11 saved#4,981 of 6,224

Darwin Day

Get ready to honor the father of evolution on Darwin Day! Join us for educational events, discussions, and activities that celebrate his groundbreaking work.

Friday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEFebruary 12

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYFamous People

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the life and achievements of one of the most influential scientists in history on February 12 – Darwin Day! This day honors the birth anniversary of Charles Darwin, who is best known for his theory of evolution by natural selection. Not only did he change the way we perceive our origins, but his work also continues to inspire and shape scientific research today. So let's take a moment to appreciate the impact of his discoveries and how they have shaped our understanding of the world around us.

TIMELINE

Darwin Day Timeline

Birth of Charles Darwin

Charles Robert Darwin was born on February 12, 1809, in Shrewsbury, England.

Voyage of the Beagle

Darwin sets sail aboard the HMS Beagle, a voyage that fuels his interest in natural history and leads to critical observations for his theory of evolution.

On the Origin of Species

Darwin publishes his ground-breaking book, "On the Origin of Species," outlining his theory of evolution through natural selection.

Humanist Community Inception

First unofficial celebration of Darwin Day by the Humanist Community of Silicon Valley, aiming to promote science education and honor Darwin's contribution.

Darwin Day Program

The official Darwin Day Program is launched by the American Humanist Association, with activities and events held worldwide to celebrate Darwin's life and achievements.

Recognizing Darwin Day

Congressman Jim Himes introduces a resolution in the United States House of Representatives to officially recognize Darwin Day on February 12.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Darwin Day

Visit a natural history museum

Take a trip to your local natural history museum to learn about evolution and the work of Charles Darwin. You can also attend special events or exhibits that may be happening on Darwin Day.

READ

Read Darwin's works

Celebrate Darwin Day by reading some of Charles Darwin's most famous works, such as "On the Origin of Species" or "The Descent of Man". These books are not only educational but also provide insight into Darwin's groundbreaking theories.

ATTEND

Attend a lecture or discussion

Many universities and organizations hold lectures and discussions about evolution and Charles Darwin on Darwin Day. Attend one of these events to learn more and engage in meaningful discussions with others.

PLANT

Plant a tree

In honor of Darwin's contributions to science and nature, plant a tree on Darwin Day. This is a symbolic way to celebrate his legacy and also help the environment.

ORGANIZE

Organize a science-themed party

Gather friends and family for a science-themed party on Darwin Day. You can have activities such as trivia games, experiments, and discussions about evolution and Charles Darwin.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Darwin Day is Important

It raises awareness about ongoing issues in science

On Darwin Day, we not only celebrate past achievements in science, but also raise awareness about current issues facing our planet. This includes climate change, biodiversity loss, and the importance of conservation efforts. By honoring Darwin's work, we are reminded to continue striving towards progress and sustainability in the scientific world.

It honors the contributions of Charles Darwin

Darwin Day is a celebration of the life and work of Charles Darwin, the father of evolutionary theory. It's a time to recognize his pioneering ideas and the impact they have had on our understanding of the natural world.

It promotes scientific literacy

Darwin Day is an opportunity to promote scientific literacy and critical thinking. By learning about evolution and its evidence, we can better understand the complexities of life on Earth and how we as humans are connected to all other living beings.

Related holidays

SUN

Mar 2026

School

Celebrate Scientists Day

An appreciation day on March 14 honoring the contributions and achievements of scientists in advancing knowledge, improving lives, and exploring the natural world.

National Science Day

Get ready to embrace your inner scientist and explore the wonders of the world on National Science Day! From experiments to discoveries, let's celebrate all things science.

World Anthropology Day

Unearth the story of humanity on World Anthropology Day! Explore the richness of cultural diversities and human evolution. Let's appreciate our roots!

23Read

SAT

Feb 2026