National Oceans Month

Next celebratedTuesday, June 1, 2027

Dive into National Oceans Month with us! Join in on beach cleanups, educational events, and eco-friendly activities to preserve our beautiful oceans.

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAll of June

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYNature

SUBCATEGORYOcean

INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to dive into a month-long celebration of our beautiful oceans on National Oceans Month, which begins on June 1! This annual event was established in 1988 by the US Congress to honor and protect our world's oceans and marine life. Not only do oceans cover over 70% of the Earth's surface, but they also play a crucial role in sustaining life on our planet. From providing us with food and oxygen to regulating climate, there are countless reasons why we should appreciate and preserve these vast bodies of water. So let's make the most out of this month by learning more about our oceans and taking action to protect them for future generations to come.

TIMELINE

National Oceans Month Timeline

National Oceans Month's Beginning

US Congress officially established June as National Oceans Month to honor the world's oceans and marine life.

First UN Conference on Environment

Ocean preservation became a global concern following the first UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro.

National Ocean Policy Established

President Barack Obama established a national policy for conservation and use of the oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes.

Deepwater Horizon Disaster

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill becomes the largest marine oil spill in history, fueling conservation efforts during National Oceans Month.

First World Oceans Summit

The first World Oceans Summit is held by The Economist, highlighting the importance of ocean conservation.

Ocean Plastic Crisis Attention

Research on the enormity of the ocean plastic crisis gained global attention, reinforcing the importance of ocean health and sustainable practices during National Oceans Month.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Oceans Month

Go on a beach clean-up

Get involved in helping to keep our oceans clean by organizing or participating in a beach clean-up event. This is a great way to give back to the environment and celebrate National Oceans Month.

ATTEND

Attend an ocean conservation workshop

Educate yourself on the importance of ocean conservation by attending a workshop or seminar hosted by a local conservation organization. You'll learn about the impact of human actions on the ocean and what you can do to help.

TRY

Try a new water sport

Celebrate the beauty and vastness of the ocean by trying out a new water sport such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking. Not only will you have fun, but you'll also appreciate the ocean even more.

HOST

Host a seafood cook-off

Gather some friends and family and host a seafood cook-off! Everyone can bring their favorite seafood dish to share and you can even make it a competition with prizes for the best dish.

WATCH

Watch a documentary about the ocean

Spend a night in and watch a documentary about the ocean. This is a great way to learn more about our oceans and appreciate their beauty and importance in our world.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Oceans Month is Important

It promotes responsible actions towards the ocean

By educating the public on issues such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change, National Oceans Month encourages people to make responsible choices when it comes to their own impact on the ocean. This could include reducing plastic waste or choosing sustainable seafood options.

It raises awareness for ocean conservation

National Oceans Month is an important time to bring attention to the pressing issue of ocean conservation. Through various events and campaigns, people are encouraged to learn more about the impact of human activities on our oceans and how we can take action to protect them.

It highlights the importance of marine life

Our oceans are home to a vast array of amazing creatures - from tiny plankton to giant whales. National Oceans Month brings attention to the beauty and diversity of marine life and encourages people to appreciate and protect these incredible animals.

Related holidays

TUE

Jun 2026

Nature

World Oceans Day

Protect our oceans and join the global movement to save our seas - celebrate World Oceans Day with us!

National Marine week

Dive into the excitement of National Marine Week and discover the wonders of our oceans with fun events, educational activities, and conservation efforts!

Mother Ocean Day

On Mother Ocean Day, let's give thanks to the vast and beautiful waters that sustain life on our planet. Let's also pledge to protect it for future generations!

International Coastal Cleanup Day

Join us in making a difference this International Coastal Cleanup Day - help clean our beaches and oceans and make the world a better place!

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