Category: November 24

  • YOU’RE WELCOMEGIVING DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    You're Welcomegiving Day - Day After Thanksgiving

    YOU’RE WELCOMEGIVING DAY

    You’re Welcomegiving Day is observed annually on the day after Thanksgiving. Conventionally when someone thanks us for a kindness or service, we respond by saying, “You’re Welcome.” So, it was inevitable that someone would suggest the day after Thanksgiving we should remember to say, “You’re welcome.” 

    The phrase “you’re welcome” covers a variety of thank yous in English. Whether the appreciation is coming from an individual or a group, “you’re welcome” works. It can be said while giving a hug, a handshake, or a smile. When we really mean that our effort was meant with care, “you’re very welcome” goes a long way. Our tone and facial expressions say a lot, too.

    However, in other languages, “you’re welcome” doesn’t translate so well. The plural and singular “you” is part of the problem. Also, in some languages, the phrase is unknown altogether. Variations of a response to a show of appreciation exist all over the world, but “you’re welcome” as a polite social necessity seems to only exist in English. 

    Other similar responses in English exist, but they don’t seem as automatic making them more sincere when spoken. Try these examples out the next time someone thanks you:

    • It was our pleasure.
    • I was honored to do it. 
    • Our home is your home. 
    • I was happy to (fill in the blank).
    • It was a delight having you.
    • I hope someone will do the same for me if I’m ever in the same predicament.
    • We enjoyed (fill in the blank).
    • This is our favorite thing to do!

    HOW TO OBSERVE #YoureWelcomegivingDay

    What is your favorite way of saying “you’re welcome”? Do you know someone who has a memorial way of making people feel at ease when they’ve completed a favor? You know, someone who is always helping out, and when you go to thank them, they are either gone or their genuine response is something other than “You’re welcome,” but means the same thing.  

    On You’re Welcomegiving Day, say “You’re welcome” in your own way. Whether you host an event, volunteer, or help someone out, what’s your favorite way to say, “You’re welcome”? Let us know by using #YoureWelcomegivingDay to post on social media.

    YOU’RE WELCOMEGIVING DAY HISTORY

    Richard Ankli of Ann Arbor, Michigan, creator of the unreasonable holiday Sourest Day and the rhyming May Ray Day, designated You’re Welcomegiving Day in 1977 as a way to create a four-day weekend.

    You’re Welcome FAQ

    Q. What are some other ways to say “You’re welcome”?
    A. “You’re welcome” is often sufficient. However, if you’re looking to mix it up, try these phrases out:

    • It was my pleasure.
    • I was happy to help.
    • I’m glad you asked.
    • You’re very welcome.
    • Anytime.
    • Don’t mention it.

    Q. What are some humorous ways to say “You’re Welcome”?
    A. When you help out a friend, casual and funny ways to say “you’re welcome” include:

    • The bill is in the mail.
    • You owe me one.
    • Who else would you ask? Bill Gates?
    • Don’t let word get out that I’m nice.
    • I’m trying to get off Santa’s naughty list.
    • I’ll take ________ as payment.

    Q. What are some fun ways to say “you’re welcome” when you give a gift?

    • I went dumpster diving for it, so you should thank me.
    • I just re-gifted it.
    • It was free.
    • I plan to borrow it often.

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

     

  • MAIZE DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    MAIZE DAY

    Maize Day, on the day after Thanksgiving, recognizes the importance of a plant common across the Americas. 

    The day is set aside for all Americans, regardless of heritage, to celebrate corn’s traditional role on the North American continent.

    While other plant life was transplanted and imported, corn was common across the Americas. It was a central food source used by all the nations and an essential part of their everyday diet. The day also celebrates the traditional crops and foods of Native Americans.

    There are many varieties of maize. Depending on the kind of maize, it may make delicious corn tortillas. Others are best roasted and eaten on the cob. And of course, some kinds of maize make perfect popping corn. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE #MaizeDay

    Serve a meal featuring ingredients used by Native Americans. There is quite a bounty of food to choose from, too.

    The rivers, lakes, and oceans supply a variety of delicious fish. Enjoy some salmon, bluegill, trout, or channel catfish with your sweet corn tonight. All across the country, our gardens grow many vibrant and tasty squash full of texture and flavor. Perhaps a corn and zucchini salad will make it on the menu.  We also grow beans, asparagus, tomatoes, and of course, maize.

    In our fields and on our trees, we grow so many varieties of nuts. Some of them grow wild still. We also pluck from the trees sweet persimmons, and in the fields, we’ve carefully tended the hives where the bees make the honey. Together, honey and corn make an irresistible honey butter skillet. Cattails, dandelions, mushrooms, and chicory delight our meals with seasonal goodness, much like the corn we savor on the grill or ground for our tortillas. Which one will you try tonight? Use #MaizeDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL MAIZE DAY HISTORY

    Artist Corinne Lightweaver started national Maize Day in 2004.

    This holiday began as a small research project through which I intended—with my family—to commemorate the United States holiday of Thanksgiving through the viewpoint of the indigenous people. – Corinne Lightweaver

    Maize FAQ

    Q. What products are made from corn?
    A. This versatile grain provides a variety of food uses including cereals, sweeteners such as corn syrup, starches, and oils. But we also derive many other products from corn. It’s also used in textiles, cosmetics, pyrotechnics, and medicines.

    Q. Where is corn grown?
    A. While corn is native to North America and the United States is its largest producer, other countries grow corn, too. Some of the highest producers outside North America include China, Ukraine, and India.

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

     

  • BUY NOTHING DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    BUY NOTHING DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    BUY NOTHING DAY

    Buy Nothing Day is observed annually on the day after Thanksgiving. This day is part of a movement against consumerism, urging the world to change their purchasing habits, to consume and produce less. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE #Buy Nothing Day

    Instead of shopping, stay home, and relax.

    Or you can try these ways to show support for the day.

    • Cut up credit cards.
    • Do a Whirl-mart – the act of disrupting others shopping by pushing your shopping cart around a store over and over while purchasing nothing.
    • Organize a Christmas Zombie walk – a visual expression of the obsession consumers have with Black Friday deal.
    • Balance your checkbook.
    • Read a book about counter-consumerism like the Empire of Things by Frank Trentmann.
    • Clean out your closet.
    • Donate or volunteer at a local food pantry. 

    Use #BuyNothingDay to post on social media.

    BUY NOTHING DAY HISTORY

    Buy Nothing Day originated in Canada in September of 1992 as a way to protest the frenzy of Black Friday shopping. In 1997, the day’s founder, artist Ted Dave, moved the day to the Friday after Thanksgiving to correspond with one of the most popular shopping days in the United States.

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

     

  • BLACK FRIDAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    BLACK FRIDAY

    In the United States, the day after Thanksgiving has become known as Black Friday and is considered the official kick-off for holiday shopping. Retailers across the country slash prices, offer doorbuster deals on popular big-ticket items, and often open in the wee hours of the morning to extend early bird specials. Dedicated and thrifty shoppers line up outside the stores to be the first to grab that special deal or this season’s popular and hard-to-find gift.  

    Despite being the traditional kick-off to holiday shopping, Black Friday isn’t the only day retailers slash prices. These days, many retailers begin deals and specials right after Halloween. Many also offer special, exclusive deals to their online or app-using shoppers.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #BlackFriday

    Get out for those amazing Black Friday deals.

    There are several ways to maximize your Black Friday shopping success:

    • Plan ahead. Scour the ads both online and in newspapers.
    • Prioritize the wish list.  Which item will you save the most if you can nab it?
    • Check to see if any of the deals are available online. Why stand in line when you can order from the comfort of your home?
    • Compare lists with friends and family. We can’t be in two places at once, and not all the deals on your lists will be at the same store.
    • Coordinate with your group to divide and conquer.  Work as a team to maximize successful shopping.
    • Make sure there isn’t a purchase limit.  If there is, make sure the team for that store is big enough to obtain the required number of bounty.
    • Set the alarm clock.  Some of the best Black Friday deals start soon after midnight.
    • Dress warm if you are located in the colder regions of the country.
    • Pack a snack, a thermos of tea or coffee, and maybe even a lawn chair.  Those lines and the wait get long.
    • Work in pairs. You don’t want to lose your place in line if nature calls.

    Black Friday shopping just isn’t your style?  That’s okay.   Then all you will need for that is an internet connection and a credit card.

    Use #BlackFriday to post on social media.

    BLACK FRIDAY HISTORY

    The origin of Black Friday is derived from the enormous amount of sales retailers report which can often bring their profits into the black. Black in accounting is used to describe a business making a profit as opposed to being in the red denoting losses.

    Before 1980, the term Black Friday had a more ominous term in sports. It was considered a curse. For example, in 1981, on March 13th (an unlucky Friday) the 76ers lost for the second Friday the 13th in a row. Sportswriters used the term Black Friday in reference to their bad luck.

    In another reference, the term described the dread of employees who would potentially be without jobs on a Friday. It also reflected the darkest and widest spread financial impacts – the fall of Wall Street. The Black Friday of 1869 may be the earliest use of the term.

     

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

  • TURKEY FREE THANKSGIVING – Fourth Thursday in November

    TURKEY FREE THANKSGIVING

    Turkey Free Thanksgiving is observed annually on the fourth Thursday in November.

    There are several supportive perspectives for the removal of the turkey from the Thanksgiving feast. From the foodie point of view, there are many more scrumptious proteins than the humble gobbler.  There are also vegetarian and animal rights viewpoints, which are self-explanatory.

    Regardless of your perspective, choices abound for a delicious spread without a turkey on Thanksgiving Day. When you keep the yams, sweet corn casserole, pumpkin pie, and mashed potatoes, there are only a few other items left to fill the table. Proteins come in a variety of forms. Chickpeas and quinoa pack a lot of protein. Stuff them along with cheese and seasonings into bell peppers for a colorful centerpiece. For those who need meat on the table, roast a leg of lamb or serve tender prime rib.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #Turkey Free Thanksgiving

    Enjoy Thanksgiving without a turkey. We’ve provided a few recipes to try, but be sure to share your favorite turkey-free Thanksgiving options, too!

    Curried Potato and Lentil Soup
    Sweet Potato and Tatertot Hotdish
    Chickpea and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

    Use #TurkeyFreeThanksgiving to post on social media.

    TURKEY FREE THANKSGIVING HISTORY

    Within our research, National Day Calendar® was unable to identify the origins of this day.

    DATES:
    24 November 2022
    23 November 2023
    28 November 2024
    27 November 2025
    26 November 2026
    25 November 2027
    23 November 2028
    22 November 2029
    28 November 2030
    27 November 2031

  • NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING – Fourth Thursday in November

    NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING

    Each year on the fourth Thursday in November recognizes the National Day of Mourning. The observance is an opportunity to reflect on Native American heritage and the role Thanksgiving played in the lives of their ancestors.  

    The organizers of this observance consider Thanksgiving Day as a continued reminder of the democide and suffering of Native American people. Since 1970, participants in the National Day of Mourning have honored Native ancestors and their struggles to survive today. Part of the mission behind the event is to educate Americans about the history of Thanksgiving.  

    Organized by United American Indians of New England (UAINE) during a period of Native American activism, the march has brought about revisions in the depiction of United States history and government and settler relationships with Native American peoples as well as a renewed appreciation for their culture. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalDayOfMourning

    Consider taking another look at American history and the many varied Native American cultures all across the United States. Examine the relationships, traditions, customs, beliefs. Are you looking for a place to start? An excellent resource is firstnations.org. They offer a comprehensive reading list for all ages. The topics are varied and provide recommendations from their staff as well.

    For streaming options, look for films like Our Spirits Don’t Speak English, Dreamkeeper, Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, Imprint, or The Cherokee Word for Water

    Use #NationalDayOfMourning to post on social media.

    NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING HISTORY

    Since 1970, an annual march and rally organized by United Americans Indians of New England take place on the fourth Thursday in November, the same day as Thanksgiving. They honor Native ancestors while educating the American public. While the event coincides with a similar protest, Unthanksgiving Day held on the West Coast, the two events are unrelated.

     

    DATES:
    24 November 2022
    23 November 2023
    28 November 2024
    27 November 2025
    26 November 2026
    25 November 2027
    23 November 2028
    22 November 2029
    28 November 2030
    29 November 2031

  • NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY

    National Native American Heritage Day on the day after Thanksgiving honors American Indians across the nation. The day celebrates the vibrant cultures, traditions, and heritages while recognizing Native Americans’ many contributions.

    The day encourages listening to Native American voices and fostering pride in the vibrant and layered heritage embedded deep within our society.

    In the United States today, Native Americans contribute to society daily. Whether through art or government, their insight and perspective elevate an art form or a district. They serve in the military, the medical, and legal fields. Their knowledge wins battles large and small.

    Carol Metcalf-Gardipe – Geologist

    Ms. Gardipe’s many roles include director of the American Indian Engineering Program (the first of its kind) and one of seven founders of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES). She is also a professor, administrator, and an award-winning geologist who held positions with the U.S. Geological Survey, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.

    Lila Downs – Musician

    The Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter immigrated from Oaxaca, Mexico, and has been singing since she was eight years old. While her Latin style speaks to a global audience, her music also has heavy jazz influences.

    Deb Haaland (Rep-D)

    Representative Haaland was elected to Congress in 2019 from New Mexico’s 1st District. She has served on the Armed Services Committee and Natural Resources Committee. Both parents served in the U.S. Military. Her father was in the Marines, and her mother was in the Navy.

    Emory Sekaquaptewa – Anthropologist

    Hopi linguist, anthropologist, scholar, educator, artist, and appellate court judge Emory Sekaquaptewa is best known for developing the first Hopi language dictionary.

    Master Sgt. Woodrow W. Keeble

    In 2008, Keeble became the first full-blooded Sioux Indian to receive the Medal of Honor. During a battle in the Korean War, his actions saved the lives of fellow Soldiers. He was born in 1917 in Waubay, SD, but spent most of his life growing up near Wahpeton, ND. As the war heated up in Europe, Keeble joined the North Dakota National Guard in 1942. His service included World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He earned the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Combat Infantryman Badge in addition to the Medal of Honor.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NativeAmericanHeritageDay

    To celebrate Native American Heritage Day, try any of the following:

    • Read a story about or by a Native American.
    • Visit one of many Native American museums, heritage centers, or historical sights.
    • Try a delicious Native American recipe.
    • Watch a movie or documentary about or by a Native American.
    • Participate in or watch a game of Lacrosse.
    • Attend one of many seminars, performances, or events honoring Native American culture across the country.

    Use #NativeAmericanHeritageDay to post on social media.

    NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY DAY HISTORY

    Riding horseback from state to state in 1914, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot Indian, sought endorsement from 24 states to support a national day recognizing and honoring Native Americans. He presented these endorsements to the White House the following year. At the time, the U.S. government didn’t proclaim a national day. However, the state of New York declared the second Saturday in May as American Indian Day.

    In 1986, the 99th Congress passed a joint resolution authorizing the President to proclaim November 23-30, 1986, as American Indian Week. President Ronald Reagan declared the first American Indian week that year and each year following his presidency. President George H.W. Bush continued the proclamations until 1990, when he approved a joint resolution to declare November as National American Indian Heritage Month. This tradition has continued annually. In 2008 the Native American Heritage Day Act was enacted by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush on October 8, 2008.

    Native American FAQ

    Q. How many Native American tribes remain today?
    A. There are 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States. There are additional tribes recognized only at the state level. In addition, hundreds of other tribes continue to go through the process of federal recognition.

    Q. What is a reservation?
    A. A tribal reservation is a section of land reserved for the tribe. In some instances, this was land set aside by the tribe before relinquishing their remaining land to the government. In other instances, the government designated the land through government actions.

    Q. Do only Native Americans live on reservations?
    A. No. Some non-natives live and own land on reservations. And, not all Native Americans choose to live on a reservation.

    Q. What foods do we eat today come from Native American culture?
    A. Across the United States, Native American culture is as diverse as any other, including Native American food. Many foods cultivated by Native Americans are incorporated into the food tradition of the United States, such as pumpkin and corn. However, some dishes are quintessentially Native American.

    Native American Dishes
    • Frybread – Native Americans developed this delicious bread out of necessity. Unable to obtain traditional foods such as beans, corn, and wild rice, Native Americans utilized the foods made available to them by the government. Try frybread sprinkled with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or honey. Another way to enjoy fry bread is an Indian Taco, topped with ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
    • Wild Rice – Unlike white rice, wild rice is native to North America and was a staple food for indigenous people. Today it’s still served in various dishes, including soups or combined with mushrooms, nuts, berries, and herbs.
    • Succotash – This stew usually contains corn, squash, and beans and dates back to the 17th century. While recipes evolved, they include these primary three ingredients. The result is a hearty, flavorful stew packed with nutrients.

    Q. What are some films by Native Americans?
    A. Recent films by Native Americans include:

    • Run Woman Run directed by Zoe Leigh Hopkins
    • Neither Worlf Nor Dog directed by Steven Lewis Simpson
    • Rez Metal directed by Ashkan Soltani

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

     

  • NATIONAL DAY OF LISTENING – Day After Thanksgiving

    NATIONAL DAY OF LISTENING

    On the day after Thanksgiving, National Day of Listening encourages you to gather your family and friends and record family history and stories for preservation. The program, created by StoryCorps, reminds us of the value our stories hold. 

    ” …every life matters equally, every voice matters equally, every story matters equally…”  David Isay, founder of StoryCorps

    Have you ever wondered what Grandma’s favorite memory is or how your father got that scar on his brow? What’s the story behind a friend’s nickname?  Recording stories and sharing them gives breath to them. When we gather with family and friends, we often reminisce. And while not all memories are pleasant, they hold a power over us that needs to be released. Telling them and sharing them lets our friends and families learn some of the lessons, some of our culture and heritage. Our stories connect us, and hearing others’ stories opens our eyes to the broader world. 

    We’re made of many experiences and the experiences of those who’ve gone before us. Spend the day listening to their stories. Record them. Share them. Interview someone close to you or someone new to you. Let them become an indelible part of your life. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalDayOfListening

    Interview a friend or family member and record the interview.

    StoryCorps provides a DIY guide as well as lists of Great Questions based on who you interview.

    There is no format requirement for recording the interviews on National Day of Listening. Whether you record them onto digital devices, a tape recorder, or pen and paper, the essential part is to record the story for future generations. If you record in a digital format, you can also upload the recording to StoryCorps’ using an app or use #NationalDayofListening to post on social media.

    National Day Calendar® Classroom followers, join the project! Visit the classroom for ideas to engage your students on #NationalDayofListening.

    NATIONAL DAY OF LISTENING HISTORY

    In 2008, the non-profit organization, StoryCorps, launched the National Day of Listening to encourage families to set aside the day after Thanksgiving as a time to share and record the history of their family, friends, and community.

    Listening FAQ

    Q. Why is listening important?
    A. We listen for a variety of reasons and the way we listen changes based on those reasons. 

    Reasons We Listen
    • Informational – We listen to gain information, knowledge, or understanding about a topic or someone’s background. 
    • Critical – We listen to evaluate, compare, or judge. We use this type of listening when someone is trying to convince us of something like a sales pitch, job interview, political debate.
    • Empathetic – We listen to provide comfort to the speaker, usually someone who has experienced a loss or trauma.
    • Enjoyment – We listen to the stories our family tells, television shows, radio programs, and music because it entertains or brings us joy. 

    Q. How do I make sure I’m listening?
    A. There are several ways to engage in active listening. 

    • Eliminate distractions. Shut the door, turn off the tv or radio, and put down their phone.
    • Make eye contact. Don’t stare into their eyes; that’s creepy. Look toward their face and let your eyes meet as you hear their words. Eye contact conveys to the speaker that they have your attention.
    • Nod, tilt your head, make facial expressions when appropriate. If you’re paying attention, these actions will happen naturally.
      • nod when you understand or agree
      • smile when the speaker tells a funny experience
      • tilting your head to show interest
    • Ask questions. Not only does this show you’re listening but encourages the speaker to keep talking. 
    • Repeat what the speaker said in your own words.

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

     

  • NATIONAL FLOSSING DAY – Day After Thanksgiving

    National Flossing Day - Day After Thanksgiving

    NATIONAL FLOSSING DAY

    After enjoying a grand meal, National Flossing Day reminds us to take care of our teeth and gums. This health observance takes place each year on the day after Thanksgiving!

    The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day to achieve the best results for oral health. Daily flossing removes plaque from areas between your teeth where a toothbrush is ineffective.  Plaque can turn into calculus or tarter so it is important to floss daily.  Flossing is also an important step in the prevention of gum disease and cavities.

    When is National Smile Day?

    Taking care of our teeth and gums is an important health practice that helps us enjoy many Thanksgiving dinners to come. There are a variety of flossing products that help us take care of teeth. We can use waxed or unwaxed floss. Minty wax gives our gums a fresher breath. The floss removes food particles and prevents plaque build-up between cleanings.

    For more information on flossing, go to www.Flossing.org.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFlossingDay

    This would be a good day to develop the habit of flossing. Do you ever wonder who invents the things that keep our teeth healthy? We explore 9 Inventors Who Influenced Dentistry to answer some of your questions. Use #NationalFlossingDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL FLOSSING DAY HISTORY

    The National Flossing Council created National Flossing Day in the year 2000.

    Flossing FAQ

    Q. I’ve never flossed. Is it too late to start?
    A. It’s never too late to start flossing.

    Q. What does flossing do?
    A. Flossing removes food particles and plaque your toothbrush can’t reach. It helps reduce the risk of tooth decay.

    Q. What kinds of floss are available?
    A. Manufacturers produce several kinds of dental floss. Most flosses are waxed, but not all and they come in different thicknesses so you can choose one based on the spacing of your teeth. They also come in various flavors, though mint is often preferred for fresh breath. If dexterity makes it difficult to floss, you can also choose a dental pick that has a piece of floss threaded on a stick making it easy to reach every tooth.

     

    DATES:
    25 November 2022
    24 November 2023
    29 November 2024
    28 November 2025
    27 November 2026
    26 November 2027
    24 November 2028
    23 November 2029
    29 November 2030
    27 November 2031

  • NATIONAL SARDINES DAY – November 24

    NATIONAL SARDINES DAY – November 24

    NATIONAL SARDINES DAY

    November 24th recognizes these silver little fishes on National Sardines Day. They may not swim right up to your plate, but they sure do pack in the flavor. 

    While some people are afraid to taste these small, silver fish, others consider sardines a delicious snack enjoyed on their own or with crackers.

    Sardines are several types of small, oily fish, related to herrings. While we might be most familiar with sardines packed in cans, some enjoy fresh sardines grilled. This small fish can also be pickled and smoked, too. When canned, they can be packed in water, olive, sunflower or soybean oil or tomato, chili or mustard sauce.

    The term sardine was first used in English during the beginning of the 15th century, possibly coming from the Mediterranean island of Sardinia where there was an abundance of sardines.

    Sardines are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
    From one’s daily vitamin allowance containing:

    • 13 % B2
    • .25 % niacin
    • 150% vitamin B12
    • phosphorus
    • calcium
    • potassium
    • iron
    • selenium
    • omega-3fatty acids
    • vitamin D
    • protein

    – B vitamins are important in helping to support proper nervous system function and are used for energy metabolism.
    – Omega 3 fatty acids reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular disease and regular consumption may reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease and can even boost brain function as well as help lower blood sugar levels.

    Relative to other fish commonly eaten by humans, sardines are very low in contaminants, such as mercury.

    Sardine oil is used in the manufacturing of paint, varnish and linoleum.

    The sardine canning industry peaked in the United States in the 1950s.  The Stinson Seafood plant in Prospect Harbor, Maine, which was the last large sardine cannery in the United States, closed its doors on April 15, 2010, after 135 years in operation.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalSardinesDay

    Share a can or two of canned sardines with a friend. See if you prefer the mustard, chili, or tomato-packed ones better! Use #NationalSardinesDay to post on social media.

    Look, if you Celebrate Every Day® most years, this is the only holiday on this date. So we’ll offer some extra special tips to help you celebrate. 

    • Try sardines on a salad. Mash them up and mix them with some Caesar dressing for a start. Add some extra croutons if that improves the experience.
    • Toss them with pasta and a spicy marinara sauce.
    • Grill them with olive oil. Add lemon, garlic, and tarragon.

    NATIONAL SARDINE DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this uncanny holiday. 

    Sardine FAQ

    Q. Are sardines the only kind of fish that are canned?
    A. No. A variety of fish are sold in canned form. Some of those include:

    • Herring
    • Salmon
    • Mackerel
    • Tuna
    • Trout

    Q. Do you eat the entire sardine?
    A. You can and many people do. The bones are edible.

    Q. Can you cook canned sardines?
    A. Yes. Canned sardines can be cooked in all the same ways that fresh fish are cooked.

     

    November 24th Celebrated (And Not So Celebrated) History

    1874

    The U.S. Patent Office issues patent No. 157,124 to Joseph F. Glidden for a type of barbed wire fencing that helped signal the end of the cowboy era. It also brought around the era of large scale farming on the range that was not possible before.

    1877 

    Author Anna Sewell publishes her only novel, Black Beauty: The Autobiography of A Horse.

    1963 

    Jack Ruby kills Lee Harvey Oswald, the assassin of President John F. Kennedy.

    1993

    Mrs. Doubtfire directed by Chris Columbus and starring Robin Williams, Sally Field, and Pierce Brosnan opens in theaters.

    November 24thCelebrated (And Not So Celebrated) Birthdays

    Grace Darling – 1815

    In 1838, a ship collided with rocks along the shore during a storm near the lighthouse Grace Darling’s father kept. In the morning, her family discovered survivors who had found some refuge on the remains of the wreckage. The lighthouse keeper and his daughter set out in a rowboat on the rough seas to rescue them. The legendary story made Grace Darling a British heroine.

    Frances Hodgson Burnett – 1849

    The novelist is best known for her children’s novels Little Lord Fauntleroy, A Little Prince, and The Secret Garden.

    Scott Joplin – 1868

    While his exact birth date is unknown, the prolific ragtime composer and singer earned him the title of “King of Ragtime.” His most popular composition, Maple Leaf Rag, also brought him a steady income until the end of his young life.

    Robert Sengstacke Abbott – 1870

    In 1905, the attorney and publisher established The Chicago Defender. It quickly grew into the most circulated black-owned newspaper in the United States.

    Bessie Blount Griffin – 1914

    As an innovative scientist, nurse, and physical therapist, Blount used her experience during World War II to improve the lives of veterans. She received several patents, including one that is still in use today.

    William F. Buckley – 1925

    The editor founded the conservative magazine National Review in1955.