About National Hugging Day
National Hug Day or National Hugging Day is an annual holiday created by Rev. Kevin Zaborney. It occurs on January 21st and is officially recognized by the United States Copyright Office, but is not a public holiday. The holiday was founded on March 29th 1986 in Caro, Michigan, and has since spread to multiple countries. National Hugging Day gained popularity in Germany in 2011.
Zaborney decided to start the holiday when he saw, that after the holidays people seemed to be a little low in spirit, especially between the gap that follows after Christmas, New Year, and Valentine’s Day.
He wanted to introduce a day like Hugging Day to cheer everyone up. Kevin felt that many Americans are reluctant to express their feelings in public, so a day like this would help change that. He also asked people to always respect the personal space of others, and act accordingly.
The word "hug" is thought to have originated from the Old Norse word "hugga," which meant "to comfort" and first appeared about 450 years ago.
Hugging is Good for You!
Hugging brings joy, comfort and increases the bonds between people. Not only does it bring positivity and sweetness in relationships. Hugging is also known for its other beneficial aspects such as stress reduction, better heart health, and improved immunity. Hugging generates oxytocin in the brain which is a chemical (neurotransmitter) that is responsible for happiness.
Because hugging is something everyone can do and because it is a healthful form of touching, this day should be spent hugging anyone who will accept a hug, especially family and friends.
Similar Observances
National Night Out Day
Read More
National Sneak Some Zucchini Into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day
Read More
Other Observances on January 21st 2025
National Day of Racial Healing
Read More
