National Grandparents Day in the United States

Date: Celebrated annually on the first Sunday after Labor Day.

History: - Origins: The idea for a national day to honor grandparents began with Marian McQuade, a housewife from West Virginia who wanted to champion the cause of lonely elderly individuals and encourage grandchildren to tap into the wisdom and heritage their grandparents could provide. - Legislation: In 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a federal proclamation, declaring the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. This followed several years of lobbying by McQuade and her supporters.

Traditions:

• Family Gatherings: Families often use this day as an opportunity to gather and spend time with grandparents, recognizing their importance within the family structure.
• Gift-Giving: Grandchildren may give gifts or create handmade cards to show appreciation for their grandparents.
• School Celebrations: Schools may host special events or activities where children can honor their grandparents, such as inviting them to school for a day or performing songs or skits.
• Community Events: Senior centers and organizations may hold events in honor of local elder citizens, even those who are not biological grandparents.

Activities:

• People engage in various activities on National Grandparents Day that can include:
  • Sharing meals
  • Storytelling or sharing family history
  • Participating in intergenerational games or crafts
  • Visiting grandparents in their homes, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes
  • Volunteering in community services aimed at supporting elderly individuals

The day serves as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of grandparents in our lives. It's both a personal family holiday and a societal reminder of the bonds between generations.