Squirrel Appreciation Day is an annual American event devoted to the over 200 species of squirrels. It occurs annually on January 21. It was designed as a fun way to appreciate squirrels' natural characteristics and recognize their contribution to nature and ecology; specifically squirrels' contribution to reforestation.
The first annual National Squirrel Appreciation Day was celebrated on January 21, 2002. It was created by Christy Hargrove, a wildlife rehabilitator, in Asheville, North Carolina. Squirrel Appreciation Day was recognized in Chase's Calendar of Events.