137 saved#1,595 of 6,224

National Proposal Day

A fun observance on March 20 encouraging marriage proposals and commitment, celebrating new beginnings on the first day of spring.

Saturday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEMarch 20

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYRelationships

SUBCATEGORYRomance

ORIGIN

Individual Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

John Michael O'Loughlin

FIRST OBSERVED

Not documented

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

John Michael O'Loughlin founded the observance after witnessing his cousin wait years for a marriage proposal that never came. He set it on March 20, the vernal equinox, symbolizing new beginnings, balance, and a second chance after Valentine's Day.

Institutional Recordvia nationaldaycalendar.com

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Proposal Day on March 20th! This special day was created to honor the sweetest moment in a relationship when one partner pops the question. It's an especially meaningful celebration for those who have already been through that unforgettable experience of being asked and said "Yes!" For those yet to take that step, it's a reminder of the romantic possibilities ahead.

TIMELINE

National Proposal Day Timeline

Origin of Engagement Rings

The tradition of presenting an engagement ring to signify lifelong commitment was reportedly popularized in the late 1800s as diamond mines were discovered, making them more accessible.

Diamond Engagement Rings Boom

After World War II, diamond engagement rings became the standard after a successful marketing campaign by De Beers.

Public Proposals Popularity Grows

Thanks to the influence of film and TV, public proposals at large events or famous landmarks started becoming more popular.

National Proposal Day Created

John Michael O'Loughlin, an American writer and insurance agent, creates National Proposal Day to encourage lovebirds to express their feelings.

Rise of Social Media Proposals

With the rise of social media platforms, sharing and viewing proposals has become an increasingly popular trend, contributing to the holiday's popularity.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Proposal Day

Plan an intimate dinner

Invite your significant other over for a romantic dinner. Cook their favorite dish and make it extra special with candles, flowers, and their favorite music.

WRITE

Write a love letter

Write down all the reasons why you love them and how you want to spend the rest of your life with them. Roll it up in a scroll and give it to them in a box with a ring inside.

ARRANGE

Arrange a scavenger hunt

Create clues that will lead your significant other to the spot where you will propose. At the end of the hunt have a ring waiting for them.

TAKE

Take a hot air balloon ride

Fly away in a hot air balloon while taking in the scenic views of your city or countryside. Pop the question while floating above the clouds.

ORGANIZE

Organize a surprise party

Surprise your significant other by throwing them an engagement party, complete with family and friends to share the moment with you both.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Proposal Day is Important

It celebrates commitment

National Proposal Day offers an opportunity for couples to celebrate and demonstrate their commitment to each other through a special moment. A proposal is an important milestone in any relationship that can bring two people closer together.

It promotes relationship communication

National Proposal Day is a great way to encourage communication and understanding between couples, families or even friends. It encourages partners to talk about their plans for the future, discuss important issues, prioritize goals and appreciate one another.

It's a special day

Proposing on National Proposal Day is a special experience that will be remembered for years to come. It's an opportunity to show your loved one that they are worth celebrating and cherishing in a unique and meaningful way.

Related holidays

MON

Feb 2026

Relationships

Propose Day

On Propose Day, take the leap and ask that special someone to spend forever with you. It's a day for love, courage, and new beginnings!

Kiss Your Fiance Day

A fun observance on March 20 encouraging engaged couples to share kisses, deepen intimacy, and celebrate their relationship despite the pressures of wedding planning.

205Read

WED

Feb 2026