March 1
Refired Not Retired Day
A fun observance on March 1 celebrating retirement as a launchpad for new adventures, passions, hobbies, and living life fully.
Phyllis May
Individual Initiative
Phyllis May, a retired educator who moved to Key West, Florida on March 1, 1998, created Refired Not Retired Day around 2004 to promote viewing retirement as an exciting new chapter of adventure and purpose rather than slowing down.
Introduction
Get ready to celebrate Refired Not Retired Day on March 1 by embracing the idea of starting a new chapter in your life, no matter your age or stage. This day was created as a way to encourage individuals to see retirement as an opportunity for reinvention and exploration, rather than an end to their active lives. It's all about staying engaged, pursuing passions and discovering new interests. So let's raise a glass to those who are refiring instead of retiring – because age is just a number and there's always more to experience in life!
Refired Not Retired Day Timeline
How to Celebrate Refired Not Retired Day
1
Host a retirement party
Celebrate not being retired by throwing a retirement party! Invite friends and family and have a blast reminiscing about the past and looking forward to the future.
2
Try something new
On Refired Not Retired Day, challenge yourself to try something new. Whether it’s a new hobby, activity, or adventure, embrace the idea of constantly learning and growing.
3
Volunteer in your community
Take the opportunity to give back to your community by volunteering on Refired Not Retired Day. Find a cause or organization that you are passionate about and make a difference in someone else’s life.
4
Have a mid-career crisis party
Celebrate being refired by throwing a mid-career crisis party! Dress up as your dream job or have a themed party centered around your future goals and aspirations.
5
Plan a trip or vacation
Take some time to relax and celebrate Refired Not Retired Day by planning a trip or vacation. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a big international adventure, treat yourself to some well-deserved time off.
Why We Love Refired Not Retired Day
It's a celebration of staying active and engaged in retirement
Refired Not Retired Day is all about challenging the idea that retirement means slowing down and becoming less active. Seniors who stay mentally and physically engaged are known to lead longer, healthier lives - so let's celebrate those who choose to stay "refired" rather than retired!
It's a reminder to pursue your passions during retirement
Retirement doesn't have to mean leaving behind everything you love. Refired Not Retired Day encourages seniors to continue pursuing their passions, whether it's traveling, volunteering, or trying new hobbies. Don't let age hold you back from following your dreams!
It promotes a positive attitude towards aging
Instead of viewing retirement as a stage of life where we slow down and become less productive, Refired Not Retired Day celebrates aging as a time for growth and new experiences. It's important to embrace the changes that come with getting older and see it as an opportunity for self-discovery and personal development.
Holiday Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Mar 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | Mar 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | Mar 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | Mar 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | Mar 1 | Monday |



