When it comes to holidays, the obvious ones typically come to mind. And for good reason—I mean, who doesn’t love Christmas time with its festive cheer, or the 4th of July where it’s literally expected to make something explode and then ooh and aah over the resulting sparks? And, of course, we mustn’t forget about Valentine’s Day, where adorable heart-themed decorations reign supreme (though I must say, I’ve always been confused that for 11 months of the year we say that red and pink clash, but in February they are hailed as the perfect color combo). But what about the lesser-known holidays? Sure, they’re not notable enough to cause a bank closure, but I think they’re a great way to infuse more fun into your year. So here are five holidays you may not have heard of but should consider celebrating.
- National Picnic Day – April 23
I am a huge picnic fan. Packing a lunch and enjoying it outdoors is one of life’s simplest yet delightful pleasures. And whether you go alone and use the time to contemplate, or bring a friend and enjoy sweet conversation in the fresh air, there’s really no way to do a picnic wrong.
- World Letter Writing Day – September 1
Another sweetly simple holiday, this one is all about the art of letter writing. You just need a pen, paper, and words to fill the page. You can write to a friend, family member, a complete stranger (check out globalpenfriends.com to get connected with an international pen pal!), or even your future self.
- National Day of Encouragement – September 12
Have you ever been in a bad mood, but then someone complimented you and it turned your whole day around? That’s the spirit of the National Day of Encouragement—to intentionally uplift one another. Make it a personal challenge and try to encourage as many people as possible on September 12!
- National Talk Like a Pirate Day – September 19
Arrrrr you ready for this one? National Talk Like a Pirate Day is your chance to channel your inner Jack Sparrow. And to complete the day, have a Pirates of the Caribbean movie marathon complete with snacks like Pirates Booty.
- National Sandwich Day – November 3
Maybe not the most interesting holiday on this list, but I believe there’s magic in celebrating the ordinary. And what could possibly be more ordinary than a sandwich? So find fun in the mundane and try:
- Elevating your PB&J with a jelly you’ve never had
- Buying sandwiches from several sub shops in town, and ranking which is the best
- Cutting your sandwich into fun shapes
So, whether you write a letter to a stranger or get up the courage to talk like a pirate to the grocery store cashier, I hope you have fun trying out some new and unusual holidays this year.
