Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day (February 11)

Cute little girl with glass of milk sitting on carpet near wet spot

Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day on February 11 is a reminder to let go of small mistakes and keep moving forward.

We’ve all had moments we wish we could undo, but this quirky holiday encourages a healthier mindset, clean it up, laugh it off, and carry on.

Whether you’re reflecting on past slip-ups or just looking for a fun theme for the day, it’s a simple way to reset your perspective.

When is the Holiday?

The day is observed annually on February 11th.

Who Invented It?

The exact origins aren’t clear, but the holiday is inspired by the well-known proverb that’s been used for centuries to encourage resilience. The message is simple: what’s done is done, focus on what comes next.

The History of the Holiday

The phrase “don’t cry over spilled milk” dates back to the 1600s. Welsh writer James Howell included a version of it in his 1659 book of proverbs.

Later, author Jonathan Swift referenced the saying, reinforcing the idea that worrying about past mistakes doesn’t change the outcome.

Today, the holiday uses that same wisdom to promote positivity, emotional resilience, and self-compassion.

glass of milk knocked over on the table

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

  1. The proverb dates back over 300 years.
  2. It’s a reminder of resilience and emotional well-being.
  3. The phrase is widely used in self-help and motivational content.
  4. It’s celebrated mainly in the U.S. but recognized globally.
  5. The holiday often features milk-themed crafts and recipes.

Coloring Page

Grab the free Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day coloring page below for a fun way to talk about emotions and moving on.

Dont Cry Over Spilled Milk Day Coloring Page
Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Coloring Sheet

Activities to Celebrate

  • Write down things you want to let go of and symbolically toss them away.
  • Share positive affirmations on social media.
  • Enjoy milk-themed arts and crafts with kids.
  • Host a “move on” party with friends.
  • Try mindfulness exercises to improve emotional resilience.

Links to Resources

  • Free Spilt Milk Play Dough Mats. These mats provide a fun, hands-on activity that encourages kids to develop fine motor skills while enjoying a creative milk-themed project.
  • Fun Milk Science Experiments. Discover exciting science experiments using milk to teach kids about chemical reactions and surface tension in a playful way.
  • Freezing Milk Tips. Learn the best methods to freeze milk properly and avoid waste, ensuring it stays fresh for future use.

Related Holidays

Pin it!

Share this post about crying about milk on Pinterest!

National Dont Cry Over Spilled Milk Day - February 11