In the wake of the holiday season’s chaos, the spring and summer months may feel monotonous.  With the exception of Easter, which not everyone celebrates, March, April, and May can be an unending slough devoid of festivities… but did you know that April 9th is Unicorn Day?  Beyond better-known April holidays like Arbor Day —which are often overshadowed by Easter themselves— nearly every day of the month is a slept-on celebration with the potential to be your new favorite day of the year.

Record Store Day (April 12th): Officially recognized in 2008, this niche holiday was pitched by two independent record store owners as a marketing strategy.  Since then, it has been picked up by record stores across the country, featuring special sales, live music, and fundraisers.  Locals are given a taste of good old-fashioned vinyl and small businesses are able to gain traction within their community.  It’s done wonders for start-up stores and is a great way to get involved and meet new people who share a rapture for records.  Even if you missed it this year, there are plenty of holidays later this month for you to celebrate —here are some examples.

National Pigs in a Blanket Day (April 24th): Though it is likely linked to Betty Crocker’s 1957 kids’ cookbook, this holiday’s origins are still unclear.  Nevertheless, these delicious snacks are the perfect finger food for any occasion.  In fact, the term “pigs in a blanket” can refer to nearly any food consisting of a meat or meat alternative wrapped in something.  While the classic is a hotdog wrapped in dough, regional variations include cabbage rolls with beef or cheese filling.  No matter your personal tastes, this is a great day to share recipes and make food with your friends and family.

Telephone Day (April 25th): In honor of the first successful transmission of speech in 1876, telephone day celebrates the advancement of technology and connection over long distances.  This is a perfect time to call loved ones who are far away and to learn the history of this incredible invention.  Those in the know often visit telephone museums which feature more obscure, wacky versions of the technology we still rely on today.

Audubon Day (April 26th): Never heard the name before?  Then the 26th is a prime time to learn about French-American scientist and painter John James Audubon.  Known for his documentation and paintings of wildlife, Audubon’s most revered work is a book containing over 700 birds found in North America.  As spring sets in and birds return from the south, get out your binoculars and bird-watching book, set out a bird feeder, and watch these magnificent creatures in flight.  Bird watching is a relaxing hobby to pick up in the last hectic months of the school year.

National Pet Parents Day (April 27th): We all know about Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day, but now it’s time to appreciate the hard work we put into taking care of our fur babies.  Founded in 2007 by Veterinary Pet Insurance, this modern holiday provides ample time for pet parents to appreciate their pets: no matter how many or what kind of pets you own, this is an annual reminder to give some extra love to your animal companion(s).

Blueberry Pie Day (April 28th): Here’s a sweet way to end the month —how about a fresh-baked blueberry pie shared with your favorite people?  In most regions, blueberry picking season spans from April to August, so a pie baked at this time of year is sure to come with local berries and a handmade touch.  While the holiday’s origins are unclear, the berry itself has been baked into local history and culinary tradition for centuries, long before blueberries were domesticated into the fruit we know today.  While we Oregonians might have to wait a few months to have a berry picking party, what better time to share a mouthwatering homemade blueberry pie?National Garden Month: In 1986, National Garden Week was announced to be April 12-18; in 2003, we decided that wasn’t enough.  Enter the invention of National Garden Month: the exciting start to planting season.  All across the country, lawns are mowed, beds are tilled, seeds are planted, and flowers bloom.  Need a reason to do some weeding?  Here it is!  In the midst of your frantic studying, take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of your backyard and the dedication required for its upkeep.  Shop for new seeds, plant old ones, and give your tools a tune-up —and if you don’t have a garden, visit one!  From Portland’s majestic Japanese Gardens to the raised bed on your neighbor’s lawn, now’s the time to appreciate the hard work put into making plants grow.