137 saved#1,619 of 6,224

National Therapeutic Recreation Month

Get ready to relax and recharge during National Therapeutic Recreation Month - join in on activities like yoga, hiking, and art therapy for a month of self-care!

Monday

1–28

February 2027

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

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAll of February

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYHealthcare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Therapeutic Recreation Month throughout the entire month of February! This special month recognizes and celebrates the important role that therapeutic recreation plays in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities or other health conditions. Whether it's through sports, leisure activities, or creative arts, therapeutic recreation helps individuals enhance their physical, emotional, and social well-being. So join in on the fun and activities this month as we highlight the positive impacts of therapeutic recreation!

TIMELINE

National Therapeutic Recreation Month Timeline

Birth of Recreational Therapy

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) was founded, promoting the significance of recreational therapy in healthcare.

First Educational Program

The first recreational therapy curriculum was established at the University of Minnesota.

Licensure and Certification

The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) was created to credential recreational therapists.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act increased recognition and demand for recreational therapy.

Growing Acceptance

The 2000s saw a wider acceptance of therapeutic recreation, with increases in both research and practice.

National Therapeutic Recreation Month

National Therapeutic Recreation Month was established to raise awareness and encourage participation in engaging therapeutic activities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Therapeutic Recreation Month

Attend a therapeutic recreation event

Look for local events or workshops that are being held in honor of National Therapeutic Recreation Month. Attend one to learn more about the importance and benefits of therapeutic recreation.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a recreational therapy program

Contact your local hospitals, nursing homes, or community centers to see if they have any recreational therapy programs that could use some extra help. Spending time volunteering can be a great way to celebrate and give back during this special month.

TRY

Try a new recreational activity

Take advantage of this month to try out a new recreational activity that you've always been curious about. It could be something as simple as painting, yoga, or hiking. Trying new things can be therapeutic and fun!

Share your own story

If you or a loved one has benefited from therapeutic recreation, share your story with others. This can help spread awareness and encourage others to try it out for themselves.

HOST

Host a therapeutic recreation themed party

Gather friends and family for a fun and educational party celebrating National Therapeutic Recreation Month. Have activities and games that showcase the benefits of therapeutic recreation and raise awareness about the field.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Therapeutic Recreation Month is Important

It raises awareness and understanding about the positive impact of therapeutic recreation

Many people may not be aware of the benefits of therapeutic recreation for those with disabilities or illnesses. National Therapeutic Recreation Month helps to educate others about this specialized field and the positive changes it can bring to individuals' lives.

It promotes the importance of leisure activities for overall health and well-being

Therapeutic recreation utilizes recreational activities to improve physical, emotional, and social well-being. National Therapeutic Recreation Month highlights the significant role that leisure and recreation play in rehabilitation and quality of life.

It recognizes the hard work and dedication of therapeutic recreation specialists

Therapeutic recreation practitioners are highly skilled professionals who use creative and purposeful intervention techniques to support individuals with disabilities or illnesses. This month is an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to improving the lives of others.

Related holidays

Occupational Therapy Month

This Occupational Therapy Month, join us to recognize and celebrate the amazing work of occupational therapists in improving lives!

National Physiotherapy Month

It's time to recognize and appreciate the hardworking physiotherapists who keep our bodies moving! Join us in celebrating National Physiotherapy Month.

National Activity Professionals Day

Honor those who spark joy and actively engage people in life on National Activity Professionals Day. Let's acknowledge their vital role in well being!

National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day

Join the movement and advocate for dance/movement therapy on National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day - let's promote healing through movement!

26Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API