National Grandparents Day

History & origins

National Grandparents Day is a U.S. observance held on the first Sunday after Labor Day, and in 2026 it falls on September 13. The idea was strongly promoted in the early 1970s by Marian McQuade of West Virginia, who advocated for a day to honor grandparents and encourage intergenerational connections. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation establishing National Grandparents Day as an annual observance in the United States.

Why it matters

National Grandparents Day recognizes the emotional and practical role grandparents play in family life, from preserving family stories to offering childcare and support. It also draws attention to older adults as a valuable part of the community, not just a separate age group. For many families, the day is a reminder to maintain relationships that can strengthen identity, belonging, and mental well-being across generations.

How to celebrate

Visit or call grandparents. Share meals or activities together. Ask them about family history. Help with tasks or errands. Create intergenerational memories. Express love and gratitude.

Facts

• Established as a national holiday in 1978
• Over 70 million grandparents in the US
• Many grandparents help raise grandchildren
• The official flower is the forget-me-not
• Grandparents pass down family stories and traditions

Upcoming dates

• Sunday, September 13, 2026
• Monday, September 13, 2027
• Wednesday, September 13, 2028
• Thursday, September 13, 2029
• Friday, September 13, 2030