National Coloring Book Day

National Coloring Book Day is observed each year on August 2, a joyful occasion that invites people of all ages to enjoy coloring—whether in books, printable sheets, or digital formats.

History of National Coloring Book Day

National Coloring Book Day was first introduced by Dover Publications in May 2015 to celebrate coloring as a creative pastime across generations. Although the day itself is of recent origin, the roots of coloring books go much deeper. Line-drawing books intended for watercolour application date back to the early 17th century, often used as training tools for artistic technique. By the late 19th century, integrity in lithographic printing and children’s education popularized the modern children’s coloring book, with titles like The Little Folks’ Painting Book by the McLoughlin Brothers becoming widely enjoyed.

Throughout the 20th century, coloring books became a staple childhood activity in the United States and beyond, bolstered by the widespread introduction of crayons in the early 1900s. Adult coloring books emerged later—notably in the 1960s as satirical or political volumes—and then resurged in the 2010s as therapeutic tools under authors like Johanna Basford with Secret Garden.

Why is National Coloring Book Day important?

Coloring fosters creativity and presence by inviting us to participate in a simple yet expressive activity. It reminds us that play, regardless of age, can be both comforting and invigorating. The act of choosing colors, filling shapes, and staying within (or outside) lines provides a gentle space to unwind and ease mental tension without pressure or judgment.

It also promotes inclusivity and connection. Families, friends, and communities can gather to color, regardless of artistic skill. Whether you’re a child discovering shapes and hues, or an adult finding moments of mindfulness, the day celebrates coloring as a shared, accessible joy that spans generations.

• coloring offers a creative break from screens and stress
• accessible to everyone, no skill required, just enjoyment
• it bridges generations—kids and adults coloring together
• revives childhood memories with a modern therapeutic twist
• boosts focus and calms the mind through mindful repetition

Benefits of Coloring Books

Benefits of Coloring Books for Children:

• Enhances fine motor skills through precise hand movements
• Supports hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness
• Helps with focus and attention span as they concentrate on staying within lines
• Encourages creativity and self-expression in a non-verbal form
• Introduces early color recognition and basic planning skills
• Provides a calming, structured activity that can reduce anxiety
• Can improve self-esteem as children complete their artwork

Benefits of Coloring Books for Adults:

• Reduces stress and promotes relaxation through repetitive motion
• Encourages creativity, even for those who don’t consider themselves “artistic”
• Engages the brain in a meditative, mindful state similar to yoga or breathing exercises
• Offers a structured outlet to manage emotional overwhelm or burnout
• Helps disconnect from screens and overstimulation
• Boosts concentration and encourages patience
• Can support emotional processing and mental clarity through quiet reflection

Coloring is a gentle yet powerful mental exercise—it stimulates areas of the brain related to motor skills, creativity, and emotional regulation. It’s a simple but therapeutic tool for all ages.

How to Celebrate National Coloring Book Day

You don’t need much to observe this day—just a coloring book or printable pages and some coloring tools. Sit down with crayons, colored pencils, markers or even watercolors and pick a page that speaks to you. Whether it’s a whimsical cartoon, intricate mandala, or nature scene, let yourself enjoy the tactile, imaginative experience without expectation.

If you’re in company, turn it into a casual coloring party: lay out supplies, invite friends or family, and color together while sharing stories or having a cozy chat. You might also color in a garden or park, letting nature inspire your palette. Afterwards, consider snapping a photo of your finished piece and sharing it online with the hashtag #NationalColoringBookDay—it’s a fun way to connect and perhaps brighten someone else’s feed.

• pull out a coloring book or printable and let yourself relax with crayons
• invite someone over and color together in a casual, cozy setting
• bring coloring outdoors and soak up inspiration from nature
• try a new style—mandala, animals, or abstract—just experiment
• share your art online with #NationalColoringBookDay to spread joy

We offer you a ready-to-print coloring page for relaxation and a better mood!

Download the coloring page here

National Coloring Book Day Dates Table