National Pack Rat Day

National Pack Rat Day is an American holiday dedicated to hoarding. It highlights a problematic trait—people feel reluctant to part with items that are already useless or unnecessary. As a result, their homes, sheds, or garages can become cluttered with various objects. The holiday is observed annually on May 17.

History

The origins of National Pack Rat Day are unclear. It may have been created by psychologists or simply by individuals who grew tired of seeing the chaos caused by hoarding.

Hoarding isn’t just a human characteristic; it can also be a sign of deeper psychological issues, such as withdrawal, fear of change, and anxiety. Experts in psychology and psychotherapy suggest that hoarding can be a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This disorder is characterized by intrusive thoughts and desires that individuals cannot control.

Interesting facts

• The Russian writer Nikolai Gogol’s “Dead Souls” (in Russian: “Мертвые души”) includes a famous case of hoarding. The character Plyushkin cannot part with his belongings, money, or even food, leading to accumulation in his basement.
• Research has linked hoarding to obesity. People who struggle to let go of their old things are more likely to be overweight.
• Psychotherapists believe that ignoring hoarding can lead to depression, as living in constant clutter can create ongoing stress.

How to celebrate

Use this day to do a deep cleaning and take inventory of items in your shed or garage. If you’re reluctant to throw away old things, consider selling them on the secondary market, or donate unwanted clothing in good condition to shelters or secondhand stores.

Share information about the holiday on social media. Ask users if they have a habit of hoarding.

When is National Pack Rat Day in 2025?

National Pack Rat Day is observed on May 17 each year.

Observations