National Brothers and Sisters Day - May 2, 2024

Today is dedicated to the people who (we hope) made your childhood memorable — your siblings. They’ve been there for you during the good times. And they haven’t left your side through the bad (even if they created it by getting you in trouble). Of course, there were probably times where you couldn’t stand the sight of each other. What siblings don’t get into fights? Still, National Brothers and Sisters Day is the day to reflect on the best times this May 2.

We all agree about the importance of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. But brothers and sisters know you like no one else ever will.

History of National Brothers and Sisters Day

Life is short, and it’s easy to get caught up on the little things that may come your way. National Brothers and Sisters Day was created after an unknown woman lost her brother and realized how she never let him know how much he meant to her. Two years after his death, she decided to create a holiday that was all about siblings connecting, reconnecting, and appreciating each other so that others didn’t miss out on what she did: a close relationship with her brother. And thus, National Brothers and Sisters Day was born.

It is meant to be a holiday that is strictly celebrated from the heart where brothers and sisters really take the time to value and cherish each other and the memories they share and to (of course) create new ones. Not to be confused with National Siblings Day, this holiday was created to specifically recognize the bond that only brothers and sisters can have.

So whether you and your brother or sister haven’t spoken in days, months or years, it’s a time to reflect and strengthen bonds. Call your sibling and talk for 10 minutes or go see a movie together. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate this holiday, all you have to do appreciate and continue to grow with your brother or sister.

Brothers and sisters for a lot of people are each other’s first best friends, first sparring partners, and one of their most valued protectors. Each year the holiday is celebrated at the beginning of May — the middle of spring, a time for blooming. It’s the perfect time of the year to water and nurture your relationship no matter how weak or strong it may be.

National Brothers and Sisters Day timeline

January 13, 2015

Schitt's Creek

The first episode of "Schitt's Creek" aired on CBC Television, featuring not only tv brother and sister David and Alexis, but also real life brother and sister, Daniel and Sarah Levy.

September 24, 2006

Brothers & Sisters

Television comedy "Brothers & Sisters" makes its premier debut on ABC.

April 6, 2004

My Sister's Keeper

Jodi Picoult's famous novel, "My Sister's Keeper" was published, telling the story of a brother and sister trying to support their older sister who is slowly dying from leukemia.

December 3, 1993

A Dangerous Woman

Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal both appeared in their father's film, "A Dangerous Woman."

National Brothers and Sisters Day FAQs

Is this only a US Holiday?

Absolutely not! In fact, this holiday is observed in several countries including France, Portugal and Spain. The holiday may fall on a different calendar day than the one observed in the United States, but the celebration of love and creating bonds with your brother or sister is all the same.

Can you be an only child and celebrate National Brothers and Sisters Day?

Yes, of course. Brothers and sisters don’t always come biologically, they can come in the form of a friend or cousin. You can participate by spending time and making memories with the brother or sister figure in your life. You can even celebrate the day by honoring your favorite brother sister duo.

What's the difference between National Brothers and Sisters Day and Siblings Day?

We get this question a lot. While both days were born out of traumatic events and are meant to appreciate your siblings, there is a slight difference between the two. This day is specifically for brothers and sisters, so if you grew up with just sisters or just brothers… sorry but you can skip this one!

5 Little Known Facts About Brothers And Sisters

Siblings, how many of us have them?

89% of Americans have a brother or sister

Would you rather?

35% of Americans would rather be the older sibling

Besties for life

10% of Americans say they are best friends with their brother/sister

Not so brotherly/sisterly love

8% of Americans say that they have physically fought their siblings, drawing blood or leaving marks

Birds of a feather

5% of Americans regularly hang out with their brother(s)/sister(s) and share the same friend group

National Brothers and Sisters Day Activities

Call each other

What better way to let someone know that you're thinking of them than to take time out and call them? Whether it's FaceTime, or a good old fashion phone call, the gesture goes a long way especially when texting is the norm. So call up your brother or sister anytime of the day and reminisce, we guarantee they will appreciate it.

Spend some quality time together

Plan to spend time with your brother or sister doing all your favorite hobbies together. Catch a movie, visit your favorite restaurant or your childhood home. Whatever you chose to do, just be present with one another.

Give each other a shoutout

Show your brother or sister some love online by shouting them out on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. It may be less personal for some but it means a lot to most to see beloved pictures along with a sentimental caption.

Why We Love National Brothers and Sisters Day

It's not Commercial

This day may not be as well known as others but there are so many positives to not being a commercial holiday. It keeps the day heartfelt and there is no right or wrong way to celebrate your brother or sister. It is truly all love.

It's FUN!

Sharing inside jokes, reflecting on childhood adventures and simply catching up is always fun especially with your siblings. You literally go with the flow on this day with your brother or sister. You might even go on a new adventure that you can look back on for the next National Brothers and Sisters Day.

It's a day to Rebuild

We understand that not everyone is close with their sibling and that's another reason why we love this holiday. You don't have to be best friends with each other to celebrate this day, but you can use it as a stepping stone to repairing relationships and we think that's pretty amazing.

Also on Thu May 2, 2024...

National Brothers and Sisters Day - Thursday, May 2, 2024