National Arbor Day is observed in Barbados every September 22. The day commemorates the anniversary of Hurricane Janet, which struck the island on this date in 1955, causing significant damage to trees. The first observance of Arbor Day in Barbados dates back to November 9, 1907, in honor of HM King George's birthday, although there are unofficial mentions of a Trees Day as early as 1905. After a period of neglect, the observance was revived in 1997, when the National Conservation Commission, along with various foundations, formed the National Arbor Day Committee to organize annual events. The day serves to celebrate the importance of trees and promote ecological awareness in the community.