Three Silly Holidays Americans Are Celebrating on March 10

Sometimes the best holidays aren’t the ones marked in red on the calendar. They’re the fun, unexpected observances that give people an excuse to smile, share a laugh, or indulge in something simple. March 10 happens to be one of those days. Across the United States, people are celebrating everything from a legendary video game character to the simple joy of a midday nap—and even a delightfully specific pastry.

Here are three quirky holidays Americans are marking on Tuesday, March 10.

National Mario Day: A Celebration of Gaming’s Most Famous Plumber

Video game fans have a clever reason to celebrate on March 10. Written out, “Mar 10” closely resembles the name “Mario,” making it the perfect day to honor one of the most recognizable characters in gaming history.

Mario first appeared in Nintendo’s 1981 arcade classic Donkey Kong, though he was originally known as “Jumpman.” Since then, the mustached plumber in the red cap has become a cultural icon, starring in dozens of games including the wildly popular Super Mario Bros. series.

For many fans, Mario Day is a nostalgic trip back to childhood. Gamers celebrate by replaying classic Nintendo titles, sharing their favorite Mario memories online, or introducing the beloved character to a new generation of players. Some even dress in Mario-themed gear or host retro gaming nights with friends.

Nintendo itself has embraced the fan-driven holiday in recent years, often marking the day with game promotions, themed events, and announcements that delight longtime players.

National Napping Day: The Perfect Excuse for Extra Sleep

If you’re feeling a little groggy on March 10, there’s a holiday perfectly suited for you: National Napping Day.

Observed the Monday or Tuesday after the start of Daylight Saving Time, this unofficial holiday encourages people to take a short midday rest after losing an hour of sleep when clocks “spring forward.”

The concept was introduced in the late 1990s by Boston University professor William Anthony and his wife, Camille Anthony, as a lighthearted way to highlight the importance of sleep and rest in maintaining overall health.

Sleep experts say short naps—typically 20 to 30 minutes—can improve alertness, mood, and productivity without interfering with nighttime sleep. So whether it’s a quick power nap on the couch or simply taking a few quiet minutes to recharge, National Napping Day reminds Americans that sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest.

National Blueberry Popover Day: A Sweet Treat Worth Celebrating

Rounding out the day’s trio of quirky observances is National Blueberry Popover Day, a holiday dedicated to a pastry that’s both simple and surprisingly delicious.

Popover pastries are light, airy rolls made from a batter similar to Yorkshire pudding. When baked in a hot oven, the batter rises dramatically, creating a crisp exterior and a soft, hollow center.

Adding blueberries gives the classic pastry a burst of sweetness, making it a popular choice for breakfast or brunch. While popovers have been a staple in American kitchens for generations, the blueberry version offers a flavorful twist that’s perfect for celebrating this unusual food holiday.

Many home bakers use the day as an excuse to experiment in the kitchen, while bakeries and cafés sometimes highlight the pastry as a seasonal treat.

A Reminder That Fun Can Be Found in the Small Things

Not every holiday needs fireworks or parades to be meaningful. Sometimes, the best celebrations are the simple ones—a nostalgic video game, a well-timed nap, or a warm pastry fresh from the oven.

March 10’s quirky mix of observances shows how everyday joys can become reasons to celebrate. And if you’re looking for a way to mark the occasion, you could always combine all three: play a little Mario, enjoy a blueberry popover, and then take a well-earned nap.

Now that’s a holiday lineup worth putting on the calendar.