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National Hugging Day

Spread warmth and love this National Hugging Day - share hugs with your loved ones to show how much you care!

Thursday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 21

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYRelationships

SUBCATEGORYFriendship

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to show some extra love and affection on National Hugging Day on January 21! This special day was created in 1986 by Reverend Kevin Zaborney from Caro, Michigan, as a way to spread more joy and kindness around the world. Everyone loves a good hug, so why not use this day to give someone you care about an extra tight squeeze?

TIMELINE

National Hugging Day Timeline

National Hugging Day Inception

Reverend Kevin Zaborney establishes National Hugging Day in Caro, Michigan hoping to encourage people to express their emotions openly.

First Media Coverage

The holiday gets its first media coverage, helping it gain wider recognition and popularity.

Recognition Outside the USA

National Hugging Day begins to be recognized outside of the United States, spreading its message of love and warmth worldwide.

Guinness World Record

The world record for most hugs given in a day by an individual was established as a celebration of National Hugging Day.

"Free Hugs" Campaigns

Numerous "free hugs" campaigns and events took place globally, further promoting National Hugging Day.

Virtual Hugs

People globally began sending "virtual hugs" as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing the adaptability of the holiday's spirit in challenging times.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Hugging Day

Give your friends a hug

There's nothing like giving your friends a big hug to show that you care and appreciate them. Show them how much they mean to you by giving them a big squeeze.

HUG

Hug a stranger

On National Hugging Day, why not try something different and give a stranger a hug? You never know, it might just make their day!

HOST

Host a hugging party

Throw a party for your friends and family to celebrate National Hugging Day! Ask everyone to bring a dish to share and make sure the atmosphere is one of love and acceptance.

SEND

Send hugs in the mail

Send out postcards or letters with heartfelt messages of love and gratitude. Include a hug emoji or draw yourself giving someone a hug to really put a smile on their face.

MAKE

Make hug coupons

If you don't have anyone near you to give hugs to, make some coupons for hugs that your friends can redeem at any time. This way, even when you're far apart, you can still share the love.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Hugging Day

Hugs Strengthen Relationships

Hugs don't just make us feel good; they strengthen relationships and foster bonds between individuals. Even if it's just with a friend or family member, giving hugs is an easy way to show affection and appreciation for those around us. So let's show some love this National Hugging Day!

Hugs are comforting

There's nothing quite like the feeling of a warm hug from someone you love. Hugs can provide comfort and reassurance in times of sorrow, making us feel protected and loved. They remind us that we're not alone and that we have people who care about us deeply.

Hugs promote physical health

Hugging can be beneficial for our physical health as well! Research has shown that hugs help lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels, which can lead to better overall wellbeing. They can also stimulate the release of certain hormones in the body that boost our moods.

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