What is National DNA Day and why is it important?

National DNA Day commemorates the successful completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 and the discovery of DNA's double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. National DNA Day is officially celebrated on April 25th and began after the first session of the 108th Congress passed concurrent resolutions designating the day in 2003. This annual celebration offers students, teachers and the public many exciting opportunities to learn about the latest advances in genomic research and explore what they may mean for their lives.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), one of 27 institutes and centers that form the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is encouraging organizations to host events celebrating National DNA Day from January through May of each year.

How can I get involved?

If you or your organization want to participate in National DNA Day, there are two options for getting involved. Interested participants can either attend a local event near you, which can be found on our National DNA Day Events Map located on our Find Events page. The other option is to start your event. Download our DNA Day Starter Kit to get started!

What activities can I participate in or what kind of events can I hold?

We encourage you to reach out to local groups with events posted on our Find Events page. If you are unable to get in touch with a group, contact us at dnaday@nih.gov and we will assist with putting you in touch with the group. You can also plan an event by using our resources on our Get Activity Ideas page to celebrate on your own or as a group.

What is the National DNA Day Events Map?

The interactive map showcases all National DNA Day events registered by individuals or organizations nationwide. Once events are registered, host organizations become official National DNA Day Partners! This is a great platform for you to share your own event with others who are just as excited to celebrate National DNA Day. See events on the National DNA Day Events Map by visiting our Find Events page.

Do I need to register my event/activity celebrating National DNA Day?

Yes. The goal of the National DNA Day Events Map is to help organizations engage in local and national collaborations, and gain national recognition of their events. Register your event on the Events Map, which automatically makes your organization a National DNA Day Partner and enjoy official entry into the National DNA Day Network.

Once I've decided what to do, how do I get publicity for my event?

First, register your event so that we can include it on the Events Map and share on our social media pages. Secondly, share it with as many people as possible, not only publicizing your event, but also telling the world you are a National DNA Day Partner. Invite your friends and ask them to invite their friends. We have also included a sample press release and media advisory in our Starter Kit to help attract media attention to your event.

My event is not going to take place on April 25th, is that okay?

Absolutely! We completely understand the limitations groups have on time and resources. We consider "National DNA Day" to be anytime between February and April of each year.

How to have a genetics professional at your event:

NHGRI's National DNA Day partners, the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) and National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC), both have online databases available to reach out to genetics professionals interested in participating in education and outreach. Reach out to a genetics professional in your area:

How to use the National DNA Day logo for your event:

Check out our Starter Kit for logos, name tags, banners, letterheads and more, many of which can be personalized to include your organization and event's title!

Does the NHGRI provide funding to groups for hosting an event?

We do not provide funding for events.

What else can I do once National DNA Day ends?

Stay updated by following us on Twitter and liking us Facebook. Also sign up to receive email updates about National DNA Day events, learning tools and other announcements.