March 31 National Days

March 31 is the 90th day of the year (91st in leap years), with 275 days remaining. This day is packed with history, recognition, and creative celebrations—spanning science, technology, culture, and community. A total of 15 national and international days are observed today.

Here’s a look at the national and international days celebrated on March 31.

National and International Days on March 31

Anesthesia Tech Day: This day honors anesthesia technicians and technologists who work behind the scenes to support safe surgical procedures. These professionals help prepare and maintain the tools and equipment needed in anesthesiology, ensuring that everything runs smoothly before, during, and after medical procedures. First established in 2019 by the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT), the day also raises awareness about the career path and its critical role in modern healthcare.

Eiffel Tower Day: On March 31, we commemorate the unveiling of the Eiffel Tower in 1889—a symbol of engineering innovation and a beloved Parisian landmark. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this 1,063-foot iron tower quickly became one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Today, millions visit the Eiffel Tower each year to marvel at its structure and history, making this day a global celebration of architectural achievement.

Hug a Medievalist Day: This lighthearted observance began in 2011 as a way to celebrate those who dedicate their lives to studying the Middle Ages. From medieval literature and philosophy to architecture and music, medievalists help preserve and interpret a vital period of history. Started by Sarah Laseke, a graduate student at Oxford, the day has grown in popularity through social media, encouraging people to show appreciation and perhaps even learn something new about the medieval world.

International Transgender Day of Visibility: This day raises awareness about transgender rights and celebrates the achievements and resilience of transgender and non-binary individuals. It began gaining attention in 2014 and was officially recognized in the U.S. in 2021 by presidential proclamation. The day emphasizes visibility, equality, and the ongoing need for advocacy and support for the transgender community.

National Après Day: Founded in 2023 by Breckenridge Distillery, this celebration embraces the joy of après-ski culture—relaxing and socializing after a day of outdoor adventure. It encourages people to take time to unwind and reflect on the day’s accomplishments, whether after skiing, hiking, or any activity. The “Après Anywhere” campaign spreads the idea that you don’t have to be on the slopes to enjoy the spirit of this tradition.

National Bunsen Burner Day: March 31 honors German chemist Robert Wilhelm Eberhard von Bunsen, born in 1811, whose name lives on in science classrooms everywhere. The Bunsen burner revolutionized laboratory heating methods by providing a clean and controllable gas flame. It remains a staple in chemistry labs for experiments involving heat, combustion, and sterilization. Although some sources list Bunsen’s birthday as March 30, this day is widely used to celebrate his legacy.

National Clams on the Half Shell Day: This seafood-themed day recognizes a classic way to enjoy fresh clams—served raw or lightly cooked on their shells. Clams Casino, a famous half-shell dish topped with bacon and breadcrumbs, is believed to have originated at the Little Casino in Narragansett, Rhode Island, in 1917. The day celebrates this preparation method that has become a staple in many coastal cuisines.

National Crayon Day: Each March 31, kids and adults alike celebrate the colorful world of crayons. The modern wax crayon was introduced by Edwin Binney of Binney & Smith (later Crayola) in 1903, offering children safe, colorful tools for creative expression. Crayons have long been a gateway to imagination and artistic development, making this day a favorite for classrooms and families alike.

National Farm Workers Day: This day honors the essential contributions of farm laborers who work tirelessly to bring food from the fields to our tables. Often performing physically demanding tasks under challenging conditions, farm workers play a critical role in agriculture and food production. March 31 is a time to recognize their dedication and the need for fair treatment and improved working conditions.

National Prom Day: Established in 2016 by PromGirl, this day celebrates the joy, style, and memories associated with prom night. It also serves as a time to encourage confidence and individuality while promoting safety and empowerment. The day supports Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and continues its giving tradition with organizations like Garden of Dreams.

🌟 National Promposal Day is observed on March 11, dedicated to creative and memorable prom invitations.

National She’s Funny That Way Day: This day recognizes the wit and humor of women who make us laugh—both professionally and in our everyday lives. Inspired by the book She’s Funny That Way by Brenda Meridith, the day honors female comedians, friends, family members, and co-workers who bring joy through humor. Watching comedy specials or sharing jokes are popular ways to celebrate.

National Tater Day: Tater Day celebrates the humble potato, a staple food with endless culinary uses. From fries to baked potatoes and everything in between, Americans consume more potatoes than any other vegetable. While this version of Tater Day focuses on all types of potatoes, it has roots in Kentucky, where sweet potatoes were once traded and sold at a springtime market dating back to the 1840s.

🥔 National Potato Day on August 19 is another day focused on celebrating all things potato.

Seward’s Day* (Last Monday in March): Observed in Alaska, this legal holiday commemorates the signing of the 1867 Alaska Purchase treaty. Named after Secretary of State William H. Seward, who negotiated the deal with Russia, the day falls on the last Monday in March.

🏔️ Alaska Day, which also commemorates the Alaska Purchase, is celebrated on October 18 and marks the official transfer of the territory to the United States.

Transfer Day: Transfer Day, observed in the U.S. Virgin Islands on March 31, commemorates the 1917 transfer of the islands from Danish to U.S. control. Although negotiations had begun much earlier, global politics and wartime economics delayed the deal. Today, the holiday is marked with ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the islands.

World Backup Day: Just one day before April Fools’, this observance serves as a timely reminder to back up your digital data. Losing cherished photos or essential documents due to a tech failure can be devastating. World Backup Day encourages individuals and businesses to create reliable backups to avoid becoming the next cautionary tale. It began as a month-long campaign by hard drive company Maxtor, later acquired by Seagate.

Which of these observances will you be celebrating today? 😊

National Days in March

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