Do Something Nice Day

National Do Something Nice Day is celebrated every year on October 5 across America. This special day is a wonderful opportunity to spread kindness and bring more goodness into the world. Too often, we focus on the attention we lack from others, but making a difference is simpler than it seems. Doing something nice for someone almost always brings positive results—kindness truly is its own reward.

History

The idea of helping and showing generosity to others has existed for centuries. Even during the darkest periods of history, such as World War II, countless individuals chose to help those in need, demonstrating the power of compassion over cruelty. National Do Something Nice Day is not about grand gestures or taking risks—it’s about making small, positive changes in someone’s life. Scientific studies even show that acts of kindness release oxytocin, a hormone that helps reduce blood pressure and anxiety. In the end, good deeds tend to come back to us, like a boomerang.

Interesting Facts

• Albert Pike, an American poet, speaker, and lawyer, wrote: “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.”
• Kindness is “contagious” and often inspires others to pay it forward.
• Those who regularly help others are shown to be more resilient and strong-minded.
• Not all valuable gifts are financial—sometimes, a smile or a kind word is priceless.
• Even the smallest gesture can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

How to Take Part

Brighten someone’s day! Make kindness a habit, whether it’s something small like holding a door, helping carry groceries, or letting someone go ahead in line, or something bigger like giving compliments, listening to someone who feels lonely, becoming a supportive friend, treating someone to a coffee, inviting neighbors for a meal, or sending a thoughtful card or flowers. The possibilities are endless and only limited by your creativity and willingness.

When is Do Something Nice Day in 2025?

Do Something Nice Day is observed on October 5 each year.

Observations