March 13

National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day

A fun observance on March 13 challenging the superstition that opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck, encouraging people to test the myth themselves.

Yearly Date

March 13

Observed in

United States

Introduction

March 13 is National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day, a day to celebrate the superstition of opening an umbrella indoors and all that it represents! It's believed that doing so brings with it bad luck. But in reality, this tradition dates back thousands of years and was first observed by Ancient Chinese farmers who used umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun while they worked in their fields. So if you're feeling extra lucky on March 13th, join us in celebrating National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day!

National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day Timeline

1800

Western Umbrella Introduction

Umbrella use extends beyond East Asia and the Middle East, becoming a common accessory in Europe for protection from rain.

1851

Indoor Umbrella Superstition Spreads

The superstition about opening umbrellas indoors begins circulating more widely in Western societies, attributing it to bad luck.

1926

Singing in the Rain

The popular song "Singing in the Rain" is released, celebrating umbrella use and leading to an increase in umbrella-related culture.

1993

Umbrella in Pop Culture

The umbrella becomes a central prop in films and TV shows such as "Friends" and "Mary Poppins," remaining part of popular superstition lore.

2003

National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day

Thomas & Ruth Roy of Pennsylvania, creators of many imaginative holidays, officially initiate National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day.

How to Celebrate National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day

1 Decorate umbrellas

Bring out the paint and markers and get creative. Have a competition to see who can make the most colorful, creative, or outrageous design.

2 Play indoor umbrella games

Host an indoor umbrella game tournament with all your friends. Make up some games like Umbrella Hockey, Umbrella Jousting, or even Musical Umbrellas.

3 Have an umbrella picnic

Set up a picnic blanket and eat lunch under the umbrellas. Enjoy the protection from any rain that might come indoors.

4 Make umbrella art

Gather some supplies like paper, scissors, glue, string and let your imagination run wild. You can hang your creations up around the house or give them away as gifts.

5 Have an umbrella race

Set up a course in your home or backyard and have a race using only umbrellas! Whoever crosses the finish line first wins.

Why We Love National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day

Creative Challenge

National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to explore their creativity. From decorating umbrellas to creating umbrella-inspired art, there's a myriad of exciting and creative activities that this special day encourages.

Fun Group Activities

This day promotes shared activities among friends, family or co-workers. Whether it be a friendly game of 'Umbrella Hockey' or 'Musical Umbrellas', it provides an excellent opportunity for team-building and bonding through a unique and fun experience.

Breaks Superstition

Celebrating National Open An Umbrella Indoors Day is a fun way to break the age-old superstition of opening an umbrella indoors. It encourages bravery and a sense of amusement in disregarding this old wife's tale, bringing about an atmosphere of laughter and joy.