How To Insert A Calendar In Excel

Inserting a calendar in Excel can help you plan, schedule, or track dates efficiently. Whether you’re building a timesheet, creating a booking form, or managing personal tasks, adding a calendar saves time and improves accuracy. Excel allows you to insert calendars either manually or using built-in tools and add-ins.

1. Use a Calendar Template

The easiest method is using an Excel calendar template:

• Open Excel and click File > New
• In the search bar, type “calendar”
• Browse through the available templates and choose one that fits your needs
• Click Create to open the calendar in a new workbook
  You can now customize the template with your events, tasks, or deadlines.

2. Create a Drop-Down Calendar Using Data Validation

For interactive date selection, especially in forms:

• Click on the cell where you want the calendar
• Go to Data > Data Validation
• Under Allow, choose Date
• Set your preferred start and end date
• Although this adds date restrictions, it doesn’t add a clickable calendar by default

To add a true date picker, use the next method.

3. Insert a Date Picker Control (ActiveX Control)

In some versions of Excel (mostly older or 32-bit), you can use a built-in date picker:

• Press Alt + F11 to open the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) editor
• Click Tools > References, and enable Microsoft Date and Time Picker Control (if available)
• Insert the control into your worksheet from the Developer > Insert > More Controls option
• Place the date picker where needed

Note: This option may not appear in newer Excel versions or 64-bit Excel. In such cases, third-party add-ins may be required.

4. Use Third-Party Add-Ins

If you don’t have access to the date picker, consider downloading a free calendar add-in:

• Go to Insert > Get Add-ins
• Search for “calendar” or “date picker”
• Select and install your preferred add-in
• Follow the on-screen instructions to use it in your spreadsheet

Also Read: How To Grow Strawberries In Pots