Every day is a great day to celebrate the outdoors, but September, for good reason, is a month of many celebrations – National Wildlife Day, Public Lands Day, and National Fishing & Hunting Day. Each day is a great occasion to get outside, whether you’re admiring the wildlife in your community, visiting nearby public lands, or throwing out a line to catch “the big one.”

National Wildlife Day, September 4

National Wildlife Day (not to be confused with the UN’s World Wildlife Day, observed in March) was founded in 2005 by animal behaviorist and philanthropist Colleen Paige. Paige’s goal was to bring awareness of endangered animals and to celebrate the many zoos and outstanding animal sanctuaries around the world for helping preserve these animals and educate the public about conservation.

Public Lands Day, September 25

Public Lands Day – organized annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation, in cooperation with Department of the Interior, Department of the Army, and Department of Agriculture – is observed on the fourth Saturday of September each year. It was established in 1994 and is traditionally the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort. It celebrates the connection between people and green space in their community, inspires environmental stewardship, and encourages use of open space for education, recreation, and health benefits.

National Fish & Hunting Day, September 25

National Hunting and Fishing Day, launched by Congress in 1971, brings together sportsmen and women to celebrate the rich tradition of hunting, target shooting and fishing with national, state, regional and local organizations hosting related events. NHF Day is just as much about recognizing hunters and anglers for their leadership in wildlife and conservation as it is about celebrating sportsmanship. Just like National Public Lands Day, NHF Day is observed and celebrated the fourth Saturday in September every year.