Annual observance

Zipper Day

April 29 Kindness / Community Updated 2025-12-17

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

Zipper Day, observed annually on April 29th, celebrates the ingenuity and widespread impact of the zipper, an invention that revolutionized fastening across countless industries. From clothing and accessories to luggage and industrial applications, the zipper provides a quick, secure, and efficient closure mechanism. This day commemorates its development and appreciation for how this ingenious device has become an indispensable part of modern daily life.

Observed each year on April 29, Zipper Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Zipper Day, celebrated on April 29, highlights the transformative impact of the zipper, an invention that has streamlined fastening in various industries and everyday life. This holiday encourages reflection on the creativity and innovation that drive progress in our communities and daily interactions.

Origin and story

The earliest known patent for a 'Clasp Locker or Unlocker for Shoes' was granted to Whitcomb L. Judson in 1893, often considered the zipper's precursor.

The modern, reliable zipper design was significantly improved and patented as the 'Separable Fastener' by Swedish-American engineer Gideon Sundback in 1917.

Quick facts

  • DateApril 29
  • TypeKindness / Community
  • Great forCommunity groups, Friends, Coworkers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share a feel-good story tied to the observance.
  • Share one fast fact about Zipper Day: The earliest known patent for a 'Clasp Locker or Unlocker for Shoes' was granted to Whitcomb L.
  • Bring Zipper Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
  • Do one small favor quietly for a friend or coworker.

Fun facts

  • The earliest known patent for a 'Clasp Locker or Unlocker for Shoes' was granted to Whitcomb L. Judson in 1893, often considered the zipper's precursor.
  • The modern, reliable zipper design was significantly improved and patented as the 'Separable Fastener' by Swedish-American engineer Gideon Sundback in 1917.
  • The term 'zipper' was coined in 1923 by BFGoodrich, who used Sundback's fastener on rubber boots and noted the distinctive 'zip' sound it made.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is Zipper Day?
It is observed on April 29 each year.
What is Zipper Day?
Zipper Day, observed annually on April 29th, celebrates the ingenuity and widespread impact of the zipper, an invention that revolutionized fastening across countless industries. From clothing and accessories to luggage and industrial applications, the zipper provides a quick, secure, and efficient closure mechanism. This day commemorates its development and appreciation for how this ingenious device has become an indispensable part of modern daily life.
How do people celebrate Zipper Day?
Share a feel-good story tied to the observance.

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