NATIONAL DAYENVIRONMENT

National Love a Tree Day

National Love a Tree Day is an invitation to step outside — dirt under your nails, green in your eye, weather in your hair.

MAY16

Sunday, May 16Every year on May 16

days to go

Roots: Origins unknown
Vibe: A day for appreciation and environmental action
Also on May 16: International Day of Living Together in Peace · Barbecue Day · Biographer’s Day
Hashtag: #NationalLoveATreeDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Love a Tree Day.

Take a walk without your phone — just the walk.
Plant something. Anything.
Pick up ten pieces of litter from a place you love.
Learn the name of one tree, bird, or wildflower in your neighborhood.
Leave a place a little better than you found it.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Go on a no-phone walk together. Point out what you see.
Kids
Do a scavenger hunt — five kinds of leaves, three birdsongs, one funny rock.
Couples
Plan a day outside — picnic, trail, park. Pack well. Rush nothing.
Office
Move a meeting outside. Walk-and-talks are underrated.
School
Take a class lesson outside if weather permits.
Community
Volunteer for a park cleanup, trail maintenance, or community garden workday.
Just me
Pick one spot, go there, and stay longer than you planned.

Plan ahead

National Love a Tree Day is observed on May 16 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, May 16this year

2027Sun, May 16

2028Tue, May 16

2029Wed, May 16

2030Thu, May 16

2031Fri, May 16

2032Sun, May 16

2033Mon, May 16

2034Tue, May 16

2035Wed, May 16

2036Fri, May 16

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Fast facts

Over 1 billionTrees are planted each year globally

Trees can absorb up to 48 pounds of CO2 annually

The story

National Love a Tree Day is observed annually on May 16, encouraging individuals to recognize the importance of trees in our environment. This day serves as a reminder of the many benefits trees provide, from clean air to habitat for wildlife. Many communities organize tree-planting events to engage citizens in hands-on conservation efforts.

Read the full story

The observance of National Love a Tree Day aligns with the Arbor Day Foundation's mission to promote tree planting and care. It is an opportunity for people to come together and learn about the different species of trees in their local areas. Many regions across the United States celebrate this day with tree-related activities, highlighting the beauty and diversity of trees.

Trees are more than just a source of beauty, they play a crucial role in our ecosystems. They provide shade, reduce urban heat, and improve air quality. A healthy tree canopy can also enhance property values and promote mental well-being. On this day, individuals are encouraged to engage in activities that foster a deeper connection with nature.

National Love a Tree Day not only promotes appreciation for trees but also highlights the need for sustainable practices. Communities are urged to take action by planting trees, organizing clean-ups, and educating others about the significance of maintaining green spaces. As we celebrate this day, let us remember that trees are vital to our planet's health, and collective efforts can lead to positive change.

Did you know?

Oldest Tree

Methuselah, a bristlecone pine in California, is over 4,800 years old.

Tree Communication

Trees can communicate through underground fungal networks, sharing nutrients and information.

Largest Tree

The General Sherman tree in California is the largest known living single stem tree on Earth.

Tree Benefits

One tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year.

National Arbor Day

Arbor Day is celebrated on the last Friday in April in the United States.

Tree Canopy

Urban areas with a healthy tree canopy can reduce energy costs for cooling.

Tree Species

There are over 60,000 species of trees worldwide.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesTrees play a vital role in American landscapes, from the redwoods of California to the oaks in the Midwest.
CACanadaHome to vast forests and diverse tree species, Canada celebrates its natural heritage on this day.
AUAustraliaNational Love a Tree Day is recognized in various forms, highlighting the importance of trees in urban and rural areas.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK promotes tree planting as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability.
EUEuropean UnionMany countries across Europe celebrate tree-related events, emphasizing conservation efforts.
·GlobalTrees are essential to our planet, and Love a Tree Day is celebrated in various forms worldwide.