February
National California Day
We celebrate National California Day on February 22. It is a day to commemorate the Golden State of the United States of America. California is one of the western states in the U.S. It is also the most populous state and the third-largest state by area. California has a rich history that witnessed native American life, European exploration, Spanish colonization, the Mexican era, the Gold Rush, and U.S. statehood. California is one of the most popular destinations, famous for monuments like the Golden Gate Bridge, places like Disneyland and Hollywood, and last but not least, for events like Coachella.
History of National California Day
California is a beauty, adorning the western part of the U.S. with shimmering beaches caressed by the Pacific Ocean’s deep blue waters to the west and Nevada’s deserts to the east. To the north, it is adorned with prairies, marshes, and wetlands bordering Oregon, and to the south, it meets the Mexican borders. This land is a geographical marvel, with beaches, forests, deserts, valleys, coastal mountains, and fertile agricultural areas. The history of this state unfolds in five major periods, beginning with the deep-rooted Native American presence about 10,000 years ago, ending with European explorations in the 1500s. Before European influence, California was home to approximately one-third of the Native American population. Spanish explorers were the ones who named California, and as time passed, settlements grew. Between 1769 and 1821, California was colonized by Spain, facing challenges such as a lack of agricultural organization, unstructured tribes, and difficulty in securing food supplies and domestic animals. California’s isolation added to these challenges. In 1821, with Mexico’s independence from Spain, California became part of the new nation. The subsequent decades saw the Mexican-American war, after which California became a U.S. state. The California statehood act was passed on September 9, 1850. Later, the Gold Rush attracted massive settlements, driven by dreams of gold and wealth. Over the years, California’s significance grew and continues to be important today.
National California Day Timeline
- 1542: Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo becomes the first European explorer to sail along California’s coast on September 28.
- 1769: Mission San Diego, the second Franciscan mission in The Californias, is established by Spanish friar Junípero Serra.
- 1839: John Sutter establishes a fort near Sacramento, marking the first non-native settlement in California.
- 1848: The Gold Rush draws about 80,000 people to California in search of wealth, boosting its population.
- 1887: Harvey Wilcox transforms Hollywood, laying out a real estate subdivision.
What is the climate like in California?
The climate varies across different areas but is generally warm and pleasant year-round, with freezing temperatures occurring rarely.
Why do many California cities have Spanish names?
The Spanish exploration and colonization led to a lasting cultural influence, with major cities retaining the Spanish names given by missionaries.
Who founded California?
In 1542, Spanish navigator Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo was the first European to sight the area known today as California.
National California Day Activities
- Visit Hollywood: Plan a road trip to Hollywood’s luxurious locations and scenic landscapes, famous for being the backdrop of countless films and events.
- Print the California map on a t-shirt: If visiting is not an option, wear a T-shirt with the California map on National California Day to keep the spirit alive.
- Hike in the Lassen Volcanic National Park: Explore the natural wonders formed by volcanic activity, marvel at boiling mud pits and lava rocks, and soak in the natural beauty.
5 Interesting Facts About California
- The Golden State: Known as ‘The Golden State,’ California is the 31st state in the U.S.
- Found it: The state motto, “Eureka!” translates to “I have found it.”
- The state bird: The California valley quail holds the title of the state bird.
- The majority of residents: As per an American community survey, 39% of the residents are Latino.
- The state flag: A grizzly bear is proudly displayed on the California state flag.
Why We Love National California Day
- We love nature: The serene and stunning vistas of Californian sunsets, along with its warm weather, draw numerous visitors.
- We love the landscape: California’s geographical diversity offers a wide range of experiences, making it a complete destination.
- Good food equals a good life: Known for its delicious cuisine, California provides fresh farm produce and seafood. Many restaurants have even made Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat list!
For more insights, visit FindNoMore.
What is the date of National California Day every year?
| Year of Event | Day | Day of the week | Take place |
| International -- Day 2024 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2024 | Thursday | 0 days |
| International -- Day 2025 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2025 | Saturday | 0 days |
| International -- Day 2026 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2026 | Sunday | 356 days |
| International -- Day 2027 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2027 | Monday | 721 days |
| International -- Day 2028 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2028 | Tuesday | 1086 days |
| International -- Day 2029 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2029 | Thursday | 1452 days |
| International -- Day 2030 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2030 | Friday | 1817 days |
| International -- Day 2031 | Day 22 Month 2 Year 2031 | Saturday | 2182 days |
