National Nothing Day 🤷

Overview

National Nothing Day, observed annually on January 16th, is an unofficial holiday conceived to provide Americans with one day a year when they can simply sit and do nothing. Proposed by columnist Harold Coffin, it offers a moment to pause from celebrations and responsibilities, promoting the idea of guilt-free inaction.

Observed each year on January 16, National Nothing Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

The holiday was first proposed in 1972 by syndicated columnist Harold Coffin.

Coffin's intention was to give Americans a day where they were not expected to celebrate, honor, or observe anything.

Quick facts

• DateJanuary 16
• TypeCultural / community observance
• Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to observe

Do absolutely nothing

• Avoid schedules and plans.
• Skip productivity goals.
• Enjoy unstructured time.
• Let the day unfold naturally.

Rest and reset

• Take a nap.
• Sit quietly with no agenda.
• Enjoy boredom without filling it.
• Give yourself permission to pause.

Fun facts

• National Nothing Day was created in 1973 by columnist Harold Pullman Coffin as a protest against the growing number of holidays.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is National Nothing Day?

It is observed on January 16 each year.

What is National Nothing Day?

National Nothing Day, observed annually on January 16, is an unofficial holiday conceived to provide Americans with one day a year when they can simply sit and do nothing. Proposed by columnist Harold Coffin, it offers a moment to pause from celebrations and responsibilities, promoting the idea of guilt-free inaction.

How do people observe National Nothing Day?

Avoid plans and allow the day to stay unstructured.

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