Celebrated on 05/18/2026
National Visit Your Relatives Day, celebrated on December 26th, encourages families to reconnect during the holiday season. It was created by Modern Maturity magazine in 1993 as a way to combat post-Christmas blues by fostering family bonds.
National Visit Your Relatives Day was established in 1993 by Modern Maturity magazine, a publication of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). The day was conceived as a way to encourage people, especially younger generations, to visit older relatives during the holiday season. The date, December 26th, was chosen because it falls right after Christmas Day, a time when many people have time off and are still in a festive mood, but may be experiencing a lull in activities. The goal was to promote intergenerational connection and reduce loneliness among seniors.
Since its inception, National Visit Your Relatives Day has grown in popularity, with many families adopting it as a tradition. Initially promoted through AARP magazines and local community events, the holiday has gained traction through social media and word-of-mouth. Today, it is celebrated with family gatherings, home visits, and even virtual calls for those who cannot travel. Some communities organize intergenerational events, such as potlucks or storytelling sessions, to bring together different age groups. The day has also been embraced by nursing homes and assisted living facilities, which often host open houses for residents' families.
Explore more celebrations, trivia, and quests on National Day Quest.