National Arbor Day
(Also known as Arbor Day (1872 to 1969))
National Arbor Day is observed next on Friday, April 25th, 2025 (251 days from today).
![National](/wwholidays/1024/national-arbor-day_1292.png)
A day to celebrate trees and their role in the world, named National Arbor Day.
History of National Arbor Day
Its first time was celebrated in Nebraska in 1872 in order to response a state proclamation calling on settlers and homeowners to plant trees with providing shade, shelter, fruit, fuel and beauty for the largely treeless inhabitants. Do you believe that more than a million planted trees in Nebraska's communities and on its farms on the first time?
The idea for establishing National Arbor Day was derived from an editor of Nebraska City News named J. Sterling Morton who spread it widely to neighboring states and eventually the entire United States and many other countries.
Nowadays, Arbor Day became official on the last Friday of April to be determined by the best tree-planting time in the United States. The earliest celebrations are in January and February in some Southern states, and the latest are May in many Northern locations.
The idea for Arbor Day originally derived from Nebraska. A visit to Nebraska will not show that this state was a treeless plain at first. However, the lack of trees there led to the establishment of Arbor Day in the 1800s.
Among the pioneers who moved to the Nebraska Territory in 1854 was J. Sterling Morton from Detroit. Both he and his wife were interested in nature a lot; therefore, they quickly filled their home in Nebraska with trees, shrubs, and flowers. Then Morton was a journalist and the editor of Nebraska's first newspaper later. With that forum, he spread his agricultural credentials and enthusiasm for plants to an equally enthusiastic audience. His fellow pioneers missed their tree. Besides, trees are considered as windbreaks to prevent soil erosion, serve as fuel and building materials, and provide shade from the hot sun.
In his articles and editorials, Morton not only advocates tree planting by individuals but also encourages civic organizations and groups to participate. With his reputation, he had been appointed to the secretary of the Nebraska Territory in order to emphasize the value of trees.
Some interesting truths about National Arbor Day
The first United States Arbor Day was celebrated in Nebraska on April 10, 1872, after it was suggested by the secretary of the Nebraska Territory, J. Sterling Morton.
1. The first celebration of National Arbor Day was celebrated in Nebraska on April 10th, 1872, after it was suggested by the secretary of the Nebraska Territory, J. Sterling Morton.
2. In 1920, more than 45 states of the United States commemorated National Arbor Day.
3. The Arbor Day Foundation was established in 1972 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the holiday. The nonprofit conservation group distributes more than 10 million trees each year.
4. National Arbor Day is also known as Sylvan Day, derived from the Latin word "Silva" which means "of the forest" or "of the forest." J. Sterling Morton denied this name because he would like all trees, not only woodland.
5. Having more than 1 million trees planted on the Arbor Day at first time.
6. In the US, Arbor Day is usually celebrated on the last Friday of April, although many states hold celebrations on different dates to schedule the best time to plant. For example, some states in the Deep South celebrate in February, while some states in the extreme north celebrate in May.
7. The first recorded Arbor Day was celebrated in the village of Mondoñedo, Spain in 1594! They grow horse chestnut trees a lot.
8. Until now, 44 countries celebrate Arbor Day each year in the world.
9. Arbor Day Proclamation for American Students was launched by President Theodore Roosevelt in order to emphasize the importance of trees and forestry on April 15th, 1907.
10. The most significant way to have Arbor Day celebration is to plant a tree. Trees bring a lot of benefits to people, wildlife and the environment.
Some reasons for National Arbor Day being loved
- Natural beauty
With so much of our population living in big cities, it's easy to lose sight of the amazing and magnificent views of nature.
- Our planet needs love
In spite of some arguments relating to global warming, it is confirmed to keep our planet healthy keeps us healthy. There's so much to love about a vacation that helps make our planet a better place.
- A global movement
There are more than 40 countries having their own style of Arbor Day. It means this holiday is global. We have a lot thing to say about trees, therefore, it's only natural that many cultures have their own day to celebrate.
How to celebrate National Arbor Day
- Plant a tree
What better way to celebrate Arbor Day than by planting a tree of your own? It is an amazing experience to look the growing of a tree for so many years, and it is an incredible feeling to know that you have made it happen.
- Don't print this!
Deforestation is a big problem because it affects our environment so much and cutting the usage of paper is the most immediate way to make a difference. You can take it a step further by looking for brands with sustainable business practices and by adopting strong composting and recycling habits.
- Long walk
Kind best! Hiking is a great way to escape the gloom of everyday life, and it's a great activity for people of all ages.
Observed
National Arbor Day has been observed the last Friday in April.Dates
Friday, April 28th, 2023
Friday, April 26th, 2024
Friday, April 25th, 2025
Friday, April 24th, 2026
Friday, April 30th, 2027
Founded by
Julius Sterling Morton on April 10th, 1872