Carpe Diem Day is celebrated each year on February 26. Most of us get caught in regretting or reminiscing and worrying or making plans for the future. Between all the worrying and planning, we forget that the only moment we have is the present — this moment, right now, is all there is! The phrase ‘carpe diem’ or ‘seize the day’ reminds us to celebrate every joy and opportunity that life has given us and live life to the best of our ability. It is the day to ponder upon the vulnerability of life while also feeling grateful for it.
History of Carpe Diem Day
The earliest known uses of the phrase ‘carpe diem’ in the English language dates back to the 19th century. However, the phrase became popular in 1938 when Robert Frost published his poem of the same name. The poem declares his desire for children to be “happy, happy, happy and seize the day of pleasure.” He was writing about how everyone, especially children, can live a happy life by simply seizing the day.
Carpe Diem Day was started by the friends and family of Yvette Francino after she lent her support and stood by her dear friend, Craig Dunham, through his diagnosis of ALS and subsequent death. As Francino was inspired by Dunham’s life to live each day to the fullest, even while battling a terminal illness, she began to inspire others to do the same. 2014 was a notable year for Francino when she raised more than $12,000 for twelve different ALS ice bucket challenges. Her enthusiasm drew attention to the cause of ALS research, as well as living life with joyful experiences and deep connections. This led to the creation of Carpe Diem Day.
In preparation for turning 60 years old, Francino spent the 60 weeks leading up to her birthday living out 60 different challenges that would help her to seize the day. Interestingly, the letters ‘C.D.’ do not only stand for carpe diem but also Dunham’s initials. This day honors his legacy and celebrates his life.
Carpe Diem Day timeline
Roman poet Horace uses the phrase to express that one should enjoy life while one still can.
The poem asks children to live every day to the fullest.
The movie popularizes the phrase.
The rock band releases a song of the same name.
Carpe Diem Day FAQs
What does ‘carpe diem’ literally mean?
Carpe diem, ‘pluck the day’ or ‘seize the day,’ was a phrase used by the Roman poet Horace to express the idea that one should enjoy life while one can.
What does seizing your moment mean?
To take full advantage of life’s opportunities whenever and wherever they present themselves; to live life to one’s full potential.
What is another way to say ‘seize the day?’
Another phrase for ‘seize the day is ‘carpe diem,’ which means to enjoy the present, as opposed to placing all hope in the future.
Carpe Diem Day Activities
Connect with your loved ones
Take the day to make amends with someone, practice positive affirmations, and do kind things for others. Do what you can to connect with your loved ones.
Take a few deep breaths
Concentrating on deep breathing exercises, such as inhaling and exhaling for just a few counts each. This will be a reminder that life is meant to be lived right now, in the present.
Make a bucket list
Make a bucket list of all the big and small things that you want to achieve — it can be something fun like learning a new language or even climbing Mt. Everest!
5 Facts About ALS That Will Blow Your Mind
It can affect people at any age
It most commonly strikes between the ages of 55 and 75.
There’s no clear cause for its development
90% of cases are considered sporadic.
ALS has no mental impact
Patients do not display any signs of mental deterioration.
It can also be hereditary
Up to 10% of the cases can arise due to genetic mutations.
Bulbar-onset ALS
Symptoms include speech or swallowing difficulties.
Why We Love Carpe Diem Day
It reminds us of the value of life
Carpe Diem Day reminds us to live in the present and enjoy what we have and where we are now.
We appreciate the small joys in life
On Carpe Diem we are encouraged to appreciate and cherish the small joys of life — something that we often forget to do.
It inspires us to do good for ourselves
Carpe Diem Day is also the time to think about all the dreams that you want to fulfill. This inspires us to live a more fruitful life
Carpe Diem Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 26 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | February 26 | Thursday |
| 2027 | February 26 | Friday |
| 2028 | February 26 | Saturday |
| 2029 | February 26 | Monday |
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