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National D.A.R.E. Day

Say "no" to drugs and "yes" to National D.A.R.E. Day - a day dedicated to promoting healthy choices and drug prevention education for our youth!

Tuesday

September 2026

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

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YEARLY DATESeptember 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to stand up against drugs and violence on National D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Day on September 15! This day was first established in 1983 by the Los Angeles Unified School District as a way to educate students about the dangers of drug use and promote positive decision-making skills. Since then, it has grown into a national observance that is celebrated in schools across the country, with special events and activities focused on empowering young people to say "no" to drugs and violence. So let's come together and make a difference in our communities on this important day!

TIMELINE

National D.A.R.E. Day Timeline

D.A.R.E. Program Launch

The Los Angeles Unified School District initiates the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program to educate students about drug prevention.

D.A.R.E. Goes Nationwide

The D.A.R.E. program is scaled across the United States, reaching thousands of schools nationwide.

First D.A.R.E. Day

The first National Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Day is officially observed on September 15.

Curriculum Update

The D.A.R.E. program revamps its curriculum, placing a greater emphasis on social and emotional learning.

Prevention through Technology

D.A.R.E. launches "Keepin' it REAL," an interactive program that uses digital media and innovative technologies to educate students about drug prevention.

D.A.R.E.'s COVID-19 Response

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, D.A.R.E. adapts its programs to digital platforms, sustaining the education around drug prevention amidst school closures.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National D.A.R.E. Day

Take the D.A.R.E. pledge

Start the day off by taking the D.A.R.E. pledge and commit to making healthy and responsible choices.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community clean-up

Get involved in your community by organizing a clean-up event. This is a great way to give back and make a positive impact on the environment.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a drug-free activity

Celebrate National D.A.R.E. Day by participating in a drug-free activity, such as hiking, playing sports, or going to a concert.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local D.A.R.E. program

Contact your local D.A.R.E. program and see if they need any volunteers for events or activities. It's a great way to support the cause and make a difference in your community.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread awareness about the importance of making healthy and responsible choices, and encourage others to do the same on National D.A.R.E. Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National D.A.R.E. Day is Important

It celebrates those who have graduated from the D.A.R.E. program

D.A.R.E. Day is also a day to honor and recognize those who have successfully completed the D.A.R.E. program and have committed to living a drug-free life. It serves as a reminder that it is possible for individuals to make positive changes and avoid the dangers of drugs.

It promotes awareness about the dangers of drugs

D.A.R.E. Day serves as a reminder to individuals and communities about the harmful effects of drugs on both individuals and society. It is important to educate people, especially young children, about the risks and consequences associated with drug use.

It supports drug prevention programs in schools

D.A.R.E. Day helps raise funds for the D.A.R.E. program, which works to prevent drug use and violence among youth through education and community outreach. By supporting this program, you are helping to ensure that children receive vital information and resources to make healthy choices.

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