Observed every year on the 22nd of September, National Centenarian’s Day is a holiday that’s honors and celebrates the lives of people who have reached the magical 100-year mark. Of course, this holiday was conceived to be more than just a day to slap a 100-year old person on the back and congratulate them for not dying.

It was also conceived as a day on which people are encouraged to contact the centenarians in their life to glean all of their wisdom and sense of history. We can learn a lot from our seniors if we’re only wise enough to ask them about their lives.

Some Amazing Facts About Centenarians

Sometimes we come across a subject that we don’t know a lot about, and sadly, this is one of those times. We just didn’t know a lot about people who have reached the 100-year mark, so we had to do a lot of research for this holiday article. Below are the amazing facts that we learned about centenarians—facts that underline why we feel it’s important to celebrate National Centenarian’s Day.

• In 2021, there were 97,000 centenarians living in the United States.
• By 2050, it’s estimated that there will be 300,000 centenarians living in the U.S.
• According to the latest research, genes only account for 10% of a person’s chances of reaching 100.
• Lifestyle choices and common sense also play a big role in reaching the age of 100-years.

The History Of National Centenarian’s Day

This holiday has been celebrated for quite a few years and while there are a few competing origin stories of where it actually started, many people will agree that it began at Williamsport Nursing Home in Williamsport Maryland. It was celebrated as a day on which people are encouraged to learn from the ever-growing population of centenarians in the United States and to celebrate their amazing lives.

Observing National Centenarian’s Day

This holiday can be observed by visiting someone who has obtained 100-years of age or older and spending some time with them.

Centenarians have a wealth of information on history and culture—all just waiting to be tapped by someone talking to them. While celebrating this holiday, people should be sure to use the hashtag #NationalCentenariansDay on social media.