National Grandparents Day is celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day, honoring grandparents and the special role they play in family life.
History of National Grandparents Day
National Grandparents Day was signed into law in the United States in 1978, thanks in large part to the efforts of Marian McQuade, a West Virginia housewife who campaigned for years to establish a day honoring grandparents and raising awareness about elderly Americans living in nursing homes. McQuade believed grandparents deserved a day of national recognition for the wisdom, love, and support they provide across generations.
Unlike many “national days” created for marketing purposes, Grandparents Day has genuine legislative history behind it, with President Jimmy Carter officially proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day.
How to Celebrate National Grandparents Day
- Visit or call your grandparents to spend quality time together
- Write a heartfelt card or letter expressing appreciation
- Share family photos or stories across generations
- Help a grandparent with a task, errand, or technology question
- Visit a nursing home or senior center to spend time with residents who may not have family nearby
- Start or continue a family tradition, like a favorite recipe or game
Fun Facts About Grandparents Day
- National Grandparents Day has an official flower: the forget-me-not, symbolizing remembrance and honor.
- Marian McQuade, the founder of the holiday, had 15 children and 43 grandchildren of her own.
- The holiday was officially proclaimed in 1978 by President Jimmy Carter after years of advocacy.
- Grandparents Day falls on a different date each year since it’s tied to the first Sunday after Labor Day, rather than a fixed calendar date.
- Studies have shown that strong grandparent-grandchild relationships can have positive effects on child development and emotional wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Grandparents Day?
National Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day each year. In 2026, that falls on September 13th.
Who started National Grandparents Day?
West Virginia native Marian McQuade is credited as the driving force behind the holiday, which was officially proclaimed in 1978.
Is there an official flower for Grandparents Day?
Yes, the forget-me-not is recognized as the official flower of National Grandparents Day.
Is National Grandparents Day the same date every year?
No, since it’s tied to the first Sunday after Labor Day, the exact date shifts slightly from year to year.