NATIONAL DAYCOMMUNITY

National Sweetest Day

Join us in celebrating National Sweetest Day, a day to show appreciation and love.

OCT17

Saturday, October 17Third Saturday in October

days to go

Roots: 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio
Vibe: Generosity and kindness
Also on Oct 17: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty · World Anesthesia Day · World Trauma Day
Hashtag: #NationalSweetestDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Leave sweet notes

Tuck little love notes around the house for your family to find. Small words, big smiles.

WITH FRIENDS

Deliver surprise treats

Show up at a friend's door with candy or flowers. No reason needed beyond kindness.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Shout out a coworker

Write a thank-you note to someone who helped you lately. Post it where all can see.

Plan ahead

National Sweetest Day is observed on the third Saturday in October. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Oct 17this year

2027Sat, Oct 16

2028Sat, Oct 21

2029Sat, Oct 20

2030Sat, Oct 19

2031Sat, Oct 18

2032Sat, Oct 16

2033Sat, Oct 15

2034Sat, Oct 21

2035Sat, Oct 20

2036Sat, Oct 18

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Fast facts

Over 20,000Candy boxes given in 1922

The story

National Sweetest Day has its roots in Cleveland, Ohio, dating back to 1922 when Herbert Birch Kingston, a Cleveland candy maker, sought to create a day dedicated to kindness. He envisioned a day where people could express gratitude and love through small acts of generosity. Since then, this unique observance has grown in popularity, transforming into a nationwide celebration that emphasizes the importance of compassion and thoughtfulness in our daily lives.

Read the full story

Celebrated on the third Saturday of October, National Sweetest Day encourages individuals to reach out to friends, family, and even strangers with gestures of kindness. From simple acts like sending a card or baking cookies to more elaborate surprises like organizing group outings, the essence of the day is about connecting with others and spreading joy, much needed in today's fast-paced world.

Interestingly, Sweetest Day is not as widely recognized in all regions of the United States. While many states enthusiastically partake in the festivities, others view it as an opportunity to share love without the commercial pressures often associated with holidays like Valentine's Day. This contrast highlights the diverse cultural landscape of America, where traditions can vary significantly from one community to another.

As we approach this year's celebration on the third Saturday of October, consider how you can participate and make a difference in someone's life. Whether it's through a small gesture or a grand display of affection, the goal remains the same: to remind others that they are valued and loved. Let this Sweetest Day be a chance to reflect on the beauty of kindness, creating ripples of positivity that can last far beyond this special day.