There are literally dozens of free stand-alone reminder programs. Even more if you include sticky notes utilities and calendaring programs that offer reminder features.

Rainlender [1] is a much slicker product but a tad more difficult to use. Rainlender is not only a reminder program but a very capable iCal "compatible" desktop calendar, though the calendar feature can be turned off. Used as a reminder and "to do" program it's very feature rich with a really snazzy interface employing things like variable windows transparency, impressive mouse-over effects, hotkeys and easy skinning the way the tray icon shows the current date. It also has several features missing from Easy To-Do such as the ability to synchronize events between clients as well as Outlook appointment integration.

This program will meet the reminder needs of most users though some will prefer Rainlender's optional desktop calendar, impressive interface and powerful features.

Recommended Products:
Firefox and Thunderbird users also have the option of using the free ReminderFox and Mozilla Calendar extensions which together provide similar functionality. They offer the advantage of avoiding the need for running a separate reminder application but at the cost of not having reminders available when Firefox or Thunderbird aren't running.

Product Specifications:

[1] Rainlendar
Website: http://www.rainlendar.net/cms/index.php
License: Freeware
Download Filesize:2.94MB
Windows Operating Systems Supported: 2000/XP/2003 Server/Vista
Non-Windows Operating Systems Supported:Yes Linux
64 Bit Capable:Not Documented
Portable Version Available:Not Documented
Additional Software Required:No