March 14

White Day

A cultural observance on March 14 celebrating reciprocal gift-giving in Japan, where men traditionally return gifts of white sweets or chocolate to women who gave them Valentine's Day chocolate.

Yearly Date

March 14

Observed in

Japan

Introduction

Mark your calendars for March 14, because it's time to celebrate White Day! This holiday originated in Japan as a way for men to return the favor to women who gave them gifts on Valentine's Day. It's now celebrated in many Asian countries and has become a popular day for couples to show their love and appreciation for each other. So whether you're single or in a relationship, White Day is a day to spread love and kindness to those around you. Let's dive into the history of this special holiday and discover fun ways to celebrate it!

White Day Timeline

1978

White Day Inception

The holiday was first celebrated in Japan, initiated by the National Confectionery Industry Association as an "answer day" to Valentine's Day.

1980

Spreads to South Korea

White Day was first introduced in South Korea by a confectionery company, which marked its beginning in this country.

1990s

Expansion to Other Countries

During the 1990s, White Day expanded beyond Japan and South Korea to other Asian countries like China and Taiwan.

2000s

White Day Goes Digital

With the advent of online shopping and social media, White Day started to gain more global recognition as consumers shared their celebrations worldwide.

2010s

Cultural Adaptation

As Asian cultures and traditions continue to influence the world, the celebration of White Day becomes more adapted into various societies.

How to Celebrate White Day

1 Bake white themed desserts

Get creative in the kitchen and bake desserts with a white theme, such as white chocolate cake, coconut macaroons, or vanilla sugar cookies. These treats will be perfect for celebrating White Day.

2 Exchange white gifts with friends

Gather some friends and exchange gifts that are all white. This could include candles, flowers, or even something as simple as a white t-shirt. It will be a fun and unique way to celebrate White Day.

3 Have a spa day with white treatments

Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day and indulge in treatments that are all white, such as a milk bath, rice face mask, or coconut oil hair treatment. It will be the perfect way to pamper yourself on White Day.

4 Make white cocktails

Get creative and mix up some white cocktails to celebrate White Day. You could make a white Russian, mojito, or try your hand at inventing your own white drink.

5 Host a white themed dinner party

Gather some friends and have a dinner party with a white theme. This could include all white decorations, attire, and a menu featuring dishes such as chicken alfredo, cauliflower risotto, and mashed potatoes. It will be a memorable way to celebrate White Day with loved ones.

Why We Love White Day

It's a celebration of love and friendship

White Day is traditionally seen as a day for men to return the favor to women who gave them gifts on Valentine's Day. However, it has evolved into a day to celebrate all types of love and relationships among friends, family, and partners.

It's an opportunity to express gratitude

On White Day, it's not just about giving gifts - it's also about expressing gratitude and appreciation for the important people in your life. It's a chance to show someone how much you care about them and value their presence in your life.

The color white symbolizes purity and new beginnings

White is often associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings. On this holiday, we can use this symbolism to celebrate fresh starts and positive intentions in both romantic relationships and friendships.