Just Because Day

Just Because Day is a holiday where you can do something unusual, funny, or kind without having to explain why. It is a great opportunity to break away from daily routine and to appreciate the joy of life.

History

Just Because Day was first celebrated by a person named B. Lynn Goodwin’s family in the late 1950s or early 1960s. According to Goodwin, the holiday started with a transistor radio that his father, Joseph J. Goodwin, gave to his mother. The holiday was initially celebrated on the third Wednesday of May, and it was all about having a free evening and spending time together as a family. The tradition was carried on by Goodwin’s sister and her own family.

Interesting facts

Salvador Dali, a Spanish Surrealist artist, is known for celebrating Just Because Day in his own unique way. He would take an anteater for a walk on a gilded leash, give lectures to students in a diving suit, and even appear in public with a loaf of bread or a herring on his head.

How to take part

• Take an unplanned vacation day and allow yourself to relax in the middle of the workweek.
• Buy something that brings no practical use but brings you joy, such as a beautiful souvenir, a child’s toy, a cute houseplant, or a pool table.
• Play with children and let them take on the role of “parent” for a half-day, and you take on the role of “child.” You’ll learn a lot about your own family and methods of education.
• Do something you’ve been too scared to do before, such as painting a picture, creating an abstract sculpture, joining a fitness class, or dying your hair an unexpected color.
• Knock on your neighbor’s door and compliment their flower garden, dog, or facade design.
• Walk in a new direction.
• Give someone a bouquet of flowers and say a compliment, just because!

When is Just Because Day celebrated in 2024?

Just Because Day is observed on August 27 each year.

Observations