Observed on the first Friday in March, National Dress in Blue Day inspires people to wear blue and spread awareness about colorectal cancer. As part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, this day focuses on educating others about prevention, early detection, and treatment options for this often-overlooked disease. By wearing blue, participants honor those affected and highlight the importance of regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices.
The Background of National Dress in Blue Day
National Dress in Blue Day began as a grassroots movement by Anita Mitchell, a stage IV colorectal cancer survivor. She created it to honor those lost to the disease, including her close friend and father.
In 2009, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance adopted the day to spread awareness and support research efforts. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
It is also one of the most preventable cancers when detected early through regular screenings. This day encourages people to learn risk factors, recognize symptoms, and promote life-saving screenings.
When Is National Dress in Blue Day Celebrated?
National Dress in Blue Day is observed annually on the first Friday of March, making it an easy-to-remember annual tradition. Here’s a look at upcoming dates for this awareness-focused day:
| Year | Date and Day |
|---|---|
| 2025 | March 7, Friday |
| 2026 | March 6, Friday |
| 2027 | March 5, Friday |
| 2028 | March 3, Friday |
| 2029 | March 2, Friday |
| 2030 | March 1, Friday |
Mark your calendar to wear blue and help raise awareness for a critical cause!
Ways to Celebrate National Dress in Blue Day
National Dress in Blue Day isn’t just about wearing blue—it’s about taking action and inspiring others to do the same. Here are some meaningful ways to participate:
- Wear Blue: Choose blue clothing or accessories to show your support. Encourage friends, family, or coworkers to join you and make it a group effort.
- Organize a Fundraiser: Host a blue-themed event like a bake sale, charity walk, or community gathering. Use the proceeds to support organizations like the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
- Share Your Story: If you or someone you know has been affected by colorectal cancer, share your story on social media. Use #DressInBlueDay to connect with others and raise awareness.
- Promote Screening Awareness: Spread the word about the importance of regular colorectal cancer screenings. Share resources or host a discussion to educate your community.
- Donate to Research and Support: Consider donating to a colorectal cancer organization or funding local awareness campaigns. Every contribution helps save lives.
Facts About Colorectal Cancer Awareness
Colorectal cancer’s impact and the importance of early detection show why National Dress in Blue Day matters. These facts highlight the need for awareness and prevention:
- Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. This highlights the importance of awareness and preventive measures.
- Regular screening can prevent up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and saves lives.
- A healthy lifestyle lowers the risk of colorectal cancer. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly are key preventive steps.
- People over 45 are encouraged to start regular screenings for colorectal cancer. Those with family history or symptoms may need earlier checks.
- In 2023, over 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer were expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. This statistic underscores the critical need for ongoing awareness and advocacy efforts.
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendar 2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
