Take A Walk Outdoors Day – January 20, 2027

Take A Walk Outdoors Day
Categories:
Tags:
ActivitiesEnvironmentLifestyle
Where:
International
Date change rule:
Every January 20
Holiday emoji:
🚶‍♀️

Take A Walk Outdoors Day invites everyone to embrace the simple joy of a walk outside every January 20. Step away from screens and discover the myriad health benefits, from boosting Vitamin D to improving mental clarity. Lace up your shoes, find a local trail, or simply stroll around your neighborhood to reconnect with nature and yourself.

Want to sponsor Take A Walk Outdoors Day? Learn how

Expected Take A Walk Outdoors Day Deals

As a health and wellness observance, Take A Walk Outdoors Day inspires initiatives focused on active living rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the American Heart Association often promote walking challenges, while brands such as Fitbit and Garmin might offer discounts on fitness trackers to encourage participation. Outdoor retailers like REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods could feature sales on walking shoes, apparel, and hydration gear. Local parks and recreation departments may host guided nature walks or offer free entry. We encourage checking with health organizations for community events and local retailers for special promotions on January 20. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January 20 approaches.

Platform Guide for Take A Walk Outdoors Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #TakeAWalkOutdoorsDay. Share photos or short videos of your favorite walking trails, scenic views, or simply your refreshed post-walk glow.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #TakeAWalkOutdoorsDay. Create a community event for a group walk or share tips for staying motivated during winter walks.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #TakeAWalkOutdoorsDay. Tweet about the health benefits of walking, share your favorite walking tunes, or challenge friends to join you outdoors.

Social Media Tips for Take A Walk Outdoors Day

Individuals

Plan a new route in your neighborhood or visit a local park you haven't explored. Even a short 15-minute walk can significantly boost your mood and energy.

Creators

Film a "walk with me" video showcasing beautiful outdoor scenery, or create a tutorial on proper walking posture and injury prevention for your followers.

Brands

Partner with local health initiatives to sponsor a community walk, or launch a social media campaign encouraging customers to share their outdoor walking experiences.

Organizations & Brands for Take A Walk Outdoors Day

  1. Nike

    Founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, Nike is a global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. The brand's commitment to innovation supports walkers with comfortable, performance-enhancing shoes designed for various terrains.

  2. REI

    Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation, founded in 1938. As a co-op, it provides gear for camping, hiking, and walking, and advocates for outdoor access and environmental stewardship.

  3. Fitbit

    Founded in 2007, Fitbit is a leading brand in wearable technology, offering smartwatches and fitness trackers. Their devices help users monitor steps, heart rate, and activity levels, encouraging a more active lifestyle, including daily walks.

  4. American Heart Association

    Established in 1924, the American Heart Association is a national voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. They actively promote walking as a key component of cardiovascular health through initiatives like "America's Walking Club."

  5. National Park Service

    Created in 1916, the National Park Service manages all U.S. national parks, many national monuments, and other conservation and historical properties. They provide countless opportunities for outdoor walks, from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

  6. Hydro Flask

    Founded in 2009 in Bend, Oregon, Hydro Flask specializes in insulated stainless steel water bottles and food flasks. Their products are essential for staying hydrated during outdoor activities, making them a popular choice for walkers and hikers.

  7. Merrell

    Founded in 1981, Merrell is an American company that specializes in outdoor footwear and apparel. Known for its durable and comfortable hiking and walking shoes, Merrell supports adventurers and casual walkers in exploring the outdoors.

Take A Walk Outdoors Day Hero

John Muir

John Muir (1838–1914) was a Scottish-American naturalist, author, environmental philosopher, glaciologist, and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States. His extensive walks and writings, particularly about the Sierra Nevada, inspired the creation of national parks and the modern conservation movement. He co-founded the Sierra Club in 1892, dedicating his life to protecting natural spaces for all to enjoy.

History of Take A Walk Outdoors Day

There is no evidence of how this holiday started, but we assume it was established as a way of reminding people to stay active. This is especially applicable in the modern world driven by technology as it is. We tend to spend a major part of our day sitting in front of a monitor. The idea of walking is a significant part of human evolution as we separated ourselves from other animals by walking without our hands. 

The Romans came up with the concept of a mile by walking. In their estimation, a thousand military steps were equivalent to a mile. Through the ages, long-distance walking developed into a competitive sport as humans liked to exhibit their outstanding feats of achievement. In the latter half of the 19th century, this became a popular sport in America as well as Europe. Germany boasts of the oldest surviving walking club, Black Forest Wanderverein, which was set up in 1864. The first race walk in the U.S. took place in New York in 1911. Even before that, there is a record of race walks being an official sport in the London Olympics of 1908.

Today, we are familiar with various forms of walking such as race walking, speed walking, brisk walking, power walking, marathons, and so on. Walking has even become a mode of worship. For example, thousands of people marched to Camino de Santiago in 2015, inspired by the movie “The Way,” which portrays an American father walking along the same route in France in search of his estranged son’s body. Who knew walking could have such a glorious history?

If you have a daily ritual, like getting your morning coffee, reading a book, listening to music, or sipping wine, club it with a bit of walking. This way, you don’t have to find an extra slot in your busy schedule for a walk. Think about it.

Take A Walk Outdoors Day timeline

1861
First Major Walk by Weston

Known as the father of modern pedestrianism, Edward Payson Weston walks from Boston to Washington after losing a bet that Lincoln would lose the 1860 election.

1874
Daniel O’Leary Breaks Weston’s Record

Daniel O'Leary walks 503 miles in six days, breaking Weston’s record of 310 miles to become ‘Champion Pedestrian of the World.'

1970
First Charity Walk

First March of Dimes, one of the first charity walks, is held in Ohio, later becoming ubiquitous.

2004
First Globetrotter by Foot

Polly Letofsky becomes the first American woman to walk 14,000 miles around the world.

Take A Walk Outdoors Day FAQs

When is Take A Walk Outdoors Day?

In 2027, this invigorating day is observed on Thursday, January 20, providing a mid-week opportunity to prioritize outdoor activity and well-being.

What are the health benefits of walking outdoors?

Beyond physical health, outdoor walking enhances mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety, fostering creativity, and offering a chance to connect with nature. It’s a simple yet powerful way to improve overall health.

How many steps should I aim for daily?

The exact number of steps can vary based on individual fitness levels and goals. However, consistency is key; incorporating regular walking into your routine, even in shorter bursts, is more important than hitting a specific high number.

Is walking outdoors better than walking on a treadmill?

While treadmills offer convenience and controlled environments, outdoor walking stimulates more senses and can feel less monotonous, contributing to better mental engagement and adherence to a walking routine.

Take A Walk Outdoors Day Activities

  1. Help someone who can’t walk

    Plan a day out for someone who can’t walk. It could be your neighbor who can’t move without a wheelchair or your baby cousin who loves to stroll in their pram. We’re sure it'll light up their day... and yours.

  2. Check out an unusual site

    As this day celebrates our access to the outdoors, wouldn’t it be great to go for a stroll by the beach or a trek to the nearby hilltop? Find your place of choice and enjoy a fun journey on foot with your buddies.

  3. Spread the word

    Although most of us are aware of the benefits of walking, a lot of people might not know about Take A Walk Outdoors Day. Take out five minutes of your day to share the importance of this holiday with your folks. Make #TakeAWalkOutdoorsDay the next trending hashtag.

5 Interesting Facts About Walking Outdoors

  1. Oh, so popular!

    Despite the rise of various workout regimes and health practices, walking remains the most popular form of exercise in the U.S.

  2. Where to walk?

    Walking on a rough outdoor surface requires 50% more energy than walking on a paved street.

  3. Mood lifter

    Walking makes the blood flow to the brain which in turn improves your mood.

  4. Longest walk ever

    Jean Beliveau traveled to 64 countries by foot — 46,600 miles — which took him 11 years.

  5. M&M candy burn

    To burn off a plain M&M candy, you’ll have to walk the entire length of a football field.

Why We Love Take A Walk Outdoors Day

  1. Walking boosts the health

    Not all of us like to sweat out at the gym, but taking a stroll outside doesn’t call for much effort. Walking is great for maintaining a healthy body and mind, so let’s start today!

  2. A reason to explore the outdoors

    Every day is a good day to step out for a walk, but when it’s Take A Walk Outdoors Day, it adds to the excitement. Be it taking your doggo for an evening stroll, or planning a hike with friends, getting to be outdoors is always a fun idea!

  3. A great opportunity to be social

    Busy work schedules, the need for sleep after a long day, a tight budget; forget all the year-long excuses not to see friends and family, and snap up this perfect excuse to finally lure the whole team out. A walk outdoors is relaxing, stress-free, as interesting as you can make it, and costs nothing. Plus, it reminds you and your circle to stay active and maintain a balanced lifestyle. Win, win, win.

Take A Walk Outdoors Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 January 20 Wednesday
2028 January 20 Thursday
2029 January 20 Saturday
2030 January 20 Sunday
2031 January 20 Monday