Every February 7, chemistry lovers celebrate Periodic Table Day — marking the 1863 publication of one of the first periodic tables of elements. It's a fun, nerdy holiday for teachers, students, and anyone who still gets a little thrill from the noble gases. Here's how to celebrate, plus gift ideas that nod to the elements without being a novelty.
What is Periodic Table Day?
Periodic Table Day commemorates John Newlands, who published an early table of the elements arranged by atomic weight on February 7, 1863 — groundwork that Dmitri Mendeleev later built into the table we know today. Classrooms mark it with element trivia, “adopt an element” activities, and small gifts.
Ways to celebrate
Run an element-guessing game, have students claim a favorite element and defend it, or engrave a gift with someone's “signature” element (Au for the golden one, Fe for the strong one, He for the light-hearted). It's a low-lift way to make chemistry personal.
Periodic Table Day gift ideas
1. An Erlenmeyer flask water bottle
The Flask Vessel pairs the iconic flask silhouette with real, everyday utility — insulated double-wall stainless steel that lasts for years.
2. A beaker tumbler
The Beaker Drink Tumbler brings lab-bench style to coffee and cold drinks.
3. Engrave an element
This is the perfect holiday for personalization — engrave an element symbol, atomic number, or name. Explore personalized science gifts.
Where to shop
Browse the chemistry gifts & drinkware collection, or see our best science gifts guide. For another chemistry holiday, don't miss Mole Day gifts on October 23.
Frequently asked questions
When is Periodic Table Day? February 7, marking the 1863 publication of an early periodic table by John Newlands.
What's a good Periodic Table Day gift? Something you can tie to an element — an engraved flask water bottle or beaker tumbler with a symbol or atomic number.
