National Stepfamily Day

Supriya Jain
Dec 22, 2023 By Supriya Jain
Originally Published on Feb 25, 2022
Fact-checked by Gowri Rao
National Stepfamily Day instills a sense of appreciation towards your mom and dad.

Where is National Stepfamily Day celebrated?

National Stepfamily Day is celebrated on September 16 every year in the United States. This day encourages blended families to accept each other with open hearts and lead happy lives together.

Who is National Stepfamily Day celebrated by?

With over 30% of the population living in a stepfamily setting, National Stepfamily Day is a day of celebration for all the blended families of the USA.

When did National Stepfamily Day first start?

National Stepfamily Day was first observed on September 16, 1997. 

Who started National Stepfamily Day?

A step-parent, Christy Tusing-Bergald, is credited with the inception of National Stepfamily Day, thereby giving blended families a reason to celebrate their lives together. This day is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the USA where families try and spend some quality time together.

History And Timeline

When there are special days for mothers, fathers, daughters, and siblings, we often fail to recognize and accept stepfamilies. We fail to accept that they are embraced by love and care for each other.

Once considered non-traditional, societies have now evolved to become more understanding. With divorce and remarriage becoming more common and acceptable, the notion of stepfamilies is also beginning to receive the recognition it deserves.

Latin Origin For 'Step'

The word 'step' has roots in the Latin word ‘steop’; used as a prefix.

8th BC

Patricia On Stepfamily

In 1993, Patricia L. Papernow drew up a study on the stages of development of stepfamilies. This created considerable awareness on this matter.

1993

An Interesting Idea Comes To The Fore

A step-parent, Christy Tusing-Borgeld, put forth the idea of instituting a day to celebrate stepfamilies, which began to be observed in 1997.

1996

Why Not A Day For Stepfamilies?

In 1997, a day was officially declared specifically for stepfamilies.

1997

More Efforts!

In 2006, the National Stepfamily Resource Center was developed and expanded by the Stepfamily Association of America.

2006

Traditions And Customs

This is a day to encourage communication, fight social stigma, and value the presence of everyone in stepfamilies. This day celebrates the bonding in stepfamilies, which is becoming the new norm. 

Ways To Observe National Stepfamily Day

The perfect way to celebrate this day would be by spending some quality time with your family members. Share experiences, cook a meal together, or watch a flick together. 

Fill a backpack with goodies and go out for a nice walk and have a picnic together with your dear ones. If you can’t have a long trip, travel somewhere nearby, enjoy outdoor sports, or dine out for lunch. This is going to be a memorable day. 

Take some time to appreciate your step-parents' efforts and love. We are all busy with our lives, and taking some moments to appreciate their presence and care would mean a lot to them. 

Facts And Stats

  • National Stepfamily Day is celebrated by blended families residing in the US who love the bond that family members share with each other.
  • National Stepfamily Day started in the year 1997 and since then it is celebrated every year across the US.
  • National Stepfamily Day is the time for families to be more accepting of each other and show their true feelings for each other.

Who started National Stepfamily Day?

National Stepfamily Day was introduced by a step-parent, Christy Tusing-Borgald.

How do people celebrate National Stepfamily Day?

Blended families organize dinners or excursions to commemorate National Stepfamily Day. Family members also try to spend more time together and bond on this special day.

Why do people celebrate National Stepfamily Day?

National Stepfamily Day is celebrated to value and appreciate the bonds in stepfamilies which were once looked down upon by society.

When is National Stepfamily Day?

National Stepfamily Day is on September 16 and is celebrated annually.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Wednesday, September 16, 2020
  • Thursday, September 16, 2021
  • Friday, September 16, 2022
  • Saturday, September 16, 2023
  • Monday, September 16, 2024

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Supriya Jain

Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

Supriya Jain picture

Supriya JainBachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

As a skilled member of the Kidadl team, Shruti brings extensive experience and expertise in professional content writing. With a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Punjab University and an MBA in Business Administration from IMT Nagpur, Shruti has worked in diverse roles such as sales intern, content writer, executive trainee, and business development consultant. Her exceptional writing skills cover a wide range of areas, including SOP, SEO, B2B/B2C, and academic content.

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Gowri Rao

Bachelor of Arts specializing in Economics

Gowri Rao picture

Gowri RaoBachelor of Arts specializing in Economics

With a bachelor's degree in Economics from Krea University, Gowri is a highly skilled data analyst and an expert in regression and causation modeling. Her interests in economic trends, finance, and investment research complement her professional expertise. In addition to her professional pursuits, Gowri enjoys swimming, running, and playing the drums, and she is also a talented tutor.

Read full bio >