National Grouch Day

National Grouch Day is an annual holiday on October 15th, in honor of the beloved Sesame Street character, Oscar the Grouch. This day is all about celebrating the grumpy lifestyle and allowing people to express their grouchiness without judgment. It also serves as a reminder that it’s okay to take time to work through negative emotions.

History

National Grouch Day has been since at least 1976, though there is no specific origin for the holiday. It is about celebrating the life mission of a grumbler: to be as unhappy and grumpy as possible, while showing this state to others. Interestingly, there is actually scientific evidence that supports the idea that complaining can make life easier. While it’s not recommended to be a grumbler all the time, National Grouch Day gives people the chance to express their inner grouch by complaining about everyday things.

Interesting facts

• In 1969, Oscar the Grouch made his debut on Sesame Street.
• In 2005, Sesame Street had a parody of Donald Trump, featuring a character who had the most garbage and was constantly boasting about it.
• In 2013, Oscar the Grouch and Big Bird sang the hit song “I Love Trash” on The Colbert Report.

How to take part

To take part in National Grouch Day, feel free to give your inner grumbler free rein and express your annoyance with the little things in life. Share your terrible insults and cynical jokes online using the hashtag #NationalGrouchDay. Finally, be sure to watch some Sesame Street episodes—Oscar the Grouch is sure to amuse you!

When is National Grouch Day in 2024?

National Grouch Day is observed on October 15 each year.

Observations