermouth, an aromatized, fortified wine that has been a staple in cocktails like the Manhattan, Martini, and Negroni. The word “vermouth” comes from the German term for wormwood, a key ingredient in early recipes. This observance encourages appreciation for the drink’s complexity, history, and versatility in mixology.

These 34 national and international observances on March 21 showcase a mix of science, culture, education, and everyday joys. Whether you are reflecting on history, enjoying a fresh baguette, or marveling at the universe, this day offers countless ways to connect and celebrate.

Which of these observances will you be celebrating today? 😊

National Days in March

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