National Day of Joy
National Day of Joy is a celebration that invites everyone to look for simple bursts of happiness in daily life.
It’s a friendly nudge to focus on what sparks a smile, whether that’s a warm embrace from a loved one or a playful moment with a friend.
This day highlights joy not as an occasional treat but as an essential part of our health and mood. Research shows laughter boosts oxygen flow, eases stress, and even strengthens immunity.
Comfort Keepers, the creators, based the idea on witnessing how small moments uplift people of all ages.
This celebration feels like a story unfolding around us. Picture a family gathering for a lighthearted chat or having a quick laugh with neighbors. Each smile becomes a stepping stone to better mental and physical well‑being.
It prompts people to share kindness, like saying hello to a stranger or giving someone a genuine compliment.
Doing this turns ordinary routines into bright, meaningful moments and builds a spirit of care that spreads beyond that one day.
How to Celebrate the National Day of Joy
Here are some fun ways to mark the National Day of Joy:
Share a small surprise
Send a thoughtful message or a quick note to someone. Include details that matter to them. Studies show even tiny kind gestures lift moods.
Give others your time
Have a playful chat, make someone laugh, or listen. Genuine interaction can strengthen bonds and improve well‑being.
Try a creative moment
Grab paper and colors, or sing along to a favorite tune. Taking part in art uplifts mood and calms stress.
Move in ways you enjoy
Take a short walk, dance around your kitchen, or stretch. Physical movement releases happy hormones and eases tension.
Name three things you like
Write down small blessings or positive events from your day. Reflecting on good things supports a happier mindset.
Brighten someone’s day
Do something unexpected, like helping carry something heavy or leaving an encouraging note. Simple acts can spark a chain reaction of joy.
Connect over food or drink
Share a snack or brew together and enjoy relaxed conversation. Bonding over treats brings warmth and laughter.
History of the National Day of Joy
The National Day of Joy began in 2019, created by Comfort Keepers, a company that provides care for older adults.
Their team noticed something important while helping clients—little moments of happiness often brought the biggest smiles.
They wanted to share that message more widely, so they launched a day focused on spreading joy. The goal was to remind people that delight doesn’t need to come from something big or expensive.
They chose the last Wednesday in June as a time when many people could pause and enjoy life in the middle of the year.
That first year, they also shared survey results showing that most Americans believed joy came from time with loved ones, not from wealth or success.
Since then, the day has grown. Local caregivers have hosted cheerful visits, families have joined in, and news outlets have picked up the message.
Each year, more people take part in simple, thoughtful ways. A kind word, a walk outside, or time spent laughing with someone close—all fit the spirit of the day.
What began as a small idea within one caregiving group has become a national reminder that moments of joy matter and that anyone can create them.
Also on ...
View all holidays
Global Beatles Day
Put on your favorite Beatles record and honor the British global phenomenon that changed the face of music forever, and continues to influence musicians everywhere.
National Catfish Day
Cook up some catfish at home, visit a catfish festival, or find a local restaurant serving this tasty fish to make the most of National Catfish Day.
National Bakewell Tart Day
Savor the exquisite blend of almond-infused goodness in a dessert that epitomizes the perfect harmony of flavors.
Goat Cheese Day
See what goats cheeses are local to your area, and give them a try. Find a recipe, or simply taste-test a few to see what you like best and diversify your food.
We think you may also like...
World AIDS Day
Don a red ribbon to raise awareness of this prevalent condition, counter misinformation and stigma and donate to education and research efforts.
Global Love Day
Love yourself, love your friends and family, and love everyone else around you: spread some positivity and joy to an often tough world on World Love Day.
