March 26 National Days

March 26 is the 85th day of the year (86th in leap years), leaving 280 days remaining in the calendar. As spring continues to unfold, this day brings 16 national and international observances.

From appreciating solitude and science to celebrating sneakers, nougat, and spinach, March 26 offers moments of reflection, creativity, and plenty of flavor.

Here’s a look at the national and international days celebrated on March 26.

National and International Days on March 26

Air Max Day: This day celebrates one of Nike’s most iconic sneaker designs: the Air Max. First released on March 26, 1987, the Air Max 1 revolutionized athletic shoes with its visible air cushioning, thanks to designer Tinker Hatfield. Inspired by contemporary architecture, Hatfield’s design helped propel Nike into a new era of style and comfort.

American Red Cross Giving Day* (Fourth Wednesday in March): This observance highlights the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross, encouraging people to donate, volunteer, and support humanitarian efforts. First observed in 2015, Giving Day falls during Red Cross Month and serves as a reminder of the organization’s global and domestic commitment to helping people in times of disaster or crisis.

Epilepsy Awareness Day / Purple Day: Launched in 2008 by Canadian Cassidy Megan, Purple Day spreads awareness about epilepsy and fights stigma through education and solidarity. On this day, people wear purple to show support for the 50 million people around the world living with this neurological condition. Events, fundraisers, and educational programs help dispel myths and promote understanding of epilepsy’s many forms and treatments.

Good Hair Day: Created by the hair styling brand G.H.D. (Good Hair Day) in 2020, this day encourages women to embrace confidence and beauty through self-care. A great hair day can boost self-esteem, and G.H.D. uses this celebration to remind people that empowerment often starts with feeling good in your own skin — or hair. It’s a lighthearted yet meaningful opportunity to feel fabulous and celebrate the impact of small things on how we show up in the world.

International Data Center Day* (Third or Fourth Wednesday in March): This day highlights the physical backbone of our digital world. Organized by 7×24 Exchange International, it aims to educate students and aspiring tech professionals about careers in data centers — the secure facilities that store, process, and distribute our digital information. With open house events and educational outreach, it shines a spotlight on an industry vital to modern life and encourages a new generation to explore its growing opportunities.

Live Long and Prosper Day: Inspired by Leonard Nimoy’s iconic “Star Trek” character, Mr. Spock, this day is all about health, well-being, and prosperity. The famous Vulcan blessing, “Live long and prosper,” became a cultural catchphrase and even earned its own emoji. March 26, Nimoy’s birthday, honors his legacy and encourages people to do something that makes their lives more meaningful, peaceful, or joyful.

Make Up Your Own Holiday Day: March 26 gives everyone a chance to unleash creativity by inventing a brand-new holiday. Started by holiday expert Jace Shoemaker-Galloway in the early 2000s, this observance invites people to have fun, get quirky, and celebrate whatever brings them joy — from celebrating your favorite color to your love for your cat. All it takes is an idea, a name, and the joy of inventing something worth observing.

Manatee Appreciation Day* (Last Wednesday in March): This day draws attention to the gentle, slow-moving manatee — often called the sea cow. With no natural predators, manatees are mainly threatened by human activity such as boat collisions and habitat destruction. Conservationists use this day to educate the public about protecting these endangered marine mammals, who spend their lives gliding through warm coastal waters while munching on aquatic plants.

National Governance Professionals Day* (Last Wednesday in March): Launched in 2023 by the Governance Professionals of Canada, this day honors those who ensure ethical, transparent, and responsible decision-making in organizations. Governance professionals — including corporate secretaries and compliance officers — play a vital role in guiding boards, managing risks, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their work strengthens the accountability and trust that organizations rely on.

National Little Red Wagon Day* (Last Wednesday in March): Established by Radio Flyer in honor of its 100th anniversary, this day celebrates the timeless toy that has carried generations of children on outdoor adventures. The iconic red wagon is more than a toy — it’s a symbol of play, imagination, and childhood freedom. On this day, families are encouraged to get outside, play together, and make new memories with a classic favorite.

National Nougat Day: This day celebrates the chewy confection made from sugar or honey, whipped egg whites, and roasted nuts like almonds or pistachios. Nougat has ancient roots, with early versions called nāṭif appearing in the Middle East as early as the 10th century. The name “nougat” comes from the Occitan word nogat, meaning “nutty.” Nougat is a key ingredient in many popular candy bars and is enjoyed around the world in various forms.

National Science Appreciation Day: Created in 2022 by the Center for Inquiry’s ScienceSaves campaign, this day celebrates the role of science in improving lives. March 26 was chosen to commemorate Jonas Salk’s 1953 announcement of the first successful polio vaccine. From medical breakthroughs to climate research, science touches every aspect of modern life. This day encourages gratitude for scientists and promotes evidence-based thinking in education and public policy.

National Solitude Day: Solitude, often misunderstood, offers space for reflection, rest, and personal growth. National Solitude Day challenges the idea that being alone is negative. Instead, it highlights the mental health benefits of spending time with oneself. Whether you carve out a few minutes or a few hours, this day encourages peaceful introspection, creativity, and recharging your energy.

National Spinach Day: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and antioxidants, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. Originating in ancient Persia and later popularized in Europe by Queen Catherine de Medici, spinach has earned its place in world cuisine. From salads to smoothies to classic Florentine dishes, this day invites people to embrace leafy greens and their many health benefits.

🌱 A similar celebration, Fresh Spinach Day, takes place on July 16.

Whole Grain Sampling Day* (Last Wednesday of March): Launched by the Oldways Whole Grains Council, this observance encourages people to explore and enjoy more whole grains in their diet. Whole grains like oats, quinoa, brown rice, and barley are rich in fiber and nutrients and have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic disease. Events and food samples across grocery stores, schools, and community centers help people discover new favorites.

World Maths Day: Founded in 2007 by 3P Learning, World Maths Day brings millions of students from around the globe together to participate in math-based games and challenges. This online event makes learning fun while helping students sharpen problem-solving and arithmetic skills. It’s an engaging way to celebrate the power and universality of math.

March 26 is a day filled with 16 celebrations — from appreciating the wonders of science and solitude to exploring new holidays, supporting charitable causes, and enjoying delicious treats. It’s a perfect day to get inspired, learn something new, or simply enjoy a good pair of sneakers or a leafy green dish.

Which of these observances will you be celebrating today? 😊

National Days in March

March 1 | March 2 | March 3 | March 4 | March 5 | March 6 | March 7 | March 8 | March 9 | March 10 | March 11 | March 12 | March 13 | March 14 | March 15 | March 16 | March 17 | March 18 | March 19 | March 20 | March 21 | March 22 | March 23 | March 24 | March 25 | March 26 | March 27 | March 28 | March 29 | March 30 | March 31