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National River Day

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and reconnect with nature on National River Day! Grab your kayak, fishing pole, or hiking boots - it's time to explore.

Tuesday

February 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 2

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNature

SUBCATEGORYOcean

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the beauty and importance of rivers on National River Day on February 2! This day was created with the goal of raising awareness about the vital role that rivers play in our ecosystems, as well as promoting conservation efforts. Rivers have been a crucial part of human civilization for thousands of years, providing transportation, food, and resources to communities all over the world. So take this opportunity to appreciate and protect these natural wonders by participating in river cleanups or simply taking a stroll along your nearest waterway. Let's make every day feel like National River Day!

TIMELINE

National River Day Timeline

Fire on the Cuyahoga River

An oil slick on Ohio's Cuyahoga River caught fire, spurring greater awareness and activism around waterway pollution.

Founding of the EPA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was founded to consolidate federal research, monitoring, standard-setting, and enforcement activities related to environmental protection, including that of rivers.

Clean Water Act

The U.S. Congress passed the Clean Water Act in response to widespread water pollution, including in rivers, establishing a regulatory structure for improving water quality.

River Rescue Campaign Launch

The first River Rescue campaign was launched in the U.S., driven by national organizations and local groups to clean up and maintain rivers across the country.

Establishing of World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day was established, which also included a focus on the conservation and protection of riverine environments, and is celebrated on February 2 each year, worldwide.

First National River Day

The first national River Day was celebrated to highlight and appreciate the value of rivers and to encourage river conservation.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National River Day

Go on a river cruise

Experience the beauty of rivers by taking a river cruise. You can choose from different types of cruises such as a sightseeing cruise, dinner cruise, or even a party cruise.

EXPLORE

Explore a new river

Take the day to explore a new river in your area. Research different hiking trails, water activities, and scenic spots along the river to make the most of your adventure.

HOST

Host a river clean-up event

Gather some friends or community members and organize a river clean-up event. This is a great opportunity to give back to your local environment and make a positive impact on the health of the river.

HAVE

Have a picnic by the river

Pack a basket full of delicious snacks and find a nice spot by the river to have a picnic. Enjoy the peaceful sounds of the water and the beautiful scenery while you relax and enjoy your meal.

TRY

Try river rafting or tubing

For the more adventurous, try out some water sports on the river like rafting or tubing. Make sure to follow safety precautions and have fun riding the rapids!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National River Day

The activities on National River Day are fun for all

From whitewater rafting to simply relaxing by the riverbank, there are endless activities to enjoy on National River Day. It's a great opportunity to get outside with friends and family and experience the joy and tranquility that these flowing waters offer.

It celebrates the beauty of rivers

Rivers are a vital part of our ecosystem and provide so much natural beauty to our world. National River Day is a time to appreciate and honor these majestic bodies of water that have played an important role in human civilization for centuries.

It's a reminder to protect our rivers

Unfortunately, with pollution and other environmental concerns, our rivers are constantly at risk. National River Day serves as a reminder to take care of these valuable resources and do our part in preserving them for future generations.

Related holidays

SUN

Sep 2026

Nature

World Rivers Day

Embrace the flow this World Rivers Day - explore, protect, and appreciate our planet's vital waterways that teem with life and splendour.

National Rivers Month

Dive into National Rivers Month and connect with the beauty of nature - from kayaking adventures to peaceful picnics by the water, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

International Day of Action For Rivers

An environmental advocacy day on March 14 raising awareness about the importance of rivers, protesting destructive dams, and demanding equitable and sustainable river management.