Stay Inside the Lines or Don’t—It’s National Coloring Book Day on August 2!
Every August 2nd, we celebrate National Coloring Book Day, a joyful reminder that coloring isn’t just for kids—it’s for everyone who loves to relax, create, and express themselves. Whether you're a casual doodler, a mindfulness enthusiast, or a proud member of the adult coloring book craze, this day is your chance to sharpen those colored pencils and dive into a world of imagination.
6/29/20252 min read
📚 A Brief History of National Coloring Book Day
National Coloring Book Day was founded by Dover Publications in 2015 to celebrate the creativity and calming effects of coloring. Dover was a pioneer in the coloring book world. In fact, they published the very first adult coloring book—The Executive Coloring Book—all the way back in 1961.
The holiday was created not just to promote Dover’s expansive coloring book line, but also to encourage people of all ages to pause, unplug, and enjoy a little analog creativity in a digital world. Today, people across the globe mark the day with coloring parties, giveaways, and a simple return to childlike joy.
🖍️ Fun Facts About Coloring & Coloring Books
Coloring reduces stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that coloring, especially in patterns like mandalas, can lower heart rate and promote relaxation—similar to meditation.
Adult coloring books exploded in popularity in the mid-2010s, with titles like Secret Garden by Johanna Basford selling millions of copies.
The first coloring books date back to the 1880s. The McLoughlin Brothers published The Little Folks' Painting Book in 1879, one of the earliest examples designed for children.
Coloring boosts brain function. It stimulates areas of the brain related to motor skills, the senses, and creativity.
It’s now a classroom staple. Coloring is widely used in early childhood education to support development in fine motor skills, focus, and color recognition.
✏️ How to Celebrate National Coloring Book Day
There are countless ways to enjoy this colorful holiday:
1. Host a Coloring Party
Invite friends or family for a cozy afternoon with coloring books, music, and snacks. Great for kids and adults!
2. Download Free Coloring Pages
Many websites (including this one!) offer free printables you can use today. Click here to download yours!
3. Try a New Medium
Step beyond crayons—experiment with colored pencils, gel pens, watercolor pencils, or markers.
4. Create Your Own Pages
Try making a DIY coloring book using your own doodles or printable design software.
5. Share Your Work on Social Media
Use hashtags like #NationalColoringBookDay, #ColoringForAdults, or #CreativeCalm to show off your creations and inspire others.
🎁 Gift Guide for Coloring Enthusiasts
Here are a few highly-rated favorites for every skill level:
✨ Johanna Basford’s Enchanted Forest – Beautifully intricate adult coloring book
🖌️ Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils – 72 Pack – A must-have for serious colorists
📘 Color Me Calm: 100 Templates – Perfect for stress relief
🖼️ Frameable Coloring Posters – Turn your art into decor
🧠 Why Coloring Matters
In a world full of screens and distractions, coloring gives us permission to slow down, be present, and let go of perfection. Whether it’s part of your self-care routine, a bonding moment with your kids, or a solo Sunday hobby, coloring delivers benefits far beyond the page.
So this August 2, celebrate National Coloring Book Day by making a little time to color your world happy.
🖼️ Bonus: Free Printable Coloring Page!
Download a free page here – National Coloring Book Day Edition 🌈
🧡 Tag us @DailyHolidayHub and share your creations using #NationalColoringBookDay
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