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National Cousins Day

Show your cousins some love on National Cousins Day - plan a picnic, have a movie night, or take a fun road trip!

Friday

July 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEJuly 24

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYRelationships

SUBCATEGORYFamily

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate the special bond of cousins everywhere on National Cousins Day on July 24! This day was created in 1998 as a way to recognize and commemorate the unique relationship between cousins. It's a great opportunity to get together with your extended family and show them just how much they mean to you! Whether it's having an outdoor picnic, playing board games inside, or going out for ice cream, make sure that this special day is filled with plenty of fun activities.

TIMELINE

National Cousins Day Timeline

Initiation of National Cousins Day

National Cousins Day was started to honour and appreciate the special bond between cousins.

National Media Coverage Begins

National Cousins Day started getting covered by national media, increasing its popularity and recognition.

Customs and Traditions Established

Common practices like organizing picnics, movie nights or road trips are established as a way to celebrate this day.

Online Recognition

Online platforms and social media started recognizing this day, with people sharing photos, experiences, and love for their cousins.

Zoom Celebrations

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many shifted their celebrations to digital platforms like Zoom, maintaining the spirit of the day while keeping safe.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Cousins Day

Plan a family reunion

Gather all your cousins and their families together for a special day of catching up. Have everyone bring a dish and make it a potluck style event. You can even plan fun activities like board games, scavenger hunts, or team sports.

SEND

Send a care package

Show your appreciation from afar with a cute care package full of goodies. Include some homemade treats or snacks, a special message, and photographs to capture the memories.

ORGANIZE

Organize a video chat

Make sure all your cousins have the opportunity to celebrate together by setting up a video chat on Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime. It's the perfect way to catch up and reminisce about old times.

WRITE

Write letters

Rather than sending an email, take the time to write out an old fashioned letter expressing your love and appreciation for your cousins. They'll be sure to cherish it for years to come!

PLAY

Play an online game

Gaming is one of the best ways to bond with your cousins! Have everyone join in on an online game or app that you can play together from different locations.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Cousins Day

Cousins can offer advice

Since cousins tend to be close in age, they often share similar life experiences which make them someone you can turn to when looking for advice. They will listen empathically as you seek out their opinion and offer constructive commentary every step of the way.

Cousins bring lots of fun

Cousins are great because they provide an opportunity for cousins both near and far to come together and enjoy each other's company. Whether you're having a sleepover or bonding over a game night, there's always plenty of laughter and memories to be made with your cousins!

Cousins are like family

Your cousins may not be related by blood, but they feel like family nonetheless! Cousins understand the importance of being connected and that is why it is important to take the time to recognize them on National Cousins Day.