National Poinsettia Day, celebrated annually on December 12, honors both the beauty of the poinsettia plant and its cultural significance. The holiday commemorates the death of Joel Roberts Poinsett, the U.S. diplomat credited with introducing the plant to the United States from Mexico in the 1820s. Known for its vibrant red and green leaves, the poinsettia is closely associated with the Christmas season in the U.S. and other countries.
In Mexico, where the plant originates, it is called “La Flor de Nochebuena,” meaning “Christmas Eve Flower.” The plant has a rich history in Mexican culture, symbolizing purity and being used in celebrations long before it gained popularity elsewhere. In the U.S., the poinsettia has become a staple in holiday decorations.
When Is National Poinsettia Day Celebrated?
National Poinsettia Day, celebrated every year on December 12, is a perfect opportunity to refresh your holiday décor. Consider picking up a poinsettia to brighten up your home, workplace, or as a thoughtful gift for someone. You might also take a moment to learn how to care for poinsettias properly, so they last beyond the holiday season. If you enjoy holiday traditions, this day is a great excuse to explore the cultural significance of the poinsettia, making your celebrations more meaningful and connected to its origins.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2024 | December 12, Thursday |
| 2025 | December 12, Friday |
| 2026 | December 12, Saturday |
| 2027 | December 12, Sunday |
| 2028 | December 12, Tuesday |
| 2029 | December 12, Wednesday |
| 2030 | December 12, Thursday |
Fun Facts About Poinsettias
Poinsettias have more to them than meets the eye, making them a beautiful addition to holiday traditions. While many people assume the bright red parts are the flowers, these are actually bracts, or modified leaves. The real flowers are the tiny yellow buds nestled in the center. Poinsettias also come in a surprising range of colors—beyond the classic red, you can find them in white, pink, or even striking variegated patterns, offering plenty of options for your décor.
These plants are also the best-selling potted plant in the U.S. and Canada during the holiday season, with millions sold each year. But caring for a poinsettia requires attention. They thrive with the right amount of water and indirect sunlight, so keeping them healthy through the holidays can be a rewarding challenge. To make the most of your poinsettia, place it in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight, and water it only when the soil feels dry to the touch. With proper care, your poinsettia might last well beyond the season, adding color to your home long after the holidays are over.
Ways to Celebrate National Poinsettia Day
There are plenty of creative ways to make National Poinsettia Day more festive and memorable. Start by decorating your home with a variety of poinsettias, mixing colors like red, white, and pink to complement your holiday theme. Get creative with arrangements—whether it’s a simple centerpiece, a front porch display, or even smaller pots throughout your home. Use this opportunity to brush up on plant care tips, ensuring your poinsettia stays vibrant and healthy well beyond the holidays.
Sharing poinsettias is another meaningful way to celebrate. You can brighten someone’s day by gifting a poinsettia to a friend, family member, or neighbor. Or, consider donating poinsettias to hospitals, nursing homes, or community centers to bring a touch of holiday warmth to those who might need it most. As a fun final touch, take photos of your decorations and share them on social media with the hashtag #NationalPoinsettiaDay to spread the cheer and inspire others to get involved.
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 Calendars 2024-2025 (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.
