National Good Neighbor Day

Celebrated on 09/28/2026

Quick Fact

National Good Neighbor Day was created by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, in the 1970s. It was officially recognized by the U.S. Congress in 1978 and signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, who proclaimed it to be celebrated on the fourth Sunday in September.

Origins and Establishment of National Good Neighbor Day

National Good Neighbor Day was founded by Becky Mattson, a resident of Lakeside, Montana, in the early 1970s. Mattson believed that fostering neighborly connections could strengthen communities and reduce social isolation. She campaigned for a national day of recognition, and her efforts gained traction. In 1978, the U.S. Congress passed a joint resolution, and President Jimmy Carter signed it into law, proclaiming September 24, 1978, as National Good Neighbor Day. Carter's proclamation urged Americans to celebrate by reaching out to neighbors and building community bonds.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, the holiday has evolved from a single observance to an annual event, typically celebrated on the fourth Sunday in September. While not a federal holiday, it has been embraced by community organizations, schools, and local governments. Modern celebrations include block parties, potlucks, neighborhood clean-ups, and random acts of kindness. Social media has amplified the day, with hashtags like #GoodNeighborDay encouraging people to share stories of neighborly generosity. Some cities issue proclamations to promote the day, and nonprofits use it to launch community-building initiatives.

Facts & General Observations

• A 2018 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 57% of Americans know only some of their neighbors, while 26% know most or all of them.
• Studies show that strong neighborhood ties can reduce crime rates by up to 50% in some communities.
• The National Good Neighbor Day website reports that over 10,000 community events were registered in 2023 across the United States.

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