National Hugging Day is observed each year on January 21. In 2026, the date marks the 40th anniversary of the observance.
The day was founded in 1986 by Kevin Zaborney, a pastor and psychotherapist from Michigan who believed that many people hesitate to express affection openly, especially in public.
He deliberately chose January 21 because it falls between the winter holidays and Valentine’s Day, a time of year often linked with seasonal low mood and social withdrawal and occurring close to Blue Monday, a single day commonly described as one of the most emotionally challenging points of the year.
The purpose of National Hugging Day is to encourage healthy, appropriate expressions of affection and to draw attention to the emotional importance of human connection.
Other days that share a similar spirit with National Hugging Day include National Friendship Day, which highlights the importance of nurturing and appreciating friendships. Another related day is World Kindness Day, encouraging acts of kindness and spreading goodwill. Both days emphasize the value of human connection and kindness, just like National Hugging Day.
When Is National Hugging Day Celebrated?
National Hugging Day is celebrated annually on January 21. The fixed date places the observance in late January, a time often associated with reduced daylight and increased emotional fatigue, reinforcing its focus on connection and emotional well-being.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | January 21, Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 21, Thursday |
| 2028 | January 21, Friday |
| 2029 | January 21, Sunday |
| 2030 | January 21, Monday |
Did You Know? Facts About Hugs
Before you dive into your hugging spree, here are some fun facts that will make you appreciate this simple gesture even more:
- The word hug is believed to come from the Old Norse word hugga which means to comfort.
- On average, a hug lasts about 3 seconds, but longer hugs of 20 seconds or more have been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone that fosters connection and reduces stress.
- In 2010, the longest marathon hug lasted an incredible 36 hours, 36 minutes, and 36 seconds, setting a Guinness World Record.
- Hugs can boost your immune system by lowering levels of stress hormones, which can make your body more resilient to illness.
- According to research, people need at least four hugs a day for survival, eight for maintenance, and twelve for growth. So, don’t hold back!
Ways to Celebrate National Hugging Day
Celebrating National Hugging Day is all about spreading joy and warmth. Here are a few ways to take part in the festivities:
- Give a Hug: The simplest way to celebrate is by giving hugs to your loved ones, friends, and even coworkers. If you’re comfortable, you can even offer free hugs to strangers (with consent, of course!).
- Virtual Hugs: For those who are far away, sending a virtual hug through a message or video call can still bring that warm feeling of connection.
- Learn What Hugs Mean: Hugs can convey various emotions, depending on the relationship. Between friends, they often show support and trust. Among family, hugs express love and warmth, while in romantic relationships, they signify affection and intimacy.
You can learn more about different kinds of hugs from this video:
