National Nothing Day

National Nothing Day is an American holiday that gives everyone permission to turn laziness from a vice into a celebration. Why keep busy all the time? Sometimes, it’s important to pause, relax, and unwind—and that’s exactly what this day is for. National Nothing Day is observed every year on January 16.

History

National Nothing Day was created by journalist Harold Pullman Coffin, who proposed that people should have one day each year dedicated to doing absolutely nothing. The holiday has been celebrated annually on January 16 ever since.

How you choose to celebrate is entirely up to you. The idea is to let go of work, routines, or any responsibilities for the day. Whether you prefer quiet relaxation or your favorite hobby, National Nothing Day is a chance to enjoy life on your own terms.

Take a break from the daily grind and enjoy the feeling of freedom. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole day in bed or on the couch watching TV (unless you want to). You might devote the time to self-care, a personal interest, or simply doing nothing at all. The choice is yours!

Interesting Facts

• Laziness at work often arises when people have to do monotonous or uninteresting tasks. Routine is a common cause of low motivation and mood.
• National Nothing Day, as established by Coffin, is a great way to relax, find harmony with yourself, and give your nervous system a much-needed rest.
• Coffin also created the “National Nothing Foundation”—but don’t expect to find out more, as there isn’t even a website for it!

How to Take Part

As mentioned, you can devote this day to relaxation, self-care, or your favorite pastime. National Nothing Day is also a fun way to test your own endurance—see if you can spend the day lounging, not saying a word, or resisting the urge to check your phone.

Share the holiday on social media and ask others how they plan to celebrate National Nothing Day. You might get some creative ideas—or inspire someone else to take a well-deserved break!

When is National Nothing Day in 2026?

National Nothing Day is observed on January 16 each year.

Observations