How to Insert a Calendar in a Google Sheets Cell (Step-by-Step Guide)

Adding a calendar date picker to a cell in Google Sheets makes it easy for users to select a date without typing it manually. Whether you’re building a scheduling sheet, managing deadlines, or tracking events, a calendar input can boost accuracy and streamline workflows.

In this guide, you'll learn how to insert a calendar in a Google Sheets cell with just a few clicks.

Why Use a Calendar Picker in Google Sheets?

Manually entering dates can lead to errors in formatting or typos. A calendar picker:

1. Improves consistency
   
2. Reduces errors
   
3. Enhances usability (especially in shared sheets)
   

Let’s walk through how to add one.

How to Insert a Calendar in Google Sheets (Step-by-Step)

1. Open Your Google Sheets File

Go to Google Sheets and open the file where you want to insert the calendar.

2. Select the Cell(s) for the Date Picker

Click on the cell (or highlight a range of cells) where you want the calendar to appear.

3. Go to the Data Menu

From the top menu bar, click on Data > Data validation .

4. Set the Criteria to Date

In the data validation window:

1. Under Criteria , select Date .
   
2. This tells Google Sheets that the input should be a date only.
   

5. Optional: Add a Custom Message

You can add a Help text to guide users, such as “Pick a date from the calendar.”

6. Enable Show Dropdown Calendar

Make sure the checkbox that says “Show dropdown list in cell” is selected. This activates the calendar picker.

7. Click Save

After setting up the validation, hit Save .

Now, when someone clicks that cell, they’ll see a small calendar icon. Clicking it will let them select a date — no typing required!

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FAQ: Inserting Calendar in Google Sheets

Q: Can I insert a calendar in multiple cells at once?

Yes! Simply select a range of cells before applying the data validation rules.

Q: Can I set date limits on the calendar?

Absolutely. In the data validation panel, you can specify date ranges, like “between Jan 1, 2025 and Dec 31, 2025.”

Q: What happens if someone types in the cell instead?

If the input doesn’t match the date format, it will either show an error or be rejected — depending on how you set the validation rule.

Q: Can I use the calendar in shared sheets?

Yes. All collaborators will be able to see and use the calendar picker, even without editing access (if the cell is left editable).