Arbor Day
Plant trees and celebrate nature on Arbor Day! This environmental holiday encourages tree planting and forest conservation. Trees provide oxygen, clean air and water, prevent erosion, and create habitats for wildlife. Join community tree-planting events and learn about the vital role trees play in maintaining a healthy environment.
About Arbor Day
Plant trees and celebrate nature on Arbor Day! This environmental holiday encourages tree planting and forest conservation. Trees provide oxygen, clean air and water, prevent erosion, and create habitats for wildlife. Join community tree-planting events and learn about the vital role trees play in maintaining a healthy environment.
History & origins
Arbor Day began in Nebraska in 1872, when Nebraska newspaper editor J. Sterling Morton proposed a tree-planting holiday to the State Board of Agriculture. The first celebration was held on April 10, 1872, and Nebraska sources say more than 1 million trees were planted that day. In Nebraska, the observance later became a legal state holiday, and National Arbor Day is now observed on the last Friday in April, though many places choose dates that fit local planting conditions.
Why it matters
Arbor Day turns tree planting into a public action with lasting environmental benefits, from cleaner air and cooler neighborhoods to erosion control and wildlife habitat. It also encourages communities, schools, and families to take part in conservation in a practical way that can improve local landscapes and urban forests.
How to celebrate
Plant a tree in your yard or participate in community tree-planting events. Learn about different tree species and their benefits. Support forest conservation organizations. Teach children about the importance of trees and forests. Share tree facts and environmental tips on social media.
Facts
- Arbor Day was first celebrated in Nebraska in 1872
- Over 1 million trees were planted on the first Arbor Day
- A single tree can absorb 48 pounds of CO2 per year
- Trees can increase property values by up to 15%
- The world loses about 18.7 million acres of forest annually
Upcoming dates
- Friday, April 24, 2026
- Saturday, April 24, 2027
- Monday, April 24, 2028
- Tuesday, April 24, 2029
- Wednesday, April 24, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Arbor Day in 2026?
Arbor Day in 2026 is Friday, April 24, 2026, in the United States. Some states and communities may observe it on different dates that better match local tree-planting conditions.
What is Arbor Day?
Arbor Day is a day dedicated to planting trees and promoting tree care and conservation. It is often called the tree planter’s holiday.
Who started Arbor Day?
Arbor Day was started by J. Sterling Morton in Nebraska in 1872. He proposed the idea to the State Board of Agriculture, which adopted the first observance.
How do you celebrate Arbor Day?
Plant a tree, join a community planting event, or support a local forestry or conservation group. You can also teach children about trees and share tree-care tips at home or online.
Is Arbor Day an official holiday?
In Nebraska, Arbor Day is an official state holiday, and National Arbor Day is observed in the United States on the last Friday in April. Outside Nebraska, many observances are informal or state-specific rather than universal public holidays.
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