National DNA Day is an annual, global celebration of the discovery of the DNA double helix structure. This year is extra special! People across the world on April 25, 2023 will commemorate both the 20th anniversary of the Human Genome Project’s completion and the 70th anniversary of the discovery of the DNA double helix.
What is National DNA Day and why is it important?
National DNA Day commemorates the successful completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 and the discovery of DNA’s double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. National DNA Day is officially celebrated on April 25th and began after the first session of the 108th Congress passed concurrent resolutions designating the day in 2003. This annual celebration offers students, teachers and the public many exciting opportunities to learn about the latest advances in genomic research and explore what they may mean for their lives.
The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), one of 27 institutes and centers that form the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is encouraging organizations to host events celebrating National DNA Day from January through May of each year.
3 Activities to celebrate National DNA Day
Strawberry DNA Extraction This video includes everything you need to know about getting DNA out of strawberries. Learn easy and fun ways to extract DNA from fresh or frozen strawberries as explained by Dr. Eric Green and Jenny Montooth. Instruction sheets of the activity are available in English and Spanish.
Timeline of the Human Genome from Genome: Unlocking Life's Code
Zip through landmark moments in genetic and genomic research. Beginning with Mendel's work with peas in the mid-1800s, the timeline includes major landmark events in genetics and genomics, and culminates with completion of the Human Genome Project.
Coloring with Cell Science Coloring Book Pages
Want to celebrate DNA Day with a younger crowd? Or just the young at heart? Enjoy Cell Press' Coloring with Cell: coloring book pages exploring the world of cellular biology. These color-in comics are graphical representations of a bioscientific process, left black and white for your coloring pleasure! Pages include a double helix, DNA replication and an RNA polymerase.