Animal Crossing: New Horizons 2024 Monthly Event Updates: Guide
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (ACNH) continues to be a beloved life simulation game even years after its release, thanks in large part to its seasonal events and consistent updates. While major content updates have concluded, Nintendo has maintained the game’s event schedule through time-synced activities, ensuring both new and returning players have something to look forward to throughout the year. This guide provides a detailed overview of the 2024 monthly events in ACNH, along with tips to make the most of each celebration.
January: New Year’s Day & Winter Activities
The year kicks off with New Year’s Day. Visit Resident Services at the start of the day to receive a special New Year’s Day gift from Isabelle. The Nook’s Cranny also sells festive items like New Year’s noodles and sparkling cider during the first week of January.
Additionally, winter is still in full swing. Snowflakes continue to float around your island until late February, so use your net to catch them and craft exclusive Ice Series items. Build a perfect Snowboy daily to receive large snowflakes and DIY recipes.
February: Festivale & Valentine’s Day
February brings vibrant colors with Festivale, typically held in mid-February. Pavé the dancing peacock returns, and players can collect feathers by catching them with nets or trading with villagers. Exchange these feathers for extravagant Festivale furniture and clothing.
Though not an official event, Valentine’s Day (February 14) sees special seasonal items at Nook’s Cranny, including chocolate hearts and rose bouquets. Give gifts to your villagers to strengthen friendships!
March: Shamrock Day
Shamrock Day arrives on March 17. This event introduces St. Patrick’s Day-themed items such as the shamrock soda, shamrock doorplate, and celebratory arch. You can purchase these limited-time goods at Nook’s Cranny. Keep an eye out for villagers wearing green—they might gift you festive DIY recipes or clothing.
April: Bunny Day
The controversial but colorful Bunny Day returns in April, hosted by the energetic Zipper T. Bunny. Throughout the month, you’ll find eggs hidden around the island—in trees, underground, in the sky, and more. Collect these eggs to craft the Bunny Day series items. On Bunny Day itself, Zipper will reward you with a special DIY recipe if you’ve crafted all items.
May: May Day & International Museum Day
Early May features May Day (May 1–7). Use the May Day Ticket at the Dodo Airlines to visit a special island maze. Navigate the puzzle to meet Rover and earn unique rewards like the Rover’s briefcase.
Later in the month, International Museum Day (May 18–31) encourages players to donate to Blathers’ museum. Complete three stamps in any exhibit (fish, fossils, bugs, or art) to receive commemorative plaques and other gifts.
June: Wedding Season
Throughout June, visit Harv’s Island to help Reese and Cyrus celebrate their anniversary. Participate in photoshoots in Harv’s studio to earn Wedding Series items, including the wedding pipe organ, wedding cake, and wedding decoration. The more creative your photos, the better your rewards!
July: Summer Solstice & Fireworks Shows
July has two highlights: the Summer Solstice (June 21–July 21) and Fireworks Shows every Sunday in August (though preparations start in late July). During the solstice, purchase the summer-solstice crown at Nook’s Cranny. As August approaches, Redd will occasionally appear to sell boppers (glow-in-the-dark headbands), and Isabelle will distribute DIY recipes for sparklers and fountain fireworks.
August: Fireworks Continues & Bug-Off
Fireworks shows dominate Sunday nights in August. Enjoy the dazzling displays, play games with Redd, and earn exclusive items.
Also, don’t miss the Bug-Off tournament, typically held on the third Saturday of the month. Compete against Flick to catch as many bugs as possible within three minutes. Earn points to exchange for bug-themed rewards.
September: Acorn & Pine Cone Season
Autumn begins in September. Shake hardwood trees to collect acorns and pine trees for pine cones. These are used to craft seasonal DIY recipes like the tree’s bounty lamp and pine bonsai tree.
Though not a timed event, this is the perfect month to start gathering materials for fall crafts.
October: Halloween
October 31 is Halloween! Prepare by buying candy from Nook’s Cranny throughout the month. On Halloween night, dress in costume and give candy to your villagers—or face their tricks! Jack, the pumpkin king, will arrive and reward you with spooky series DIYs and Halloween-themed items.
November: Mushroom Season & Thanksgiving
November brings mushroom season: five types of mushrooms appear around cedar and hardwood trees. Use them to craft mush series items.
Turkey Day (Thanksgiving) occurs on the fourth Thursday. Chef Franklin visits your island and requests specific fish, bugs, and crops. Help him prepare a feast to earn exclusive DIY recipes and furniture.
December: Toy Day & Winter Solstice
December is packed with events. Toy Day (December 24) sees Jingle the reindeer visiting your island. Give gifts to your villagers (while wearing a Santa outfit) to earn rewards.
The Winter Solstice (December 21–22) brings the winter-solstice sweater to Nook’s Cranny.
As the year ends, enjoy the countdown to New Year’s Eve (December 31) with a fireworks show and party items at the Resident Services plaza.
Tips for Maximizing Events:
- Check in with Isabelle daily for event announcements.
- Time-travel responsibly if you miss an event—but note that it may affect turnip prices and villager relationships.
- Trade with friends online for event items you might have missed.
- Prepare resources (like iron nuggets, wood, and custom kits) in advance for event crafting.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains a dynamic experience through its annual events. Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer, 2024 offers plenty of opportunities to decorate, celebrate, and create lasting memories on your island paradise.
