National Forest Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Forest Day (2025) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Forest Day is celebrated on December 23rd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Forest Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you might want to know about National Forest Day.

📅 What day is National Forest Day 2025?

In 2025, National Forest Day is on Saturday, December 23rd. It is the 4th Saturday in December; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all fascinating details and facts about December 23, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Forest Day is a special day celebrated on December 23rd to honor the name “Forest” which is commonly used as both a first and last name in English-speaking countries. The name gained popularity through the renowned actor Forest Whitaker, who is not only a Hollywood veteran but also an advocate for children affected by violence as appointed by the UN Secretary-General’s office. The name “Forest” is a variation of a word used to describe someone who works in the woods and was often used as a surname for groundskeepers and wardens in England. In addition to Whitaker, there are several American politicians who also share the name Forest, such as Forest Hays Jr., Forest Hopkins, and Forest Harness.

📜 National Forest Day History

Forest Hays Jr., an American politician from Georgia, was a member of the House of Representatives for 16 years representing the Democratic Party. Sadly, he passed away in 1987. Hays was born in High Point, Georgia in 1928 and briefly served in the United States Navy before pursuing a career in radio and television. During his time in Congress, he served on various committees such as Defense and Veteran Affairs, State Institutions and Properties, and Game, Fish, and Recreation.

Forest Steven Whitaker, born on July 15, 1961, comes from a family with his father, Forest E. Whitaker Jr., working as an insurance salesman and his mother, Laura Francis, as a special education teacher. Whitaker gained recognition for his role as football player Charles Jefferson in the popular film “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.” This breakthrough performance opened doors for his future career. Since then, he has appeared in numerous films, including “The Last King of Scotland,” “The Butler,” and “Southpaw.”

✅ National Forest Day Facts

🔖 The hands-on approach
To get ready for his part in “The Last King of Scotland,” Forest Whitaker spent four months in Uganda.

🔖 The rise of a gifted lawyer
Forest Harness was widely regarded as the top prosecutor in Chicago during the height of his career.

🔖 The ones who’ll stay together forever
Forest Hays Jr., along with his wife, was laid to rest in Lookout Cemetery located in High Point, Georgia.

👍 Why Is National Forest Day Important

Forest is a name given to a very small number of individuals. In that way, it is exceptional.

There aren’t many names that work equally well for boys and girls. Fortunately, Forest checks both boxes.

Forest, like its French roots, is an earthy, rich name. It’s rooted in nature.

🙂 How To Observe National Forest Day

⚡ Learn about Forest Hayes Jr.
Hayes proved himself to be a skilled and seasoned politician who brought honor to his country.

⚡ Host a movie night
Forest Whitaker has been in almost 80 movies throughout his career as an actor spanning 41 years. So, when it’s time for your movie night, you’ll have a wide range of options to choose from!

⚡ Read about Forest Harness
During his impressive 43-year career, Harness achieved remarkable success in various roles. He excelled as a legislator, soldier, and leader, leaving behind a legacy of accomplishments.

📅 When is National Forest Day?

View all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Fun and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Forest Day. So be sure to check back soon.