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National Stay Out of the Sun Day

Celebrate National Stay Out of the Sun Day - put on sunscreen and hats, and enjoy the shade with a cool drink and some fun activities!

Friday

July 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEJuly 3

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYWellness

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Stay Out of the Sun Day on July 3 by taking extra precautions to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays! This day was first celebrated in 2005 with the purpose of raising awareness about how overexposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause serious health problems. It's a great opportunity to remind yourself and others that sunscreen, hats, clothing and sunglasses are essential when outdoors.

TIMELINE

National Stay Out of the Sun Day Timeline

Discovery of UV Radiation

In the late 1800s, scientist Johann Wilhelm Ritter discovered ultraviolet radiation, a component of the sun's rays which can cause skin damage.

Introduction of Sunscreen

Airman Benjamin Green invented a rudimentary sunscreen to protect soldiers during World War II, paving the way for modern sun protection products.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) scale for rating sunscreen effectiveness was developed, helping people choose appropriate sun protection.

First Global Warming Warning

Scientist Sherwood Rowland warned that human action could deplete the ozone layer, increasing the level of harmful UV radiation that reaches Earth.

UV Index Introduction

The Environmental Protection Agency and the National Weather Service in United States introduced the UV Index to raise awareness about the risk of sun damage.

First Stay Out of the Sun Day

National Stay Out of the Sun Day was first celebrated to increase awareness about the dangers of sun exposure and to promote sun-safe behaviors.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Stay Out of the Sun Day

Watch a movie indoors

Pick out your favorite movie, pop some popcorn, and enjoy a good movie from the comfort of your own home.

Go to an indoor amusement park

Most cities have an indoor amusement park where you can ride roller coasters, play games, and much more without having to worry about the sun.

VISIT

Visit an indoor water park

Indoor water parks are fun for all ages and are a great way to beat the heat without having to worry about the UV rays.

PLAY

Play board games

Grab some friends and get ready for a day full of fun with board games like Monopoly, Scrabble and much more!

HAVE

Have a picnic indoors

Grab some blankets and lunch supplies, then head into your living room for a picnic. Enjoy the food, conversation and company without ever having to step outside.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Stay Out of the Sun Day is Important

Encourages alternative activities inside

National Stay Out of the Sun Day encourages people to take part in alternative activities inside rather than out in the sun. This is a great way for people to take control of their own destiny by leading an active lifestyle away from harmful rays and spending more quality family or me time indoors.

Protects from UV damage

Spending time indoors during National Stay Out of the Sun Day helps protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun. UVA and UVB rays can cause premature aging, skin cancer, and other long term health issues that could possibly be avoided with diligent protection.

Can help avoid a sunburn

Sunburns are painful and can last for days or weeks. They can also increase your risk of getting skin cancer in the future. Staying out of the sun on National Stay Out of the Sun Day is a great way to practice safe sun exposure and minimize your chances of getting a nasty burn!