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Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day

A fun observance on March 29 commemorating the unique historical event when Niagara Falls ran dry due to ice blockage on March 29, 1848.

Monday
29
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEMarch 29
OBSERVED INInternationally
CATEGORYCulture
SUBCATEGORYCivics
ORIGIN

Community Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY
Not documented
FIRST OBSERVED
Not documented
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

It is an informal commemoration of the natural event on March 29, 1848, when ice blockages from Lake Erie caused Niagara Falls to run dry for approximately 30 hours.

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INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to witness a rare and fascinating event on March 29 – Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day! This day commemorates the time in 1848 when an ice jam caused the waterfall to temporarily stop flowing. While it may seem impossible for one of the world's most famous waterfalls to ever run dry, this historical event serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictable nature of nature. So mark your calendars and be a part of this unique experience that only happens once in a blue moon.

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TIMELINE

Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day Timeline

First Written Description of Niagara

Niagara Falls is first described in detail by European explorer Samuel de Champlain's assistant, Étienne Brûlé, kickstarting its fame.

Niagara Falls Runs Dry

On March 29, an ice jam in the Niagara River upstream of the falls causes the water flow to stop temporarily, resulting in the "Falls running dry".

State Preservation of Niagara

Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S, is established to help preserve Niagara Falls' natural beauty.

First Person Over the Falls

Annie Edson Taylor is the first person to successfully go over the falls in a barrel, furthering national interest.

Man-made Falls Dry Spell

The American Falls portion of Niagara Falls is intentionally dammed for several months for geological conservation purposes.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day

EDITOR'S PICK

Take a hike to the dry falls

On this unique day when Niagara Falls runs dry, take the opportunity to hike down to the basin and explore the normally inaccessible areas. You may even find some hidden treasures!

HOST

Host a water conservation workshop

Use this day as a chance to educate others about the importance of water conservation. Host a workshop where you can discuss ways to reduce water usage and help keep Niagara Falls flowing all year round.

CREATE

Create a DIY waterfall display

Get creative and make your own waterfall display using materials like rocks, pebbles, and blue fabric. This is a fun and unique way to celebrate Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day and pay homage to the iconic falls.

PLAN

Plan a day trip to a nearby waterfall

If you can't make it to Niagara Falls on this day, plan a trip to a nearby waterfall and appreciate the beauty and power of nature. It's also a great opportunity to learn more about the importance of water conservation.

WATCH

Watch a documentary about Niagara Falls

Celebrate Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day by learning more about the history and significance of the falls. There are many documentaries available that showcase the beauty and majesty of Niagara Falls, as well as its impact on the surrounding area.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day

It offers a unique perspective and photo opportunity

Without water cascading over the falls, you get a rare view of the rock formations behind Niagara Falls. This can be a fantastic photo opportunity for both amateur and professional photographers alike, capturing a one-of-a-kind moment in time.

It's a rare and unique occurrence

The Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day is not something that happens every year, making it an exciting and intriguing event to witness. It's a phenomenon that draws in tourists from all over the world, adding to its wonder and appeal.

It showcases the power and beauty of nature

When Niagara Falls runs dry, it gives us a chance to appreciate the sheer force of nature and the impact it has on our surroundings. It's a reminder of how small we are compared to the forces at work in the world around us.

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