Whether they’re “real” holidays or manufactured just for fun, here are six unique days you can celebrate with your family in September.
American Chess Day: September 1
This is a perfect opportunity to introduce kids to the classic game of chess in a fun, interactive way. Look out for chess clubs or tournaments at local libraries and schools. Pick up an inexpensive chess set at a local store or download an app on a kid-friendly device and start playing! Many kids will catch on quickly!
National Wildlife Day: September 4
Take time to go outdoors and teach your kiddos about conservation and the natural world around us. Visit a local park like McCloud Nature Park in North Salem or Pecar Park in Avon, which both feature an educational center, to learn about native species and preservation efforts.
Grandparents Day: September 7
A day meant for meaningful family bonding—either by visiting grandparents in person (or virtually) or organizing activities if they can’t be together. Create handmade cards, share a heartwarming read-aloud of a favorite story, or enjoy a grandparent-favorite meal. If grandparents have passed away, use dinner time to share stories about family traditions and favorite memories.
Teddy Bear Day: September 9
Celebrate with a comforting blend of childhood charm and cozy fun. Take your kiddo (and their favorite teddy bear) to the library for story time, out for an after-school treat, or for a walk around one of our great Hendricks County parks.
Constitution Day: September 17
Constitution & Citizenship Day honors the document that was ratified in 1787 and serves as the basis for all U.S. laws. Visit one of our local libraries to read or check out books about the Constitution and our Founding Fathers. Teach your children about the Bill of Rights, and the three co-equal branches of government that the writers of the Constitution carefully designed.
Native American Day: September 26
The fourth Friday of September honors those for whom our country was home long before it was the United States of America. Check out books about or by Indigenous authors like Kevin Noble Maillard, Monique Gray Smith, and Carole Lindstrom and Michaela Goade. Research the original Tribal inhabitants of Central Indiana. Visit the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis to learn about American Indians and Western art!