Quick Facts

Every January 21st

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Learn about Hugging Day

Hugging, one of the simplest ways to show affection, is something people do with their loved ones all the time. However, it is not something that’s done enough these days! Hugging Day aims to encourage people to hug more, whether they know the person or not.

Hugging Day also helps people understand their emotions, as hugging makes feeling a more accepted practice and allows people to connect with one another on a more intimate level.  

History of Hugging Day

First celebrated in 1986, Hugging Day became a popular holiday through the fact that people just like the idea of it. Founded by Kevin Zaborney, he thought of the idea for the holiday after noticing how in between Christmas time, New Year’s and Valentine’s Day, people tend to be in low spirits despite how positive the holidays are.

In the United States, studies have shown that people tend not to show their emotions in public, and with Hugging Day, it aims to change the way people look at emotions. Hugging has many benefits; it helps reduce stress by showing support, helps boost the immune system, improves heart health, and produces oxytocin, a brain chemical associated with happiness. 

On this day, people take the time to hug their loved ones. On the Hugging Day official website, competitions are held to see who gives the best hugs, with contestants coming from all over the world.


Kids especially love this holiday, as they are generally the ones who hug people the most and aren’t afraid to show their emotions. In a society that appears cold and uncaring, there are a lot of places that have a lot of hope in them; Hugging Day is just one example of that hope. 

How to Celebrate Hugging Day 

The best way you can celebrate this holiday is by hugging people! Hug your mom, your dad, your grandparents, your kids – hug everyone you know. If you are more bold about your emotions, give free hugs to the people in your neighborhood!

There will most likely be people out there willing to give hugs back because this day is all about spreading love. Share this holiday with friends and colleagues and encourage them to hug everyone they know, love, and meet!