National Washington Day - It's National Washington Day, which means it's time to explore. Learn more about the state of Washington's history and join in the celebration.

National Washington Day 2024 – May 10, 2024

National Washington Day takes place on May 10. Washington is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the U.S. The state was formed from the western part of the Washington Territory and was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. Washington boasts some jaw-dropping scenery and has played host to several significant events. The landscape is ripe with rainforests and volcanic mountains. It earned the nickname the ‘Evergreen State.’ Eye-catching views of the Pacific offer a thrilling whale-watching adventure, adding to its allure. Add to this a vibrant city life, and it is an amazing place to visit.

History of National Washington Day

National Washington Day, celebrated on May 10, recognizes Washington as the 18th-largest state, with a zone of 71,362 square miles, and the 13th-most populated city, with over 7.7 million inhabitants. A large percentage of Washington’s residents live in the Seattle metropolitan area. It serves as the state’s transportation, business, and industrial hub on Puget Sound, a Pacific Ocean inlet with numerous islands.Washington is one of the most prosperous and socially liberal states in the nation. Life expectancy and unemployment rates in the state are consistently among the highest in the country. Washington is a major lumber producer, with forests of Douglas fir, hemlock, pine trees, white pine, spruce, larch, and cedar covering its rugged terrain.The state is the major producer of apples, hops, pears, blueberries, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries in the United States. It also produces apricots, asparagus, dry edible peas, grapes, lentils, peppermint oil, and potatoes. Domesticated animals, types of meat, and commercial fishing, particularly salmon, halibut, and bottom fish, contribute significantly to the state’s economy. In terms of wine production, Washington is second only to California.The Olympic National Park contains several of the nicest, calmest areas in the United States. One Square Inch of Silence contributes to the preservation and, hopefully, expansion of Earth’s naturally silent spaces. There are more than 3,000 glaciers in the state and it is known for its storm watching in winter and beaches in summer. Without a doubt, Washington is a fantastic place to take in.

National Washington Day timeline

1608
Early Explorations

Exploration of the region start during this period, including that of Captain John Smith.

1775
The First European Landing

Don Bruno de Heceta is the first European to attempt landing on the Washington coast.

1792
The First American Sea Otter Pelts Trader

Robert Gray establishes a business to sell sea otter pelts.

1878
Washington's 1878 Constitution

Washington's voters elect 15 delegates to draft their constitution.

National Washington Day FAQs

Is Washington a good place to live?

Yes, without a doubt. Washington State is an amazing place to live. There are job opportunities, access to magnificent outdoor spaces, and also mild year-round temperatures.

What is Washington state's coldest month?

December is the coldest month. The cold season lasts from mid-November to early March.

What is the city of Washington famous for?

Washington is the leading producer of sweet cherries, apples, pears, and red raspberries in the country.

National Washington Day Activities

  1. Enjoy the city life

    Go to the best music venues. Bask in the full glow of evergreen brilliance by exploring Washington's history.

  2. Get the word out

    You can tell your family and friends about the history of Washington. To share on social media, use the hashtag #NationalWashingtonDay.

  3. Visit the mountains

    Washington is known for its views and recreational centers. You can go on hiking in the mountains and enjoy the views

5 Intriguing Facts About Washington

  1. Kennewick Man

    The 9,300-year-old skeletal remains of Kennewick Man, one of the oldest and most complete human remains found in North America, were discovered in Washington in the 1990s

  2. Earthquakes

    The area has been known to host megathrust earthquakes in the past.

  3. Named after a president

    Washington State remains the only state named after a president.

  4. Wine enthusiasts

    Washingtonians are infamous for their love of wine.

  5. The football team

    The Washington football team was not originally from Washington — it was first based in Boston.

Why We Love National Washington Day

  1. National commemoration

    Washington is well-known all across the country and is the seat of power. From its fashion and music to its political views, there is a lot on offer.

  2. Honoring Washington’s history

    This commemoration is an excellent opportunity to honor Washington's history. It follows its ascension to the status of a state in the United States.

  3. Tourist attractions

    Washington is the historical and cultural capital of the United States. It hosts numerous festivals and celebrations.

National Washington Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 May 10 Wednesday
2024 May 10 Friday
2025 May 10 Saturday
2026 May 10 Sunday
2027 May 10 Monday