National Carnation Day is observed on January 29 each year, the birthday of William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States. McKinley often wore a red carnation in his lapel as a good-luck charm. Carnations are one of the world's most popular cut flowers, known for their ruffled petals, spicy scent and long vase life. They come in many colors, each with its own traditional meaning.
History of National Carnation Day
Carnations, known by the scientific name Dianthus caryophyllus, have been cultivated for more than 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks and Romans used them in garlands, and the genus name Dianthus is often translated as 'flower of the gods'.
William McKinley was born on January 29, 1843, in Niles, Ohio. A tradition says he began wearing red carnations after a friend gave him one during a political campaign and he won. He often gave carnations to visitors. According to a well-known story, on September 6, 1901, McKinley gave the carnation from his lapel to a young girl shortly before he was shot at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. He died eight days later.
In 1904, Ohio named the scarlet carnation its state flower in McKinley's honor. Carnations later became linked to Mother's Day, when Anna Jarvis promoted white carnations to honor mothers. Today, Colombia is one of the world's largest growers of carnations.
Why National Carnation Day Matters
Carnations are affordable, long-lasting flowers, often staying fresh in a vase for two weeks or more.
They carry meaning in many traditions, from Mother's Day to weddings and memorials.
The day also offers a chance to learn about President McKinley and Ohio history, and to brighten midwinter with fresh flowers.
How to Celebrate National Carnation Day
- Buy carnations: brighten your home or desk.
- Give a flower: share carnations with a friend.
- Learn color meanings: red for admiration, pink for gratitude, white for purity.
- Try a craft: dye white carnations with food coloring.
- Learn history: read about President McKinley.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, place carnations in common areas or give them to colleagues as a thank-you. In classrooms, students can place white carnations in colored water to watch the petals change color, a lesson in how plants move water. At home, families can arrange carnations, learn about flower meanings or press flowers for crafts. Trim stems at an angle and change the water every few days.
Fun Facts About National Carnation Day
- William McKinley was born on January 29, 1843.
- The scarlet carnation became Ohio's state flower in 1904.
- Carnations can last two weeks or more in a vase.
National Carnation Day FAQs
When is National Carnation Day?
National Carnation Day is observed on January 29 each year.
Why is Carnation Day on January 29?
It's the birthday of President William McKinley, who wore a red carnation for luck.
What is Ohio's state flower?
The scarlet carnation, adopted in 1904 in honor of McKinley.
What do carnation colors mean?
Traditionally, red means admiration, pink gratitude and white purity or remembrance.
How long do carnations last?
Often two weeks or more with fresh water and trimmed stems.
Are carnations linked to Mother's Day?
Yes. Anna Jarvis promoted white carnations to honor mothers.