Celebrated on the first Sunday of August annually, National Sisters Day is a holiday where sisters can acknowledge the bonds of love and friendship between them and celebrate the unique relationship that exists only between them and their sister—or sisters, as the case may be.

While this holiday was initially established to acknowledge the relationship between biological sisters, over the years, more and more people are celebrating “sister-like” relationships that may exist with their friends or coworkers.

History of National Sisters Day

The history of National Sisters Day is currently unknown. It is interesting to note that in parts of India and Nepal, there is a very similar day known as Raksha Bandhan, which is celebrated in August as well. However, Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bonds between brothers and sisters, not just among sisters, and it isn’t celebrated on the first Sunday in August.

National Sisters Day Customs & Celebrations

Unfortunately, National Sisters Day is not recognized as a Federal or public holiday in the U.S. This means that mail delivery and bus schedules will remain unchanged, and no businesses or government agencies close on this day.

Different people celebrate National Sisters Day in various ways. Some plan a series of events that they can do with their sisters. Others send their sisters presents, cards, or flowers. Another way to celebrate the holiday is to make a post on social media about Sisters Day. Many sisters decide to have a girls’ night out, going out dancing or for dinner, using this holiday to strengthen the bonds between them and their sister.

Many sorority houses use the day to celebrate the special bonds that exist between sorority sisters. They often hold sister-themed events and other celebrations that remind them how important their sisters are to them.