National Good Neighbor Day is celebrated every year on September 28th, encouraging people to reach out, connect, and build stronger relationships with the people who live closest to them.
History of National Good Neighbor Day
National Good Neighbor Day began as the idea of Becky Mattson, a resident of Lakeside, Montana, who started campaigning for the observance in the early 1970s. Mattson believed that fostering genuine neighborly relationships could help build stronger, safer, and more connected communities. Her efforts gained traction, and in 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed Proclamation 4601, officially designating a National Good Neighbor Day, initially observed on the fourth Sunday in September.
In 2003, the observance was permanently fixed to September 28th each year, simplifying planning for the community groups and local governments that had increasingly embraced the day. Today, National Good Neighbor Day is recognized by hundreds of mayors and local governments across the country and continues to promote a simple, low-pressure idea: knowing your neighbors matters.
How to Celebrate National Good Neighbor Day
- Introduce yourself to a neighbor you haven’t formally met
- Bake something and share it with the people next door
- Offer to help a neighbor with a task, like yard work or a small home project
- Host or attend a neighborhood gathering or block party
- Write a thank-you note to a neighbor who has helped you in the past
Fun Facts About National Good Neighbor Day
- National Good Neighbor Day was the idea of Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, who began campaigning for it in the early 1970s.
- President Jimmy Carter formally proclaimed the observance in 1978.
- The date moved from the fourth Sunday in September to a fixed September 28th in 2003.
- Research has consistently shown that people who know their neighbors report lower levels of loneliness and greater feelings of safety in their communities.
- According to one survey, more than half of Americans admit to only knowing some, not all, of their immediate neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Good Neighbor Day?
National Good Neighbor Day is celebrated annually on September 28th.
Who started National Good Neighbor Day?
Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, is credited with originating the idea in the early 1970s, which was later formally proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in 1978.
Why does knowing your neighbors matter?
Research has shown that people who know their neighbors tend to report lower levels of loneliness, higher trust in their communities, and a greater sense of safety.