Red Ribbon Week | Oct. 23–31
Make A Difference. Be A Hero. Stay Drug Free.™
Red Ribbon Week is an important time for elementary students to learn that the choices they make can help keep their minds and bodies healthy. The 2026 theme, “Make A Difference. Be A Hero. Stay Drug Free.™”, reminds students that being a hero doesn't require superpowers—it can be as simple as making healthy choices and helping others do the same. For young children, Red Ribbon Week is about building positive habits early, developing decision-making skills, and creating a strong foundation for a healthy future.
During October 23–31, 2026, Red Ribbon Week encourages kids to:
- Make healthy and positive choices
- Learn how to say no to drugs and other harmful substances
- Take care of their bodies and minds
- Be a positive role model and make a difference
- Encourage friends to make safe, healthy choices
- Build confidence, good character, and healthy habits
Longfellow Leopards will be participating in a week of fun events! If your child would like to dress up or join in the activities, here are the events to watch for:
Monday, October 26, - Color Your Grade!
Kindergarten: Purple
1st Grade: Red
2nd Grade: Orange
3rd Grade: Green
4th Grade: Yellow
5th Grade: Blue
Tuesday, October 27, - Decades Day--Dress like your favorite decade! 50s, 60s, 70, 80s, 90s!
Wednesday, October 28, - Neon Day--Bright colors, bright choices!
Thursday, October 29, - Red Ribbon Spirit Day--Wear RED to show your commitment to being drug-free!
Friday, October 30, - Superhero Day--Dress as your favorite hero—real or imaginary! You have the power to protect your mind and body!
The History of Red Ribbon Week
Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 after the tragic death of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent who was working to stop drug trafficking in Mexico. He was kidnapped and killed by drug traffickers in February 1985.
After his death, Kiki’s friends, family, and community members in Calexico, California, began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to preventing drug use and honoring his sacrifice. The first Camarena Club was started by students at Calexico Union High School in April 1985.
The movement continued to grow. In 1988, the National Family Partnership coordinated the first National Red Ribbon Week, with President and Mrs. Reagan serving as honorary chairpersons.
Today, Red Ribbon Week is observed October 23–31 and has become the nation's longest-running and largest drug-prevention awareness campaign. Schools, families, and communities use the week to encourage young people to make healthy choices and commit to living drug-free.
A simple version for Longfellow families
Why do we wear red?
Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 to honor DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and his commitment to keeping communities safe. After his death, people began wearing red ribbons to show their commitment to living drug-free.
Today, schools across the country celebrate Red Ribbon Week by teaching students about healthy choices, positive decision-making, and the importance of staying drug-free.
At Longfellow, we celebrate by being healthy, making good choices, and being heroes in our own way!
2026 Theme: “Make A Difference. Be A Hero. Stay Drug Free.™”
