National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day

National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day is celebrated annually on September 7. In 2026, this date falls on a Monday. This day honors the dedication of U.S. postal workers who deliver mail through all kinds of weather.

History of National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day

The day commemorates the opening of the New York City main post office on September 7, 1914. That building, now known as the James A. Farley Post Office Building, bears the inscription: "Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds." These words, adapted from the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, became the unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service.

Postal service in America has deep roots. Benjamin Franklin became the first Postmaster General in 1775. The first postage stamps appeared in 1847, free city delivery began in 1863, rural free delivery started in 1896, and airmail service launched in 1918. The ZIP code was introduced in 1963. Each innovation helped the postal system better serve the nation.

Why is National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day important?

This day recognizes the essential role postal workers play in connecting communities. They handle everything from letters to packages, often working long hours in challenging conditions. Their reliability keeps businesses running and families in touch.

It also highlights the history and resilience of the U.S. Postal Service. The unofficial motto reminds us of the commitment these workers make every day. Celebrating this day fosters appreciation for a service that touches nearly every American.

• Postal workers deliver to over 160 million addresses nationwide.
• The USPS processes and delivers billions of pieces of mail each year.
• Many postal employees go above and beyond, especially during holidays or emergencies.
• The day encourages simple gestures of thanks, like leaving a note or small gift.
• It also raises awareness of the postal service's long-standing tradition of public service.

How to Celebrate National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day

Show gratitude to your mail carrier with a thank-you note or a small treat. If you see them on their route, a friendly wave or word of appreciation can brighten their day. Consider leaving a gift in your mailbox, such as a gift card or snacks, to acknowledge their hard work.

Learn more about postal history by visiting the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington, D.C., or exploring online photo galleries from the USPS. You can also read the book *Neither Snow Nor Rain* by Devin Leonard, which tells the story of the postal service. Watching the film *Miracle on 34th Street* is another fun way to celebrate, as it features the post office and Operation Santa.

• Leave a thank-you note or small gift for your mail carrier.
• Visit the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in person or online.
• Read about the history of the U.S. Postal Service on its website.
• Watch *Miracle on 34th Street* to see postal themes in action.
• Share your appreciation on social media using #NationalNeitherSnowNorRainDay.

National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day Dates