INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Drop a Rock Day

Today we celebrate kindness rocks, painted stones hidden for others to find.

JUL3

Saturday, July 3Every year on July 3

days to go

Roots: The observance grew from the kindness-rocks movement of painted stones left in public places.
Vibe: A peaceful, reflective atmosphere encourages connection.
Also on Jul 3: Chocolate Wafer Day · Compliment Your Mirror Day · Eat Your Beans Day
Hashtag: #InternationalDropARockDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Paint kindness rocks

Decorate smooth stones with bright messages, and hide them around the neighborhood for strangers to find.

WITH FRIENDS

Rock hunt outing

Paint a batch together, then scatter them on a favorite trail and track the smiles.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Rock the office

Leave painted rocks with kind notes on coworkers' desks. Anonymous kindness is the best kind.

Fast facts

Studies show nature can reduce stress by 30%.

Over 70%Of Americans engage in outdoor activities.

The story

International Drop a Rock Day, celebrated on July 3, invites people to paint rocks with bright designs and uplifting messages and leave them in public places for others to find. This kindness-rock tradition spreads small moments of joy to strangers who stumble upon the hidden stones.

Read the full story

Painting and hiding rocks has no single founder; the practice grew as communities embraced kindness rocks as a creative way to brighten someone's day. Each painted stone left on a park bench or trail carries a small message of encouragement.

On this day, participants are encouraged to paint rocks with cheerful designs and leave them where others will find them. This unique observance transcends borders, promoting a universal appreciation for creativity and kindness.

As International Drop a Rock Day continues to gain recognition, communities worldwide embrace this practice. From urban parks to serene lakeshores, hiding painted rocks fosters connection, not only through creativity but also with one another, as finders share photos of the stones they discover.