Pink is often associated with femininity, romance, and tenderness. It has also become the primary color for many brands, charities, and businesses.
So it’s no surprise that there’s a national day dedicated to the color pink!
On June 23, people from around the world get involved in initiatives to mark this day and shine a light on this beautiful color.
If you’re wondering how this day came into existence and why it is important, continue reading to learn more!
History of National Pink Day
National Pink Day is celebrated in a range of countries worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
However, nobody seems to be sure about where this national day originated. We don’t know who founded it or why June 23 was chosen as the day to celebrate all things pink.
The color pink itself dates back centuries. Some of the earliest uses of the color pink in art go back to the 13th and 14th centuries when it was associated with the body of Christ.
In some cases, artists depicted the Christ child swaddled in the color pink, too.
During the Renaissance, between the 14th and 17th centuries, artists used pink to paint faces and hands. The color resembled the flesh of many people being painted at this time.
In the 18th century, Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV of France, often wore pink. There is even a shade of pink called Rose Pompadour that was designed especially for her!
By the 19th century, boys in England had begun to wear pink decorations, such as ribbons. Adult men wore red uniforms, while pink, a lighter shade of the color red, was considered suitable for younger boys.
The color pink continued to enter mainstream society in the following decades. In 1931, Italian designer Elsa Schiaparelli created a shade called “shocking pink.”
Shades of fuchsia pink became popular with the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.
By the end of the 20th century, neon pink had also made its way into our lives. There were dozens of different shades by this point!
Over the years, many brands have been established that are associated with the color pink. For example, Barbie, Cosmopolitan, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation all use pink in their branding.
Pink has also become known as the main color in social campaigns, such as anti-bullying movements in Canada and New Zealand.
One example is Pink Shirt Day, which has been held every year since 2007 to raise awareness about bullying in schools.
How to celebrate National Pink Day
Plant some pink flowers.
Plant beautiful pink flowers like roses, peonies, or tulips if you have the right conditions.
When they grow, you will be reminded of the reason you planted them in the first place. National Pink Day is also a great excuse to buy yourself a gorgeous bunch of pink flowers!
Wear pink.
You might already have something pink in your wardrobe for National Pink Day.
When you go outside, see if you can spot anybody else wearing this bright color. You may be surprised just how many people get involved and celebrate this national day!
Dye your hair pink.
People who want to do something more radical for National Pink Day can consider dyeing their hair in this eye-catching color!
This is an excellent way to celebrate if you are attending events or parties. Whether you use temporary or permanent pink dye, it can certainly become a good conversation starter.
National Pink Day FAQ
Which charitable causes are associated with pink?
Breast cancer awareness is one of the most notable campaigns linked to the color pink. Some breast cancer charities encourage supporters to wear pink and host fundraising events.
What effect does the color pink have on people?
Pink has been used in some places to have a calming effect on people. For example, in the 1980s, prison wardens painted the cells pink. The aim was to reduce tensions by calming the prisoners.
Is National Pink Day the same as the International Day of Pink?
While they have similar names, these days are quite different. National Pink Day is celebrated on June 23, while International Day of Pink is marked during the second week of April. International Day of Pink is specifically focused on anti-LGBTQIA+ bullying.
5 Facts About Pink
There are more than 50 different shades of pink, so there is something for everyone in the world of pink!
Pink has only been considered a “girly color” since the 1940s. Before World War II, many parents dressed baby girls in blue.
Some polls have shown that only 14% of women would use pink for girls and blue for boys.
Pink has been used for names in popular culture. Mr. Pink in the movie Reservoir Dogs and the famous singer P!nk are well-known examples of this.
The LGBTQIA+ community has adopted pink as their main color for activism and awareness of gay rights.
Have you ever imagined there could be so many things to discover about the color pink?
It’s no wonder that this color has been given a day of its own for the world to celebrate.
Whether it’s your favorite color or one you avoid, there are plenty of things to talk about next National Pink Day!
