NATIONAL MONTH

Straw Hat Month

On Straw Hat Month, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.

WHEN
April
Roots
Sponsored by the Headwear Information Bureau
Vibe
Casual, carefree, and sunny
Hashtag
#StrawHatMonth
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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate Straw Hat Month.

  • Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
  • Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
  • Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
  • Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
  • Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Fast facts

Straw hats offer shade and sun protection
A reminder to swap felt hats for airier straw

The story

Straw Hat Month was sponsored by the Headwear Information Bureau to remind everyone to swap cloth and felt hats for airier straw hats. Originally worn by farmers, these lightweight hats transitioned into fashionable summer attire for people of all classes. By the early 1900s, straw hats were widely popular and became an essential item for any outdoor social gathering.

Read the full story

Straw hats have long been a staple of American summer picnics and garden parties. The hats were not just practical, offering shade from the sun, but also a canvas for creativity, with many people personalizing their hats with ribbons, flowers, and other decorations. This led to local events and contests celebrating the best straw hats.

Today, Straw Hat Month serves as a reminder to embrace the joy of summer. The observance encourages individuals and families to step outside, enjoy the warm weather, and wear their favorite hats as they engage in outdoor activities. From beach trips to barbecues, the straw hat remains a versatile accessory that symbolizes relaxation and fun.

Straw hats are worn around the world, from Japan to Brazil. As people around the world recognize the charm of straw hats, Straw Hat Month continues to connect communities, fostering a spirit of togetherness and appreciation for this timeless accessory.

Worth knowing

01

Hat Styles

Explore different straw hat styles and their unique features.

02

Summer Activities

Discover fun outdoor activities to enjoy while wearing your hat.

03

Photo Contest

Share photos of your favorite straw hat online.

04

DIY Decorating

Get creative with ideas to personalize your straw hat.

Did you know?

01

Oldest Straw Hat

Straw hats have been worn for thousands of years.

02

Hat Etiquette

Straw hats have traditionally been worn in spring and summer.

03

Fashion Icon

The straw boater hat was popularized by the boating culture in the 19th century.

04

Economic Impact

Straw hat production supports many local economies worldwide.

05

Material Matters

Straw hats can be made from various materials, including wheat, rice, and palm leaves.

06

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, straw hats symbolize hard work and outdoor lifestyle.

07

Celebrity Favorites

Many famous figures have been photographed in straw hats.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome of Straw Hat Month, where summer fun is celebrated.
  • JPJapanAdopts straw hats in summer festivals and outdoor events.
  • BRBrazilStraw hats are popular during Carnival and beach outings.
  • AUAustraliaEnjoys straw hats during summer barbecues and beach days.
  • FRFranceStylish straw hats are seen in French summer fashion.
  • ITItalyStraw hats are a must-have for Italian summer vacations.

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