Annual observance

Coloring Book Day

August 2 Learning / Reading Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

Coloring Book Day, celebrated annually on August 2nd, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to the simple, creative joy of coloring. It encourages people of all ages to rediscover the therapeutic and artistic benefits of filling in outlines with color, whether using crayons, markers, or colored pencils. The day promotes relaxation, stress relief, and a moment of mindful creativity, reminding everyone of the nostalgic pleasure and developmental advantages that coloring books offer.

Observed each year on August 2, Coloring Book Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Coloring Book Day on August 2 highlights the creative and therapeutic benefits of coloring, fostering relaxation and mindfulness across all ages. This day serves as a reminder of the developmental advantages of coloring books, which have been a staple in educational settings since the 1880s.

Origin and story

The first coloring books, initially called "painting books," appeared in the United States in the 1880s, primarily for educational purposes.

Adult coloring books experienced a significant boom in popularity around 2015, often marketed for stress relief and mindfulness.

Quick facts

  • DateAugust 2
  • TypeLearning / Reading
  • Great forBook clubs, Teachers, Students

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Ways to celebrate

  • Write a note or journal entry on why Coloring Book Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Coloring Book Day lands on August 2 — host a quick nod with Book clubs, Teachers and snap a photo.
  • Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
  • Share a favorite quote or fact with a friend or class.
  • Share one fast fact about Coloring Book Day: The first coloring books, initially called "painting books," appeared in the United States in the 1880s, primarily for educational purposes.

Fun facts

  • The first coloring books, initially called "painting books," appeared in the United States in the 1880s, primarily for educational purposes.
  • Adult coloring books experienced a significant boom in popularity around 2015, often marketed for stress relief and mindfulness.
  • Coloring is known to improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and focus in children, while also offering a meditative escape for adults.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is Coloring Book Day?
It is observed on August 2 each year.
What is Coloring Book Day?
Coloring Book Day, celebrated annually on August 2nd, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to the simple, creative joy of coloring. It encourages people of all ages to rediscover the therapeutic and artistic benefits of filling in outlines with color, whether using crayons, markers, or colored pencils. The day promotes relaxation, stress relief, and a moment of mindful creativity, reminding everyone of the nostalgic pleasure and developmental advantages that coloring books offer.
How do people celebrate Coloring Book Day?
Write a note or journal entry on why Coloring Book Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.

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