National Get Outdoors Day

Young adults hiking in nature, wearing colorful outdoor gear, surrounded by vibrant trees and sunlight.. — National get outdoors day illustration

Sit tight, buckle up and get ready for an adventure (at least from the comfort of your home)! As we delve into the wonderful, wild and wacky world of National Get Outdoors Day. It’s a day that makes getting mud between your toes trendy and tossing frisbees the new Hollywood red carpet event!

When is Get Outdoors Day?

It's national get outdoors day on the 13th June.

A brief history of National Get Outdoors Day

This holiday has evolved from its creation in 2008 by the American Recreation Coalition and the US Forest Service, a glowing example of an office team-building exercise gone rogue! The aim was to encourage healthier, more active outdoor lives - footballs and jump ropes replaced keyboards and calculators. The impressive online mentions reaching a peak in 2015, proves that getting your knees green is striking a chord with people.

Why everyone loves National Get Outdoors Day

Simply put, it’s incredible fun! This day is about catching that frisbee, jumping into that river and climbing that tree. It’s ‘rememberance’ of those carefree days of youth, only now with added ‘awareness’ of just how wonderful it feels. And who doesn’t love a day dedicated to 'fun' outdoors? No Netflix, no email notifications, just good ol’ Mother Nature.

How to celebrate National Get Outdoors Day

First things first, invite all your ‘loved ones’. Next, pack a delicious picnic (‘food’ is always a good idea). Take out your favorite ‘sports’ equipment, whether it's a softball bat or a paddle board. Get out there and get active. But remember, it’s not a homework assignment. Whether it’s just a gentle walk in the park or a game of football, doing something you enjoy is what matters.

History behind the term 'Get Outdoors'

1920

The Rise of Outdoor Recreation

In the 1920s, there was a significant shift towards outdoor recreation as people began to embrace nature and the health benefits it offered. With the advent of motor vehicles and improved transportation infrastructure, more and more individuals were able to explore the great outdoors.

1938

National Parks and Public Lands

In 1938, the United States established the National Park System, preserving and protecting exceptional natural areas for public use and enjoyment. This move played a crucial role in promoting outdoor activities and encouraging people to explore and appreciate the beauty of these protected places.

1960

Environmental Awareness Movement

During the 1960s, there was a growing environmental awareness movement, fueled by concerns over pollution and the damaging effects of industrialization. This movement emphasized the need to reconnect with nature and actively promote outdoor activities for conservation, education, and personal well-being.

1970

The First Earth Day

In 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated, marking a turning point in the global recognition of environmental issues. Earth Day helped raise awareness about the importance of taking care of our planet and encouraged people to take action, including spending more time outdoors to appreciate nature.

1990

The Growth of Outdoor Recreation Industry

By the 1990s, outdoor recreation had become increasingly popular, leading to significant growth in the outdoor industry. People began to embrace outdoor activities as a way to escape the stresses of modern life and reconnect with nature. This trend fostered the development of various outdoor sports, adventure tourism, and outdoor gear and clothing.

2008

Increasing Awareness of Nature Deficit Disorder

In 2008, the term 'Nature Deficit Disorder' was introduced by Richard Louv in his book 'Last Child in the Woods.' This concept highlighted the negative impacts of the lack of outdoor experiences on children's physical and mental health. It served as a wake-up call for parents, educators, and communities to prioritize outdoor activities for children's overall well-being.

2020

Embracing the Outdoors during the COVID-19 Pandemic

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced people worldwide to stay indoors and practice social distancing. As a result, the importance of outdoor activities and spending time in nature became even more apparent. People sought solace and respite in outdoor spaces, leading to a renewed appreciation for the natural world and the term 'get outdoors' gained prominence as a reminder to prioritize outdoor experiences for health and well-being.

Did you know?

Did you know that humans being in green, natural environments can help reduce stress levels and increase an overall feeling of well-being? So you're not just swapping indoor comfort for a bug bite, it's all for your mental health!