National Boo Day

A group of friends wearing spooky costumes, surrounded by fog, in a haunted graveyard setting.. — National boo day illustration

Ah, National Boo Day! The day we celebrate all things spooky and give our friends a good scare. Whether you're a fan of horror movies, haunted houses, or just jumping out from behind doors to startle your loved ones, this is the day for you. So gather your boo crew and get ready for a ghoulishly good time!

When is Boo Day?

It's national boo day on the 14th February.

The History of National Boo Day

Now, you might be wondering how National Boo Day came to be. Well, let me take you on a supernatural journey through the internet's history.

It all started back on February 14, 2020, when the online world was abuzz with 290 mentions of National Boo Day. People from all walks of life were getting into the spirit of things and embracing the spooktacular celebration.

But why February 14th, you may ask? Well, what better day to celebrate all things boo-tiful than Valentine's Day? It's the perfect combination of love and scares!

How to Celebrate National Boo Day

Now that you know the origins of National Boo Day, it's time to plan your own hauntingly amazing celebration. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Organize a horror movie marathon with your friends and family. Don't forget the popcorn and the screams!
Create your own haunted house by transforming your home into a spooky spectacle. Just make sure to inform your guests to expect some frights!
Host a costume party and encourage everyone to dress up as their favorite spooky characters. Get ready to see some fabulous ghostly outfits!

Did You Know?

Here's a fun fact to give you the chills: Did you know that the tradition of saying 'Boo!' to scare someone dates back to the early 18th century? It's believed to have originated from the Scottish word 'boh,' which means to startle or frighten. So, the next time you scare your friends, you can now impress them with this historical nugget!

History behind the term 'Boo'

1800

The Birth of the Term 'Boo'

The term 'boo' as an expression of surprise or fright is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It is thought to have emerged from the folk tradition of using the word 'bo' to startle or scare. This simple sound evolved over time to become 'boo', a more recognizable and universally understood exclamation.

1897

Boo! A Terrifying Sound Emerges

In 1897, the term 'boo' gained popularity as an expression used to startle or frighten someone. Derived from the Scottish word 'boh' which means to startle, this interjection quickly became associated with the act of scaring someone. It caught on primarily due to its concise and impactful nature.

1897

Boo's Shifting Meaning in Comedy

In the late 19th century, 'boo' began to take on a new meaning in the realm of live theater. Audiences would shout 'boo' to express their disapproval of a performance or an actor's portrayal. It became a form of vocalized critique and even heckling. However, this negative connotation would later change.

20th Century

Boo! A Term of Endearment

Over time, 'boo' began to evolve and take on an additional meaning: a term of endearment. By expressing 'boo' to someone, it conveyed affection, love, and intimacy. This usage became especially popular in African American Vernacular English (AAVE). The term started to be used as a lighthearted nickname directed at close friends and romantic partners.

1950

Boo as a Term of Endearment

By the mid-20th century, 'boo' underwent a transformation in African American communities. It evolved to become a term of endearment, often used to refer to a romantic partner. This usage can be traced back to the jazz and blues music culture, where 'boo' was sung endearingly in popular songs. It embraced a sense of affection and closeness.

1990s

Boo! A Pet Name

In the 1990s, 'boo' took on another layer of meaning, becoming a common pet name used between couples. This endearing term was often used as an alternative to traditional pet names like 'honey' or 'sweetheart.' Its usage in popular culture, particularly in music and movies, further solidified 'boo' as a term of affection.

Social Media Era

Boo! The Digital Age

With the rise of social media, 'boo' experienced a resurgence in popularity. It became a widely used term of endearment on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. The brevity and simplicity of 'boo' made it perfect for the fast-paced digital communication of the modern age. It quickly spread beyond romantic relationships and extended to friendships as well.

1970

Boo: A Term in Hip-Hop and Pop Culture

'Boo' gained further prominence in the 1970s and later in hip-hop and pop culture. It became a popular slang term to refer to a girlfriend, boyfriend, or close friend. The term was used in lyrics and everyday conversations, highlighting its resonance and influence within contemporary music and entertainment.

2000

Boo: The Rise of Internet Memes

In the digital age, 'boo' took on a new life with the rise of internet memes. Memes featuring captions like 'I see you, boo' or 'You're my boo' became widely shared on social media platforms, expressing a blend of humor, affection, and admiration. 'Boo' found its way into popular culture as a playful term for a significant other or close companion.

Present Day

Boo! A Term of Support

Today, 'boo' has expanded its meanings even further. It is not only used as a term of endearment, but also as a way to show support and encouragement. People often use 'boo' to cheer on their favorite celebrities, athletes, or even friends during competitions or challenging times. It has become a versatile expression of love, encouragement, and camaraderie.