To show the date in the Windows XP taskbar all the time (without the use of any additional sofware) you can extend it “two tiers” high and it will display the date.

The default taskbar looks like this.

Right-click an empty area and make sure “Lock the Taskbar” is not checked.

A small border will appear above the taskbar. Place your mouse cursor on that border and your cursor will change to an up/down arrow. Left click, hold and drag up.

When finished your taskbar will be “two tiers” high and display the day and date.

You’re done!