May 6 National Days

May 3 is the 123rd day of the year (124th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, leaving 242 days until the end of the year. The 11 national and international observances today highlight everything from nursing and teaching to body image, asthma awareness, and culinary traditions.

Several observances, such as National Teacher Day, World Asthma Day, and Poem on Your Pillow Day, change each year based on weekday placement. The rest are fixed on May 3.

Here’s a full overview of the national and international days celebrated on May 6th.

National and International Days on May 6

Childhood Depression Awareness Day * (First Tuesday in May): Launched by the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, this observance raises awareness about childhood depression and its effects on young lives. The day was founded by a group of parents seeking better understanding and care for their children and led to the creation of the Green Ribbon Campaign in 2015. It encourages families, educators, and communities to recognize symptoms early, reduce stigma, and support children’s mental health with compassion and education.

International No Diet Day: Founded in 1992 by British feminist Mary Evans Young, this day challenges diet culture and promotes body positivity. The first observance took place with a small picnic in London’s Hyde Park. To avoid clashing with Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the U.S., the date was later moved to May 6 in some countries. Still, many places continue to observe it on May 3. The day encourages people to embrace body diversity and reject societal pressures related to appearance and weight.

National Beverage Day: This day invites people to enjoy their favorite drinks—hot or cold, fizzy or still, caffeinated or alcohol-free. While the origins of the day remain unclear, it serves as a reminder of the wide range of beverage-related national days throughout the year. For instance, January celebrates milk and green juice, while May includes days for orange juice, lemonade, and cocktails. National Beverage Day stands out as a general invitation to relax and enjoy whatever you like to drink.

National Crêpe Suzette Day: This dessert day honors the famous French dish said to be invented by Chef Henri Charpentier in the 19th century. According to Charpentier, he accidentally created the sauce while preparing crêpes for Prince Edward of Wales and quickly adapted it into what became known as Crêpes Suzette. The dish is flambéed with orange liqueur, creating a rich caramelized sauce. It remains a classic in French cuisine, often prepared table-side in restaurants for dramatic effect.

National Foster Care Day * (First Tuesday in May): This day marks the start of National Foster Care Month and highlights the challenges faced by youth in the foster care system. Established by the Ticket to Dream Foundation and Project Blue, the day encourages the public to wear blue in support of foster youth. It aims to raise awareness about shortages in foster care resources, encourage community involvement, and promote improvements to better meet the needs of children and families.

National Nurses Day: Celebrated annually on May 6, this day kicks off National Nurses Week and honors the critical role of nurses in healthcare. The observance was officially recognized in 1982 when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation. The week ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. With origins dating back to a 1953 proposal to President Eisenhower, National Nurses Day has become a cornerstone of recognition for nurses’ dedication, care, and advocacy.

National Teacher Appreciation Day / National Teacher Day * (Tuesday during the first full week in May): This day is a chance to thank teachers for the knowledge, care, and support they provide every day. Originally proposed in 1944 and formally proclaimed as National Teachers’ Day in 1953 after Eleanor Roosevelt’s efforts, it was first observed on March 7, 1980. The National Education Association later moved the celebration to May, and in 1985 it became the Tuesday of the first full week. The day is part of Teacher Appreciation Week and recognizes the long-lasting influence educators have on their students and communities.

National Tourist Appreciation Day: First celebrated over a decade ago, this observance recognizes the positive economic and cultural impact of tourists on local communities. While tourism can bring challenges, it also supports small businesses, creates jobs, and encourages cultural exchange. National Tourist Appreciation Day is observed on May 6 and complements National Tourism Day on May 7. It’s a good reminder to thank those who travel and support local economies along the way.

No Homework Day: Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays, this lighthearted day gives students a break from assignments and encourages balance between schoolwork and free time. While not meant to eliminate homework entirely, it promotes mental wellness and creativity by allowing students to focus on other interests. Studies have shown that excessive homework can increase stress and reduce engagement, making this day a welcome pause for families and educators alike.

Poem on Your Pillow Day * (First Tuesday in May): Established in 2015 by Tweetspeak Poetry, this unique day encourages people to share short poems by leaving them on a loved one’s pillow. The idea began as a way to make poetry more accessible and enjoyable—especially for children. Parents, partners, or friends can use the day to add a touch of sweetness, reflection, or humor at bedtime through the quiet surprise of a poem. It’s part of a broader effort to bring poetry into everyday life.

World Asthma Day * (First Tuesday in May): Founded in 1998 during the first World Asthma Meeting in Barcelona, this global health day raises awareness about asthma and aims to improve care for those living with it. Organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), the day now includes participation from over 35 countries. Asthma affects around 300 million people worldwide and can seriously impact quality of life. The observance promotes education on symptoms, triggers, and treatment to help manage the chronic condition more effectively.