NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

National Ellis Island Family History Day

On National Ellis Island Family History Day, we lean into the business of growing up: the milestones, the mess, the big feelings.

APR17

Saturday, April 17Every year on April 17

days to go

Roots: April 17, 1907 was Ellis Island's busiest day, with 11,747 names recorded.
Vibe: A day of reflection, connection, and celebration of heritage
Also on Apr 17: World Hemophilia Day · Bat Appreciation Day · International Bat Appreciation Day
Hashtag: #NationalEllisIslandFamilyHistoryDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Ellis Island Family History Day.

Put the phone away for an hour and follow their lead.
Let them pick dinner, the music, or the route.
Tell them one new story about someone in your family.
Do one boring parenting task as a small event — folding, bath, bedtime.
Send a photo of them to someone who'd love it.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Make one hour entirely kid-led. Do whatever they pick.
Kids
Let them plan the activity and see it through.
Couples
Trade one parenting chore you usually hate for a joint activity with the kids.
Office
Allow a little flex for parents on the calendar — school pickup matters.
School
Build a classroom tradition around the day — a story, a song, a simple ritual.
Community
Volunteer at a school, afterschool program, or youth center.
Just me
Reach out to a niece, nephew, godchild, or former student. Be seen.

Plan ahead

National Ellis Island Family History Day is observed on April 17 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, Apr 17this year

2027Sat, Apr 17

2028Mon, Apr 17

2029Tue, Apr 17

2030Wed, Apr 17

2031Thu, Apr 17

2032Sat, Apr 17

2033Sun, Apr 17

2034Mon, Apr 17

2035Tue, Apr 17

2036Thu, Apr 17

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Fast facts

Over 12 millionImmigrants passed through Ellis Island

More than 40%Of current U.S. citizens can trace ancestry to immigrants from Ellis Island

The story

Ellis Island, located in New York Harbor, served as the primary entry point for millions of immigrants seeking a better life in the United States from 1892 to 1954. It represents hope, resilience, and the diverse origins of American culture. On National Ellis Island Family History Day, families are encouraged to explore their own histories, reflecting on the journeys that brought their ancestors to these shores.

Read the full story

The island itself is now a part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. This museum houses millions of records, photos, and artifacts that tell the stories of those who passed through its gates. The significance of these stories cannot be overstated, as they contribute to the rich narrative of what it means to be American.

As we commemorate this day, many families take the opportunity to delve into their ancestry. This can involve using online databases, visiting local historical societies, or even traveling to their ancestral homelands. By sharing these stories, families create a tangible connection to their past, helping younger generations appreciate their heritage and understand the sacrifices made by their forebears.

Celebrating National Ellis Island Family History Day fosters a sense of community and belonging. It reminds us that every family has a unique story shaped by the challenges and triumphs of their ancestors. In doing so, we honor not only our own histories but also the collective experience of millions who sought refuge and opportunity in the United States.

Did you know?

The First Immigrant

Annie Moore, a 15-year-old from Ireland, was the first immigrant processed at Ellis Island.

Immigration Peak

The peak year for immigration at Ellis Island was 1907, with over 1.2 million arrivals.

Processing Time

Most immigrants were processed in just a few hours, but some faced lengthy inspections.

Health Inspections

Approximately 20% of immigrants were detained for health or legal reasons.

Cultural Influence

Ellis Island immigrants significantly shaped American cuisine, music, and art.

Closure

Ellis Island closed its doors in 1954 due to changes in immigration policies.

Restoration

The island was restored and reopened as a museum in 1990, celebrating its historical significance.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHome to Ellis Island, where millions began their American journey.
ITItalyMany immigrants hailed from Italy, seeking opportunities in America.
DEGermanyGermany was one of the top countries of origin for immigrants.
GBUnited KingdomMany British citizens sought a new life in the U.S. through Ellis Island.
HUHungaryHungarian immigrants contributed greatly to American culture and economy.
MXMexicoMexican immigrants have played a vital role in shaping the American landscape.