National I Love My Feet Day

National I Love My Feet Day is celebrated every year on August 17, inviting everyone to appreciate their hardworking feet and give them the care they deserve.

History of National I Love My Feet Day

This modern observance was created in 2015 by Carolyn D. Jenkins to nudge people to value their feet—not only for movement and balance, but as a key to overall health—and to promote simple, consistent foot care habits. The first celebration took place the same year and has continued annually on the same date.

From there, the day found a home on popular holiday calendars and awareness sites, which helped spread the message beyond podiatry clinics and into everyday life. Listings highlight the fixed date, the origin story, and the idea of pairing gratitude with practical steps like proper footwear, basic hygiene, and regular checkups.

Why is National I Love My Feet Day important?

Feet are easy to overlook until they hurt. This day flips the script, reminding us that small daily choices—like wearing shoes that fit, drying between the toes, or stretching after a long day—add up to comfort, mobility, and confidence. It’s less about pampering and more about protecting the foundation that carries us everywhere.

There’s also a mental shift here. When we treat our feet with respect, we slow down a bit and notice how our bodies feel. That attention can prevent problems and make movement more enjoyable, from a morning walk to an evening dance in the kitchen. A calendar reminder makes it feel okay to start fresh with simple, doable care.

• It makes self-care feel practical, not fancy.
• It helps catch little issues before they grow.
• It encourages better shoe choices that actually fit.
• It turns an everyday routine into a small act of gratitude.
• It invites families to talk about body care without fuss.

How to Celebrate National I Love My Feet Day

Keep it simple and kind. Soak your feet in warm water, gently exfoliate, moisturize, and trim nails straight across. Check your socks and shoes: are they breathable, supportive, and not worn out at the heels? A quick audit can change how every step feels. If something has been nagging, make that podiatry appointment and write it on the calendar.

Movement counts, too. Take a relaxed neighborhood walk, try a few calf and arch stretches, or roll a ball under your foot while you watch a show. Swap one pair of tight shoes for a roomier option, and if you stand all day, add a brief “feet up” break to your routine. Little habits are the goal, not a one-day makeover.

• Treat yourself to an at-home soak and moisturizer.
• Do a quick stretch routine for calves and arches.
• Replace one pair of beat-up, ill-fitting shoes.
• Schedule a checkup if something keeps bothering you.
• Air out and rotate your footwear between uses.

National I Love My Feet Day Dates Table