National Fossil Day

National Fossil Day is celebrated annually in the United States on the Wednesday of the second full week in October. It’s a day devoted to recognizing the scientific, educational, and cultural importance of fossils—and to promoting their preservation and the study of paleontology.

History of National Fossil Day

National Fossil Day was established in 2010 by the U.S. National Park Service, through a partnership involving the American Geosciences Institute and dozens of other organizations, with the goal of increasing public awareness of fossils, paleontology, and the heritage of Earth’s deep past. The first observance took place during Earth Science Week and included events, exhibits, and outreach efforts across the country. ¹

Every year, a new poster and theme are selected to highlight different aspects of fossil science, and the National Park Service curates resources, events, and educational programs. Over time, the celebration has grown in reach, with museums, parks, universities, and amateur fossil groups across the United States participating in events.

Why is National Fossil Day important?

Fossils are more than curiosities or museum displays—they are windows into life forms, ecosystems, and climates from long before humans existed. They help scientists reconstruct how species evolved, how continents shifted, how climates changed, and how life has responded to those changes. By celebrating National Fossil Day, we invite more people to understand and appreciate that deep history, which underpins our present world and informs our future.

Another crucial aspect is stewardship. Fossils, once exposed, are vulnerable to damage or collection without regard for scientific context. This day reminds us that fossils are nonrenewable heritage resources: once disturbed, contextual information may be lost forever. National Fossil Day encourages responsible collection, preservation, and public education, promoting respect for paleontological resources and the lands in which they’re found.

• It highlights the value of fossils in reconstructing Earth’s history
• It supports the education of youth and the public about paleontology
• It raises awareness of stewardship, conservation, and ethical collecting
• It underscores the nonrenewable nature and fragility of fossil resources
• It builds partnerships among museums, parks, schools, and local groups

How to Observe National Fossil Day

If you’re near a natural history museum, science center, or national park, check whether they host special fossil‑themed events—guided tours, fossil casts, hands‑on exhibits, talks, or lab demonstrations. Many institutions open access to paleontology collections or run temporary displays to mark the day.

If organized events aren’t accessible in your area, you can explore fossils in other ways: take a field trip to a rock outcrop (where permitted), research local fossil sites, download or print fossil coloring pages and educational materials, or start a small fossil collection or identification project. Share photos, stories, or your own fossil discoveries on social media using #NationalFossilDay to help spread interest.

• Visit a museum or science center with fossil exhibits
• Go on a supervised fossil hunt where allowed
• Attend a fossil talk, workshop, or lab demonstration
• Share your fossil interest or finds with others online
• Start a local fossil‑identification project or journal

National Fossil Day Dates Table

1. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday/index.htm[↩]