May 14 National Days

May 14 is the 134th day of the year (135th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 231 days until the end of the year. Today’s observances span everything from classic American marches and biscuits to appreciation for third-shift workers, Chihuahuas, and even root canals.

Several of today’s celebrations change dates each year and are marked with an asterisk (*), such as Donate A Day’s Wages To Charity Day, National Receptionists’ Day, and World Facilities Management Day, while the rest are fixed on May 14.

Here’s a full overview of the 16 national and international days observed on May 14.

National and International Days on May 14

Bond With Your Dog Day: Founded in 2021 by Tina Elven, a certified dog trainer and mind coach, who wanted to honor the deep emotional connection between humans and their dogs. This day reminds pet owners that meaningful bonds are built through shared moments, such as walks, playtime, and calm companionship. It also emphasizes the mental and emotional support dogs provide and encourages people to be more intentional in their time with their canine companions.

🐾 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!

Donate A Day’s Wages To Charity Day* (Second Wednesday in May): Part of the One Day’s Wages movement, launched in 2009 to empower people to make a global impact through giving. The idea is simple but powerful—donate one day’s wages to support charitable causes. Since its inception, the movement has grown internationally and has helped spotlight trustworthy organizations, amplify grassroots efforts, and build a community around everyday generosity.

International Chihuahua Appreciation Day: Started in 2020 by Nadia Alterio, a former Miss British Columbia and passionate Chihuahua advocate. She chose May 14 to align with her own dog Teaka’s birthday, using the day to raise awareness about the breed’s unique needs, promote adoption, and celebrate the big personalities of these tiny companions. It also encourages owners to share knowledge, tips, and affection for one of the world’s smallest dog breeds.

National Buttermilk Biscuit Day: Celebrates the soft, flaky quick bread that has been a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine since the 1800s. Often served with butter, syrup, or as part of a biscuits-and-gravy breakfast, these high-rising biscuits are made with baking powder or soda instead of yeast. Refrigerated biscuits were first patented in 1931 by Ballard and Ballard, further popularizing the food. While their precise origin is debated, historians point to Southern Appalachia as their likely birthplace.

National Dance Like a Chicken Day: Invites everyone to flap, strut, and wiggle along to the quirky tune known as “The Chicken Dance.” First composed in the 1950s by Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas and originally called “Der Ententanz” (The Duck Dance), it gained popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s. Although its exact founding date as a national day remains unclear, it continues to entertain people at weddings, Oktoberfests, and parties around the world.

National Decency Day: Created by the non-partisan DECENCY movement to promote civil behavior and respectful dialogue. Officially recognized in September 2017 on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, the movement began earlier that year with 535 DECENCY buttons mailed to members of Congress. The day is a call for kindness and integrity in everyday life—encouraging schools and communities to include decency in their actions and conversations.

National Receptionists’ Day* (Second Wednesday in May): Founded in 1991 by the Director of the National Receptionists Association to acknowledge the essential role receptionists play in every business. These frontline professionals create positive first impressions, manage communications, and support operations with skill and diplomacy. The day recognizes their often-overlooked contributions and fosters a sense of pride and community among receptionists nationwide.

National Third Shift Workers Day* (Second Wednesday in May): Honors the individuals who work overnight to keep essential services running. From healthcare and public safety to manufacturing and maintenance, these workers keep the world functioning while most are asleep. Jeff Corbett founded the day to celebrate night shift employees, and Velcea Kay also created a similarly named National Night Shift Workers Day to highlight the dedication and sacrifices of those who flip their days and nights.

National Travel Insurance Claims Day: Launched in 2019 by Aon Travel Practice to raise awareness about the value of travel insurance and the people who manage claims. It highlights the critical role of travel insurance in protecting travelers from disruptions, emergencies, and unexpected costs. The day also recognizes the behind-the-scenes professionals who process claims and support travelers during crises.

National Underground America Day: Founded in 1974 by Malcolm Wells, often called the father of modern earth-sheltered architecture. The day draws attention to underground and earth-integrated homes, which offer energy efficiency, stable temperatures, and environmental harmony. While this form of housing isn’t for everyone, it challenges conventional ideas of living space. Wells advocated for giving the Earth’s surface back to nature and practiced what he preached by living in an earth-sheltered home himself.

Online Romance Day: Celebrates the evolution of love in the digital age. What began with personal ads and early matchmaking services has grown into a worldwide norm thanks to platforms like Match.com and dating apps. This day, started in the early 2020s, acknowledges how online platforms have transformed the way people meet, fall in love, and form lasting connections. It’s a reminder that while the methods may change, the search for companionship remains a timeless human experience.

Root Canal Appreciation Day* (Second Wednesday in May): Created in 2005 by Dr. Chris Kramer, a dentist known for combining oral health education with music. His rap performance “Get Out the Brush” once rallied nearly 6,000 baseball fans to brush their teeth simultaneously. This lighthearted observance is a chance to recognize endodontists and the dental professionals who help save teeth through root canal therapy. It also encourages better dental hygiene and appreciation for modern dental care.

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day 🇬🇧: Highlights the needs and experiences of those living with spinal cord injuries. Launched by the Spinal Injuries Association in partnership with Aspire, Back Up, and Spinal Research, the day educates the public on the physical and emotional impacts of spinal cord injuries and supports ongoing medical research.

🩻 A related observance, Spinal Cord Injury Day, is held on September 5 globally.

Stars and Stripes Forever Day: Honors the patriotic American march composed by John Philip Sousa, which premiered on May 14, 1897, at Willow Grove Park. In 1987, Congress officially designated it as the National March of the United States. Known for its rousing melody and energetic tempo, “The Stars and Stripes Forever” remains a powerful symbol of American pride. This day celebrates Sousa’s musical legacy and the enduring role of his most famous composition in national celebrations.

World Facilities Management Day* (Wednesday of the second full week of May): Recognizes the contributions of professionals who manage and maintain buildings, from offices and hospitals to stadiums and schools. First initiated by Global FM in 2009, the date has shifted over the years but has been observed in May since 2017. The day highlights the essential work of facility managers who ensure safety, cleanliness, functionality, and comfort in our built environments.

World Stationery Day* (Wednesday of National Stationery Week): Created in 2012 by Chris Leonard-Morgan to celebrate handwriting and the emotional value of stationery in a digital age. Coinciding with the London Stationery Show, the day and its broader campaign, National Stationery Week, aim to keep the joys of pens, paper, and notebooks alive. It reminds people of the personal touch and creativity that come with putting pen to paper.