National Tile Day

National Tile Day is observed annually on February 23. In The day recognizes the versatility, durability, and aesthetic importance of tile in both residential and commercial spaces. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the craftsmanship of installers and the innovation of manufacturers who transform raw materials into functional art. By highlighting the sustainability and hygiene benefits of ceramic and stone surfaces, the holiday encourages homeowners and designers to explore new possibilities for creative expression in their building projects.

History of National Tile Day

National Tile Day was founded in 2017 by Coverings, the largest international tile and stone exhibition in North America. The organization established the holiday to draw attention to the benefits of tile as a building material and to celebrate its timeless role in global architecture. The Registrar at National Day Calendar officially declared the day to be observed annually on February 23. This date was chosen to generate excitement within the design community ahead of major spring industry events, providing a platform to unveil the year’s top tile trends and technological advancements.

While the official holiday is a modern creation, the use of tile spans thousands of years of human history. Evidence of decorative glazed brick tiles has been found in the ruins of ancient Egypt dating back to 4,000 BCE, and the famous Ishtar Gate of Babylon featured intricate tile work in 575 BCE. During the Industrial Revolution, the invention of dust-pressing allowed for the mass production of tiles, making them accessible to the general public rather than just the elite. Today, the industry continues to evolve with digital inkjet printing and thin-gauged porcelain panels, blending these ancient traditions with 21st-century performance.

Why is National Tile Day important?

This day is significant because it highlights tile as one of the most sustainable and healthy flooring options available. Unlike many synthetic materials, ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from natural raw materials and do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to better indoor air quality. The holiday emphasizes the technical performance of these surfaces, which are resistant to fire, scratches, and moisture, making them essential for high-traffic areas like hospitals, airports, and commercial kitchens where hygiene and durability are paramount.

The observance also celebrates the artistry and skilled labor required for quality installations. Proper tile work is a precise trade that requires an understanding of geometry, chemistry, and structural integrity. By bringing visibility to the industry, the day encourages a new generation to pursue careers in the trades and promotes the use of qualified labor. It also serves as a major trend-setting moment, where the design world looks toward new textures, colors, and large-format slabs that define the look of modern interiors.

• Tile has the lowest carbon footprint of any flooring choice over its entire life cycle.
• Naturally inhospitable to mold and bacteria, it is an ideal choice for allergy sufferers.
• The material is energy-efficient due to its thermal mass, which helps regulate room temperature.
• Modern manufacturing techniques allow tile to realistically mimic wood, fabric, and rare marble.
• It is a permanent finish that adds long-term value to a property compared to temporary coverings.

How to Celebrate National Tile Day

The most common way to observe this day is by seeking design inspiration for future home or office renovations. Many people spend time browsing digital galleries on Instagram or Pinterest using the holiday’s hashtag to discover the latest trends, such as playful geometric shapes, moody stone looks, or “biophilic” designs that bring nature indoors. If you are currently in a space with notable tile work, take a moment to examine the layout and grouting to appreciate the technical skill involved in the installation.

For those in the architecture and design community, the day is often marked by attending virtual seminars or “top trend” reveals hosted by industry leaders. You can celebrate at home by visiting a local tile showroom to feel the textures of different materials or by cleaning and sealing your existing tile surfaces to prolong their life and luster. Sharing photos of your favorite tiled spaces—whether it is a historic mosaic in a city subway or your own bathroom remodel—helps raise awareness about the material’s beauty and its enduring place in our daily lives.

• Share an image of a beautiful tile installation on social media using #NationalTileDay.
• Research the latest “Top Ten Tile Trends” to find inspiration for your next project.
• Visit a local stone or tile showroom to see new large-format porcelain slabs.
• Clean and maintain the grout lines in your home to refresh your current surfaces.
• Learn about the history of famous tiled landmarks like the Alhambra or the New York Subway.

National Tile Day Dates Table