National Fossil Day was established to promote the scientific and educational values of fossils. This nationwide celebration was first held on October 13, 2010, during Earth Science Week. The National Park Service and over 130 partners, including museums, institutions, organizations and other groups, joined together to celebrate fossils. Hundreds of activities were hosted across the United States allowing the public to better understand the world's fossil heritage.[1]
National Fossil Day 2011 was observed on October 12, 2011 with events at museums, parks, universities, and non-profit organizations.[2]