This one is absolutely unequivocally to good to pass up. 

So we can see how times have impacted payment for teeth, how much did you receive from the Tooth Fairy?

NATIONAL TOOTH FAIRY DAY – February 28

National Day Calendar

February 28th, National Tooth Fairy Day, encourages us to take a look back on the history of one of dental care’s little helpers. It’s one way our children develop good dental hygiene. 

#NationalToothFairyDay

Like some of the fantastic creations who oversee children, the tooth fairy is a relative newcomer to the world of childhood fantasies.

1920s

In the mid-1920s, fairies were used for all sorts of health education, from bath fairies to fresh air fairies as a way to get kids to remember to eat their vegetables, wash behind their ears and get a good night’s rest. Like toothpaste today advertises fruity flavors and sparkles to get kids excited to brush their teeth, in 1925, it was probably quite a bit more difficult considering the pastes were mostly peroxide and baking soda. One advertisement was for a Fairy Wand Tooth Whitener. This product promised to brush away cigarette and coffee stains. The ad was aimed at both children and adults, we hope!

Then in 1927, Esther Watkins Arnold printed an eight-page playlet for children called The Tooth Fairy. The same year Sir Arthur Conan Doyle “proved” his claim that fairies and gnomes are real and “verified” with pictures of two little girls surrounded by fairies. The world was ripe with imagination and primed to have a tooth fairy to come collect the lost teeth of little boys and girls and leave a coin or two behind.

Arnold’s play began to be performed in schools the following year, and the tooth fairy has been slipping into homes ever since. She (or he) started leaving nickels and dimes under the pillows of sleeping children. Over the years, there have been variations on the theme.

1942

In 1942, in an article written by columnist Bob Balfe in the Palm Beach Post, his children received War Stamps to put in their books when they lost a tooth. It was a popular alternative during a time when giving to the war effort was a motivating factor.

Today

Today, the tooth fairy jingles less often. The average payout for a lost tooth ranges from $3 to $4 and can go even higher if Dad is on duty or if the tooth is lost late at night with no time for a parent to run to an ATM.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TOOTH FAIRY DAY

• Make an appointment for your next cleaning.
• Ask your parents if they still have the first tooth you lost.
• Be a tooth fairy!
• Volunteer or give to dental organizations. Many of them provide free or low-cost dental care to those who cannot afford it. Others support dental students in their educational journey. These organizations are a vital part of our communities and states. You can also give a shout-out to your favorite organization. Be a tooth fairy to those near you. We found a few that might interest you. America’s Dentists Care Foundation, Missions of Mercy  National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, also known as America’s Toothfairy
• Download this coloring page to celebrate!
• Use #NationalToothFairyDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL TOOTH FAIRY DAY HISTORY

Children’s author, Katie Davis, created the February 28th observance of National Tooth Fairy Day. While there is also an August 22nd observance, it is interesting to note the two observances are six months apart and the American Dental Association’s recommendation to have cleanings twice annually. 

Toothfairy FAQ

Q. Do other countries believe in the tooth fairy?
A. Fairies, in general, are found worldwide, but the tooth fairy is a unique creature. The United Kingdom practices similar tooth fairy traditions. However, in other parts of the world like Spain, France, and Mexico, a little mouse pays a visit leaving little treats in exchange for the tooth.

Q. Are adults visited by the tooth fairy?
A. No. Losing an adult tooth usually means a visit to the dentist.

Q. When do children usually lose their first tooth?
A. Children lose their first tooth around the age of 6 years old.

February 28th Celebrated History

1827

Baltimore, Maryland merchants chartered the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the first railroad in America to offer commercial service to both people and freight. They hoped to better compete with New York for trade from the west.

1935

Dr. Wallace Carothers develops the synthetic polymer nylon. The chemist developed the material while working for DuPont, and its invention led to many applications including toothbrush bristles, women’s stockings, cord, fabrics, furniture, and more.

1940

The University of Pittsburgh squares off against Fordham University at Madison Square Garden in the first televised basketball game. NBC broadcast the hoops event with Pittsburgh winning 57-37.

1976

Paul Simon takes home two wins at the 18th annual Grammy Awards. Still Crazy After All These Years won Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance. Andy Williams hosted. Other winners included Natalie Cole won Vest R&B Vocal Performance for “This Will Be” and Stephen Sondheim took home Song of the Year for “Send in the Clowns” from the Broadway hit A Little Night Music.

1983

The beloved television show M*A*S*H airs its final episode. A record 106 million viewers tune and the show still holds the record for a season finale viewership.

February 28th Celebrated Birthdays

John Tenniel – 1820

The political cartoonist is better known for his illustrations for Lewis Carroll’s fantasy novels Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.

Dee Alexander Brown – 1908

The historian and author of numerous books is better known for his work Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee.

Vincente Minnelli – 1910

The American film and stage director is known for directing classic musicals, including Meet Me in St. Louis and The Band Wagon. He won Academy Awards for An American in Paris and Gigi.

Tommy Tune – 1939

The 10-time Tony-winning actor, dancing, director, and choreographer is known for his Broadway productions. From Seesaw to A Joyful Noise and Grand Hotel, his performances and productions are always stellar.

Mario Andretti – 1940

For 36 years, the Italian-born American racing driver kept the heat on stock car, U.S. championship, and Formula One racers. He drove them all.

Bernadette Peters – 1948

The award-winning actress graced both stage and screen, sharing her humor and musical talents. Peters keeps us in stitches in The Jerk and plays a memorable Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun.

Mercedes Ruehl – 1948

The immensely talented dramatic actress, Mercedes Ruehl, has earned several awards for her performances on both stage and screen. Her role as Anne in The Fisher King earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Ruehl earned a Tony for her role as Bella in the Neil Simon drama Lost In Yonkers. She revived the role for the 1993 opposite Richard Dreyfus.

Notable Mentions

Bugsy Siegel -1906
Bubba Smith – 1945
John Turturro – 1957
Rae Dawn Chong – 1962

NATIONAL CLAM CHOWDER DAY – February 25

National Day Calendar

Each year on February 25th people across the nation have a bowl and spoon ready to be filled with clam chowder as they prepare to participate in National Clam Chowder Day.

#NationalClamChowderDay

A clam chowder in its simplest form is a soup or stew containing clams or fish. The most common type of chowder includes milk or cream as well as potatoes, though the Manhattan clam chowder has tomatoes.

The origin of the word “chowder” is up for a little bit of debate.  The French word for cauldron is “chaudiere.”  The English word “jowter” means fish peddler.  Both are on the hook for possible origins.

 In chowder, along with the clams, it is common to find diced potatoes, onions (often sautéed with pork or bacon drippings) and celery.

Following is a list of the basic clam chowder variants:

• New England clam chowder
• Manhattan clam chowder
• Rhode Island clam chowder
• Delaware clam chowder
• New Jersey clam chowder
• Hatteras clam chowder
• Minorcan clam chowder
• Long Island clam chowder
• Puget Sound clam chowder

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CLAM CHOWDER DAY

Make your region’s best clam chowder. Better yet, have a clam chowder taste-off!

• Invite friends and family to cook up a variety of chowders from all over the country and try them all.
• Let us know which one you liked best. Maybe you’ll find a new appreciation for chowders. 
• Use #NationalClamChowderDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL CLAM CHOWDER DAY HISTORY

While we dig for the origins of this piping hot holiday, we don’t mind if we have another serving or two to keep us warm. How about you?

Today is, also, Chocolate Covered Nut Day.

NATIONAL TORTILLA CHIP DAY – February 24

National Day Calendar

National Tortilla Chip Day on February 24th celebrates a crunchy chip that provides a multitude of ways to enjoy it! The day also shares the chip’s history and many ways to enjoy this delicious snack food. 

#NationalTortillaChipDay

Everyone loves tortilla chips! We most commonly served them with salsa, chile con queso, guacamole, cheese dips, or other dips. Tortilla chips are made from corn tortillas cut into wedges and then fried. The tortillas are made from corn, vegetable oil, salt, and water. Typically made with yellow corn, tortillas can also be made with white, blue, or red corn.

Even though tortilla chips have always been considered to be Mexican food, known as tostadas, they were first mass-produced in Los Angeles in the late 1940s.Rebecca Webb Carranza receives credit for making the crisp chips popular. She and her husband operated a deli and tortilla factory in Los Angeles. And its creation happened almost by accident!

Inspiration struck when the tortilla manufacturing machine discarded the misshapen tortilla. Carranza realized they could be cut into triangles and fried. She then sold them for a dime a bag at the El Zarape Tortilla Factory. Carranza received the Golden Tortilla Award in 1994 for her contribution to the Mexican food industry.

The United States is one of the primary markets for tortilla chips.

Another favorite dish made with tortilla chips is nachos.  Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya created the dish we call nachos around the year 1943. The tortilla chips are served with melted or shredded cheese. Additional toppings are often added, such as meat, salsa, refried beans, tomatoes, diced onion, lettuce, olives, jalapenos, guacamole, and sour cream.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TORTILLA CHIP DAY

• Celebrate by eating tortilla chips!
• Make some nachos.
• Make homemade tortilla chips.
• Invite friends and family to enjoy tortilla chips with your favorite toppings.
• Visit a local restaurant with the best fresh-made chips. Don’t forget to give them a shout-out, too!
• Use #NationalTortillaChipDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL TORTILLA CHIP DAY HISTORY

Nacho sure who originated this day, but we’re pretty sure they loved tortilla chips! We’ll let you know when we know more.

Tortilla Chip FAQ

Q. How many calories are in a tortilla chip?
A. One tortilla chip contains approximately 10 calories.

Q. Are there grain-free tortilla chips?
A. Yes! Visit National Grain-Free Day for some ideas.

Q. Who celebrates National Tortilla Chip Day?
A. Anyone who likes tortilla chips celebrates the day. You might even find deals at restaurants and pubs to make the celebration even better!

February 23

Founded in 2017 by National Day Calendar® and Coverings.

National Day Calendar

NATIONAL TILE DAY

On February 23rd, National Tile Day recognizes a timeless element of architecture and design. Around the world, tile plays a variety of roles. From the modest to the sublime, tile proves to be versatile and attractive.

#NationalTileDay

Historically, only the wealthy could afford tile in their homes. The expense of handmade or small batch production meant tiles were difficult for the ordinary person to obtain. With the advent of the industrial revolution, tile not only became more affordable but the designs and features expanded with the technology.

Beautiful tile finds its way into every room of the home, outdoor spaces, commercial and industrial buildings by providing an infinite number of styles through color, texture, and dimension.  The durability and energy efficiency of tile adds value, and no material is more sustainable or has lower maintenance costs.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TILE DAY

• Take time to appreciate the quality craftsmanship of the tile work around you.
• If a remodel or building is in your future, consider tile in your design. Tile offers not only texture but color and warmth too.
• Share your experience with tile design and its versatility indoors and out. What are your favorite styles and latest innovations in tile?
• Explore tile designs for your home or business.
• Share your story or image showing why you choose tile with #NationalTileDay on Instagram and Twitter.

NATIONAL TILE DAY HISTORY

Coverings, the largest international tile & stone show in North America, founded National Tile Day in 2017 to shine a spotlight on the benefit of tile in residential and commercial design.

The Registrar at National Day Calendar® declared the day to be observed annually on February 23rd.

Learn more about National Tile Day at www.coverings.com/ntd

Tile FAQ

Q. What materials are used when making tile?
A. Tile can be made from a variety of materials including ceramic, glass, concrete, stone, terra cotta, and composite materials.

Q. What sizes do tiles come in?
A. Tile can be as small as tiny mosaic tile or in larger custom sizes that cover large sections of wall, floor, or countertop.

Q. Is there a room where tile doesn’t belong?
A. No. Any room of the house can accommodate tile if the setting is right. Rugs soften the feel of tile without completely covering the beauty. Furnishings and fabrics for draperies do the same thing.

Today there is honorable mention of two other celebrations for today:

National Dog Biscuit Day: Note to RogueUnicorn, I told Lucy about this. She expects a celebration.

National Banana Bread Day: Note to WhiteKnightLeo and this is the only day we expect to hear anymore about this topic.

NATIONAL COOK A SWEET POTATO DAY –

February 22

National Day Calendar

Across the United States, National Cook A Sweet Potato Day on February 22nd celebrates a root vegetable packed with flavor and a bit of history, too. The sweet potato is eaten and loved, each day, by millions of people across the nation.

#CookASweetPotatoDay

Either Central America or South America is thought to be the center of origin and domestication of sweet potatoes. In Central America, sweet potatoes were domesticated at least 5,000 years ago. Peruvian sweet potato remnants dating as far back as 8,000 BC have been found in South America. 

The sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports good vision, the immune system, and bone growth. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin B-6, magnesium, and vitamin C.  It’s also great for the complexion. 

While many Americans confuse the sweet potato with a yam, the two are different. A yam is a starchy tuber while the sweet potato is truly a sweet root vegetable. The sweet potato also comes in a variety of sizes and colors, including pale to bright orange, white, and purple. High in fiber and low in fat and calories, this root vegetable is a healthful alternative to snack foods when prepared without added butter, sugar, or salt.

Unlike other potatoes, sweet potatoes like long, hot growing seasons. This might explain why it is the state vegetable of North Carolina.  

When storing your sweet potatoes, keep them in a cool, dry place. However, don’t refrigerate them unless they’re cooked. Refrigeration will give them a bitter taste, ruining their sweet flavor.Cooks find numerous ways to experiment with sweet potatoes, too! 

HOW TO OBSERVE #CookASweetPotatoDay

• Cook a sweet potato.
• Make your favorite recipe.
• Invite others to join you for a meal.
• Learn about the benefits of sweet potatoes.
• Read about these 7 Ways to Cook a Sweet Potato for more ideas.
• Use #CookASweetPotatoDay to post on social media

NATIONAL COOK A SWEET POTATO DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this sweet potato cooking challenge. 

Sweet Potato FAQ

Q. How do I cook a sweet potato?
A. There are several ways to cook a sweet potato. In most cases, you can treat the root vegetable just like a white potato. For example:

• Bake it. Top it with butter, brown sugar or drizzle a little honey on it.
• Cut it into bite-sized pieces, season it and roast it in the oven.
• Make potato fries. You can bake, air fry or deep fry them.
• Mash it with a little butter.

Q. What goes well with sweet potatoes?
A. If you can think of a dish, sweet potatoes probably go well with them. This vegetable is quite versatile.

NATIONAL STICKY BUN DAY | February 21

National Day Calendar

National Sticky Bun Day on February 21st recognizes a delicious pastry that comes rolled up and dripping with a sweet, sugary topping. They’re perfect with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or as an after-dinner sweet!

#NationalStickyBunDay

Known as “schnecken” meaning snail, the sticky bun is rolled into a sweet spiral resembling its German name. Still considered to be a Pennsylvania specialty, many believed the sticky bun’s origin in the United States began in the 19th century. German settlers brought their baking traditions with them when they began settling in and around Philadelphia.

Most often served for breakfast or as a dessert, sticky buns consist of rolled pieces of leavened dough. Most contain brown sugar and sometimes cinnamon. Before the dough is placed in the pan, the pan is lined with sticky sweet ingredients such as maple syrup, honey, nuts, sugar, and butter. When the buns are finished baking, the baker flips the pan upside-down so the sticky bottom becomes the topping.

Famous cousins to the sticky bun are the cinnamon roll, caramel roll and monkey bread. 

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL STICKY BUN DAY

If you are craving this delicious sticky delight, try making some of your own with one of these sticky bun recipes. You can also stop by your local bakery and pick up their freshly baked sticky buns. Serve them with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. 

Use #NationalStickyBunDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL STICKY BUN DAY HISTORY

While enjoying a sticky bun, we’ll continue researching the origin of this sweet day. 

Sticky Bun FAQ

Q. What kinds of nuts are best on sticky buns?
A. Pecans and walnuts are quite popular in sticky bun recipes.

Q. What kinds of spices usually go into sticky buns?
A. Common (and delicious) spices that usually go into sticky bun recipes include cinnamon, ginger, and star anise.

Q. Can I freeze leftover sticky buns?
A. We’re not sure what a leftover sticky bun is, but yes, you can freeze sticky buns. Wrap them well and place them in a freezer-safe container.

NATIONAL LOVE YOUR PET DAY – February 20

National Day Calendar

On February 20th, pet lovers everywhere observe National Love Your Pet Day. This holiday focuses on giving extra attention to our pets. The day encourages pampering our pets and focusing on the special relationship pets hold in our lives.

#NationalLoveYourPetDay

Did you know that most households in the United States have at least one pet? While there are more cats than dogs in the United States, more households have dogs than cats, but not by much. Pets are not limited to the canine and feline categories.  There are quite a few who prefer the companionship of birds, reptiles, fish, or rats. Whoever your pet companion is, we are sure you will enjoy spending a little extra time with them on National Love Your Pet Day and reap the benefits, as well such as stress relief and lower blood pressure. So on February 20th (and every day) show your appreciation to your pets!

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL LOVE YOUR PET DAY

• Bring your pet a special treat. 
• Take your pet for an extra-long walk. 
• Give them your undivided attention.
• Check that their vaccines are up to date.
• Watch a pet video with them full of cats, dogs, and other critters. 
• Give them a few extra strokes with the brush while grooming. 
• Practice their favorite commands – sit, shake, rollover. 
• Play their favorite game or bring out their best toy.
• Inspect their toys to make sure they’re in good shape. Throw out any broken toys. 
• Wash their bedding, even if it’s not their laundry day. Let them fluff it up just the way they like it. 
• Whatever you decide to do, spoil and appreciate your pets! Use #NationalLoveYourPetDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL LOVE YOUR PET DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this pet-friendly day. While we do, we don’t mind if we snuggle an extra minute with our furry friends, too!

Love Your Pets FAQ

Q. I don’t have a pet. Can I celebrate the day?
A. Yes. You might not have pets, but you might be a pet lover. Visit a shelter or ask a friend if you can spend time with their pets. 

Q. My pets are stuffed animals like Teddy bears and dolphins. Is it ok if I love those pets today?
A. Yes. Show them some love. Re-organize them. Get them a new wardrobe. Have a tea party. 

Q. Do all pets like to snuggle?
A. It depends on the pet. Even as snuggly as a cat may seem, many of them do not like to snuggle. And while that boa constrictor seems awfully friendly, we wouldn’t mistake his attitude as snuggle-friendly. 

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE MINT DAY – February 19

National Day Calendar

Recognized by the US National Confectioners Association, National Chocolate Mint Day is observed annually across the nation on February 19th. This holiday has been set aside for all the chocolate mint lovers to eat their favorite treats all day long.

#ChocolateMintDay

The Aztecs and Mayans are given much credit for their ways with chocolate. And while chocolate was brought back to Europeans, they were not fond of the dark, bitter bean, so they used more for medicinal purposes.

As it was mostly consumed as a hot beverage, Europeans mixed mint, cinnamon and other spices to make it more palatable. Over time, they added sugar, and the combination of chocolate and mint became fashionable.

Fast forward to the mid-1800s when inventions and improvements in processes made it possible for confectioners to begin mass-producing chocolates. Even then, small candy shops served a local public. Advertisements for mint chocolates, or chocolate mints, did not start showing up in newspapers until the turn of the century.

The International Dairy Foods Association states that mint chocolate chip is the 10th most popular flavor of ice cream.

One of the earliest mass-producers of chocolate mints was Huyler’s in New York. Their chain of stores spread across the country. 

Today we find mint chocolate in everything from ice cream to brownies, cookies and candies, liquors and sauces. Girl Scouts first sold Thin Mint cookies in 1953 and are still their most popular cookie. Mint chocolate is also the name of an herb with edible leaves that tastes like chocolate and mint.

HOW TO OBSERVE CHOCOLATE MINT DAY

• Eat some chocolate mint.
• Make something using chocolate and mint.
• If you need a recipe, try this one:

Mint Frosting for Chocolate Cake

1 package cream cheese (8 0z), softened
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
3-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon mint extract
Green food coloring

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter on medium speed until light and fluffy. On low speed, beat in mint extract, 2 to 3 drops of green food coloring and 3-1/2 cups powdered sugar until mixed.  Beat on medium speed until fluffy. Store frosted cake in refrigerator.

Use #ChocolateMintDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE MINT DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this minty celebration. While we do, we’ll be sure to leave a chocolate mint on our pillow in the morning to inspire our search. 

Chocolate Mint FAQ

Q. What kind of mint is used in chocolate?
A. Spearmint is the most commonly used mint in chocolate recipes. However, peppermint is also used.

Q. What are other uses for mint?
A. Like chocolate, mint can also be made into a beverage. In this case, mint is steeped into a tea. It is known for its calming effect on upset stomachs. Mint can also be added to lotions or topical creams providing a cooling effect on the skin. It can be added to savory sauces.

Q. What other plants are in the mint family?
A. Mint is a part of the Lamiaceae family. Some plants included in the family are:

• rosemary
• lavender
• hyssop
• basil
• thyme
• catnip