December 23 National Days

December 23, 2024, is the 358th day of the year, with only 8 days left until we welcome the new year. This day features six unique national observances, ranging from festive traditions to meaningful reflections on heritage and human values.

Below is a list of all national and international days celebrated on December 23, each with a brief explanation.

Festivus: Popularized by the 1997 Seinfeld episode, Festivus is a humorous holiday created as an alternative to the commercialism of Christmas. Frank Costanza, played by Jerry Stiller, introduced the world to traditions like the “airing of grievances” and the slogan “A Festivus for the rest of us.” However, the holiday originated earlier with Daniel O’Keefe, a Reader’s Digest editor, who first celebrated it in February 1966 to address family tensions. Its December 23 date aligns with O’Keefe’s first date with his future wife, adding a personal touch to this quirky celebration.

Forefathers’ Day* (Unless on Sunday, Then Following Monday): This observance commemorates the Pilgrims’ journey aboard the Mayflower in 1620. Seeking better lives, they landed in what is now New England, marking a significant moment in American history.

HumanLight: Created in 2001 by the New Jersey Humanist Network, this secular holiday celebrates reason, compassion, humanity, and hope. Observances include communal meals, candle lighting, charity work, and gift exchanges, offering a non-religious way to embrace the December holiday season.

National Christmas Movie Marathon Day: Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit, this day invites everyone to enjoy back-to-back Christmas movie marathons with loved ones. Believed to have started in the early 2000s, it’s a cozy way to take a break from holiday stress and immerse yourself in festive cheer.

National Pfeffernusse Day: This holiday celebrates pfeffernüsse, a traditional German spice cookie often enjoyed during the holidays. Fluffy, spiced, and dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are linked to Sinterklaas festivities in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, where they have become a beloved seasonal treat.

National Roots Day: Encouraging families to explore their ancestry and heritage, this day is perfectly timed during the holidays when relatives gather and share stories. It’s an opportunity to build family trees, delve into history, and celebrate the connections that tie us together.