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National Smile Month

It's time to spread some positivity and joy during National Smile Month - put a smile on someone's face today!

Monday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 17

OBSERVED INUnited Kingdom

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYDental

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to flash those pearly whites and spread some joy because National Smile Month is here on May 17! This month-long celebration was first launched in the United Kingdom in 1977, with the goal of promoting good oral health and raising awareness about the importance of a healthy smile. But it's not just about dental hygiene – smiling has been shown to have numerous benefits for our mental and emotional well-being as well. So let's all take this opportunity to brighten someone's day with a simple smile, and make the world a happier place one grin at a time.

TIMELINE

National Smile Month Timeline

National Smile Week

National Smile Week was first launched in the United Kingdom to promote good dental health.

Expansion to a Month

National Smile Week expanded to become National Smile Month due to its popularity and impact.

Global Reach

National Smile Month started to gain global attention, with other countries participating in the celebration.

US Recognition

The United States recognizes and celebrates National Smile Month for the first time.

Digital Celebrations

Due to the influence of social media, digital celebrations of National Smile Month increased globally.

Global Pandemic Impact

In spite of the Covid-19 pandemic, virtual events and activities are held for National Smile Month, emphasizing its importance for overall mental well-being.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Smile Month

Spread Smiles Around Town

Take a walk through your community and hand out small gifts or compliments to strangers to brighten their day and spread smiles.

HOST

Host a Smile-Off Competition

Get your friends together for a smile-off competition! See who can hold the biggest, cheesiest smile for the longest amount of time.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a Local Hospital or Nursing Home

Spread smiles and bring joy to those in need by volunteering at a local hospital or nursing home. You can help with activities or simply spend time talking and laughing with the patients or residents.

ORGANIZE

Organize a Smile Flash Mob

Gather a group of friends and plan a surprise smile flash mob in a public place. Get creative with your smiles and make passersby laugh and join in on the fun.

TAKE

Take a Smiling Selfie Challenge

Challenge yourself and your friends to take smiling selfies every day for the entire month. Share them on social media with the hashtag #NationalSmileMonth to spread joy and positivity online.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Smile Month

It promotes good oral health

National Smile Month also serves as a reminder to take care of our teeth and gums. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene for both physical and emotional well-being. So let's all smile proudly with healthy teeth and spread awareness about the importance of dental care!

It spreads happiness

National Smile Month is all about encouraging people to share their smiles and spread positivity. Smiling has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and even boost the immune system - so why not participate in this month-long celebration of joy?

It reminds us to be grateful

During National Smile Month, we are reminded to appreciate the little things in life that make us happy. Whether it's a kind gesture from a stranger or a beautiful sunset, taking a moment to smile and be grateful can uplift our spirits and bring more positivity into our lives.

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Share a Smile Day

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