Hurray for Buttons Day

Hurray for Buttons Day is an annual American holiday created in honor of buttons. These small items with several holes for threads are attached to clothing or bags, sewn on, and act as fasteners. It falls on May 9. On this day, we also celebrate badges made of metal or plastic, which have a similar design and are used for decoration or as identifying symbols.

History

The story of Hurray for Buttons Day begins with an initiative by *Hobbies Magazine*, a print publication. It launched a hobby show where people could share their accomplishments and present their hobbies. Some participants displayed a collection of buttons, which led to the creation of this unique holiday. Fans of button collecting also celebrate the holiday!

Buttons are mostly round, though they can also be square, oval, or other shapes. Different materials can be used for their manufacture, but most commonly, we find plastic and metal products. Buttons have been used as fasteners since the 1400s and eventually spread across Europe. Another related fastener, the buttonhole, is believed to have been invented by weavers in Germany.

Interesting Facts

• During excavations in the Indus Valley, a 7,000-year-old button made from a seashell was discovered.
• In 1844, a special uniform was introduced for New York City police officers, featuring brass buttons as a distinguishing feature.
• Older buttons could withstand a load of about 2-4 kg, but modern buttons often come off with a load of just 500 grams or less.

How to Celebrate

Visit button shows today if you can. Buy yourself some new buttons or sew-on badges. You can also buy new clothes with buttons.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask your followers: Do you have a lot of things with buttons?

When is Hurray for Buttons Day in 2025?

Hurray for Buttons Day is observed on May 9 each year.

Observations