February’s hidden holidays and unique ways to celebrate 

Happy Valentine’s Day! Or should I say, Women in Sports Day? Or Random Acts of Kindness Day? February is filled with lesser-known, somewhat quirky holidays you probably had no clue existed. They are often overlooked because they don’t seem important, but when you consider the intention behind them—that someone thought these moments were special enough to celebrate—you might just find they deserve some attention too. So let’s dig into a few of February’s hidden holiday gems and discover fun ways to celebrate!

1. National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 5th)
The website daysoftheyear.com explains that “The first National Women in Sports Day was established in 1987 when United States President Ronald Reagan declared the day to be set aside to acknowledge the important part that women play in sports.” Since then, it has recognized all female athletes professionally and non-professionally. Some colleges, universities, and organizations celebrate this with an event such as the Women’s Sports Foundation which held one that included a panel, networking event, and game! Though this day has passed, you can still find ways to celebrate. As the website explains, “Sports have a huge positive impact on the lives of women! And National Girls and Women in Sports Day is here to raise awareness for and celebrate this fact while recognizing the women’s struggle for equality, in athletics as well as so many other arenas.” So honor the trailblazing women of sports by playing a game, hitting the gym, or trying something active.

2. National Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day (February 11th)
Next, National “Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk” Day! This fun day reminds us not to dwell on the past or worry about things we cannot change. Life throws all sorts of challenges our way, and this saying encourages us to let go of the little setbacks in life and enjoy our journey. How can you join in on the fun? Share your funniest or most embarrassing moments with friends and family! A good laugh about our mistakes reminds us that everyone makes them and that things usually work out in the end. And why not take the phrase literally? Treat yourself to delicious milkshakes—there’s no risk of spills when sipping on a tasty treat! Cheers to making the best of every little mistake!

3. Singles Awareness Day (February 15th)
For those who find Valentine’s Day a bit too couple-focused, Singles Awareness Day offers a refreshing alternative. This day was started by a high school student as a way to empower all the single people out there and offer the refreshing reminder that being single is not just okay—it’s worth celebrating. This day is an opportunity to focus on self-love, a sentiment beautifully expressed by Snoop Dogg: “Learn to love yourself first. You don’t need confirmation from a man, or a woman, your parents, nobody. You should love yourself first, love who you are and who you are becoming. Then, it will make it easier for other people to follow that.” Celebrate this day by treating yourself to something you enjoy, practicing self-care, and indulging in some candy—bonus points for snagging it at a post-Valentine’s Day discount! Most importantly, remember that love exists in many forms. Whether it comes from friends, family, or even yourself, love is all around, and that’s always worth celebrating.

4. National Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17th)
Pretty self-explanatory, this national day is dedicated to celebrating kindness. It serves as a reminder that an act of kindness can make a significant difference. Whether it’s a friend, classmate, or community member, simple gestures like giving a compliment, holding the door for someone, or helping out a neighbor, can brighten someone’s day.

While Valentine’s Day gets most of the February spotlight, these lesser-known holidays remind us that there’s so much more to celebrate. So though February may be a short month, it is packed with opportunities to make life a little brighter!