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National Apology Day

Don't let National Apology Day pass you by without mending relationships and making things right - forgiveness is the key to a happy heart.

Saturday

February 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 13

OBSERVED INAustralia

CATEGORYRelationships

SUBCATEGORYFriendship

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to say "I'm sorry" and make amends on National Apology Day, celebrated on February 13! This holiday originated in Australia in 2004 as a way to encourage people to apologize for past wrongdoings and start the new year with a clean slate. It's a great reminder that taking responsibility for our actions and showing genuine remorse can help repair relationships and promote forgiveness. So don't hesitate to reach out and mend any broken ties or old grudges on this meaningful day. After all, a heartfelt apology can go a long way in healing wounds and bringing people closer together.

TIMELINE

National Apology Day Timeline

National Apology Day Inception

This holiday was officially recognized in Australia as a day to encourage apologies for past wrongdoings, and starting afresh.

Significant Apology in Australia

Australia's prime minister, Kevin Rudd, delivered an official apology to Indigenous Australians for the harmful policies of past Australian governments, particularly the Stolen Generations.

Growth in Recognition

The holiday began being recognized beyond Australia's borders, promoting forgiveness and reconciliation on a global scale.

Social Media Influence

With the rise of social media, National Apology Day started trending online, creating a larger platform for individuals to offer apologies and foster forgiveness.

Celebrating Virtually

Amid the global Covid-19 pandemic, National Apology Day was celebrated virtually, offering a platform for digital resolutions and restarts.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Apology Day

Write a heartfelt apology letter

Take the time to sit down and write a sincere apology letter to someone you have wronged. This small gesture can go a long way in repairing a damaged relationship.

MAKE

Make amends with a kind gesture

Actions speak louder than words, so show your remorse by doing something kind for the person you want to apologize to. It could be as simple as bringing them their favorite coffee or offering to help with a task.

ATTEND

Attend an apology workshop

If you struggle with apologizing, consider attending an apology workshop. These classes can help you learn how to effectively communicate your apologies and make amends.

HAVE

Have a conversation with the person

Sometimes the best way to apologize is to have an open and honest conversation with the person you have wronged. Listen to their perspective and take responsibility for your actions.

PRACTICE

Practice self-forgiveness

On National Apology Day, take the time to forgive yourself for any past mistakes and make a commitment to do better in the future. Self-forgiveness is just as important as asking for forgiveness from others.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Apology Day is Important

It brings closure and resolution

Sometimes, apologies are necessary for us to move forward from past conflicts or hurtful situations. National Apology Day provides an opportunity for individuals or groups to seek closure and find resolution in their relationships, leading to personal growth and connection with others.

It encourages accountability and reconciliation

National Apology Day is an important reminder to take responsibility for our actions and apologize for any harm we may have caused to others. It can also foster forgiveness and begin the process of healing and repairing relationships.

It promotes empathy and understanding

Apologies require us to put ourselves in someone else's shoes and acknowledge their feelings. This can lead to greater empathy and understanding towards others, creating a more compassionate and connected society.

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