National Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17)
National Random Acts of Kindness Day, celebrated on February 17, is all about doing small things that make someone else’s day better.
It doesn’t have to be big or expensive. Buying a coffee for the person behind you, sending an encouraging text, or helping a neighbor carry groceries can genuinely change someone’s mood.
This day is a simple reminder that kindness spreads quickly. One small action often leads to another, creating a ripple effect you may never even see. It’s also one of those feel-good weird holidays in February that’s easy to join in on.
When is the Holiday?
The day is observed on February 17th each year. People around the world use the day as a prompt to slow down and intentionally look for ways to help others, even in small everyday moments.
Who Invented It?
The holiday was popularized by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting kindness through education, community programs, and challenges.
Their goal is to make kindness a daily habit rather than a one-off event.
History of the Holiday
The idea of random acts of kindness became popular in the late 1980s and 1990s, often linked to bumper stickers and community movements encouraging people to “practice random kindness.”
Over time, the concept grew into an official awareness day in the United States and later spread internationally.
Today, schools, workplaces, and community groups often organize kindness campaigns, challenges, and volunteer projects around February 17.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- The phrase “practice random kindness” became popular in the 1990s after appearing on bumper stickers.
- Many people anonymously leave coins, notes, or small gifts in public places on this day.
- Some workplaces let employees “nominate” coworkers for surprise thank-you treats.
- Acts of kindness are contagious – people who receive one are far more likely to pass it on.
- February 17 sees a spike in charitable donations and volunteer sign-ups each year.
Coloring Page
This free kindness coloring page is a simple way to help kids think about helping others while enjoying a relaxing creative activity.
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Activities to Celebrate
Blessing bags – Put together small care packages with snacks, socks, and toiletries for people experiencing homelessness. Keep them in your car so you can give them out when needed.
Kindness spinner challenge – Use a spinner with different kind actions written on it, like “write a thank-you note” or “help with chores,” and complete whatever it lands on.
Kindness coloring pages – Print coloring sheets focused on kindness messages and use them as a calm activity for kids while talking about helping others.
Try a daily kindness list – Challenge yourself to complete one small act each hour, like complimenting someone or holding a door open.
Movie night: Pay It Forward – Watch the movie together and talk about how one action can affect many people.
Links to Resources
Random Acts of Kindness Foundation – Find free lesson plans, challenges, and printable kindness calendars.
Printable Kindness Calendar – A month-long activity that gives kids one kind action to complete each day.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Random Acts of Kindness – Short real-life stories that show how small gestures can change lives.
Random Kindness and Senseless Acts of Beauty – A book focused on how everyday people create positive change.
Random Acts of Kindness Book for Adults – Practical ideas and stories to help make kindness a habit.
Related Holidays
- International Be Kind to Lawyers Day (Second Tuesday in April) – A lighthearted way to show appreciation and kindness.
- National Best Friends Day (June 8) – Celebrates meaningful friendships and connection.
- National Lost Penny Day (February 12) – Encourages noticing small moments of luck and simple joys, much like random acts of kindness.
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