On National Cancer Survivors Day® – Sunday, June 6, 2021 – people around the world will unite to recognize cancer survivors, raise awareness of the ongoing challenges cancer survivors face, and – most importantly – celebrate life. 

This year, the COVID-19 pandemic may change how we commemorate National Cancer Survivors Day®. However, it will not stop us from celebrating!

Check out some of the creative ways these organizations hosting registered National Cancer Survivors Day® events are bringing their communities together for NCSD 2021:

A Day at the (Virtual) Zoo 

In Syracuse, NY, Upstate Cancer Center is bringing the zoo to you! On Sunday, June 6, cancer survivors and other NCSD attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, including animal demonstrations, zookeeper presentations, and other surprises. To connect with Upstate Cancer Center, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Take a Walk through Nature

Ta Ta Rebels, Inc. is hosting an outdoor event in Bainbridge, PA. At the Nature Walking Trail along the Susquehanna River, NCSD event attendees will enjoy entertainment, giveaways, and a good ole dose of nature! Get connected with Ta Ta Rebels by following them on Facebook or visit TaTaRebels.org.

Paint and Sip on the Beach

Cancer survivors attending Spirit Sister Survivors’ NCSD event in Summerville, SC, will have the opportunity to paint on the beach! To stay connected, follow them on Facebook.

Hats Off to Survivors

From classic top hats to casual caps, hats come in all shapes and sizes to reflect a variety of personal styles. In Panama City Beach, FL, be ready to grab your favorite headgear and head to the “Hats Off to Survivors” event hosted by Florida Cancer Affiliates – North Florida. To stay connected, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

It’s a Hattitude!

On National Cancer Survivors Day®, Miss Cancer Warrior Organization in North Charleston, SC, wants you to come to their NCSD celebration prepared with your best headwear and ready to “Strut Your Hattitude.” Guests will also get to savor delicious food, hear from other cancer survivors, and enjoy a Parade of Hats. To get connected and RSVP (required!), follow them on Facebook.

Survivor Reunion

The Oregon Cancer Foundation in Eugene, OR, is celebrating being back together again – at a safe distance! – at their Survivor Reunion. They will be celebrating all cancer survivors, focusing especially on longevity and their annual “Red Carpet Survivors” group. Make sure to wear RED to honor those who fought valiantly and those who continue to persevere! To stay connected, follow Oregon Cancer Foundation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Hybrid Event!

Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat Ridge, CO, is covering all their bases with a hybrid event. Attendees are encouraged to decorate their cars for a “drive-through” celebration that will include goodies and handouts from doctors and staff. Additionally, the event will be livestreamed with a prerecorded guest speaker so that family, friends, and others can be a part of the celebration. This event will be held in conjunction with their annual “Heroes of Hope Walk,” which will include a create your own at-home activity in lieu of a large community run/walk. To stay connected, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

A Themed Drive-Through

In Sugarland, TX, Houston Methodist Sugarland Hospital’s NCSD guests will take part in a ruby-throated hummingbird–themed drive-through Celebration of Life. The ruby-throated hummingbird was chosen for its symbolic meaning in relation to the journey of a cancer survivor. To keep connected, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

A Red-Carpet Drive-Through

Wellstar North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, GA, invites cancer survivors and their families to a drive-through celebration that ends with a walk down the red carpet. But watch out for the paparazzi! They’ll be there to take photos in front of a backdrop and hand out swag bags and individually wrapped snacks. You can connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Drive-IN Celebration

At the NCSD celebration in East Chicago, IN, hosted by Community Healthcare System and the Community Cancer Research Foundation, cancer survivors and their families will enjoy a day at the drive-in with music, games, and a car decoration contest. The location allows for ample space to remain a safe distance and enjoy the festivities. To learn more, follow the Community Healthcare System on Facebook.

Drive “Around the World” 

At Middlesex Health Cancer Center in Westbrook, CT, cancer survivors will journey around the world from the comfort of their cars! To get connected, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Drive Thru the Park

UP Health System – Marquette is organizing a “Drive Thru the Park” for cancer survivors and their families. Participants will drive through Presque Island, concluding at the Moosewood Nature Center, where goodie bags will be given out. Make sure to pre-register (required!). Stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Find More Resources and Tips for Planning Your Own Survivors Day Event at NCSD.org  

The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation has everything you need to plan your own NCSD 2021 celebration – whether you’ll be celebrating in-person or online!

Over on the NCSD blog, we’ve put together a guide for planning virtual and socially distanced National Cancer Survivors Day® events. While you’re there, register your event and gain access to the exclusive NCSD Speakers Bureau Roster, official NCSD logos, and other resources. You can also check out our NCSD Themes page for a ton of creative ideas for hosting a National Cancer Survivors Day® Celebration of Life in your community.