National First Kiss Day

A young couple sharing their first kiss under a romantic starry sky, dressed in elegant attire, in a beautifully decorated garden.. — National first kiss day illustration

Ah, National First Kiss Day! A day dedicated to that magical moment when lips meet and sparks fly. Whether you're smooching your loved ones or stealing a quick peck from your furry pet, this day is all about celebrating the beauty of a first kiss. So, pucker up and let's dive into the captivating history of this lovable day.

When is First Kiss Day?

It's national first kiss day on the 14th February.

The Birth of National First Kiss Day

While the origins of National First Kiss Day remain a mystery, one thing is for sure: it's a day that brings joy and romance to countless people. The notion of celebrating first kisses is not a new one. People have been locking lips since, well, since lips were invented! But it was in recent years that the internet became enamored with the idea of setting aside a special day just for that unforgettable moment of a first kiss.

On February 14, 2016, the internet exploded with mentions of National First Kiss Day. Love was in the air, and people from all walks of life were caught up in the excitement. Social media was abuzz with heartwarming stories of first kisses, accompanied by adorable photos and hilarious tales of awkward lip-locking adventures.

Kissing Etiquette 101

Now, before you dive headfirst into a smooching frenzy, let's talk about some basic kissing etiquette. Remember, a good kiss is all about consent, respect, and making sure your breath doesn't knock your partner off their feet (in the wrong way).

1. Fresh Breath: Carry mints or a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste to keep your breath minty fresh. Your kissing partner will thank you!

2. Go Slow: Start with gentle, soft kisses and gauge your partner's response before ramping up the intensity. Nobody likes a face-eating monster on their first kiss.

3. Hands-On (or Off): Keep your hands respectful and avoid any unwanted groping. Save the full-on exploration for when you both are ready.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first kiss isn't fireworks-worthy. It's all about learning and growing together.

History behind the term 'First Kiss'

15 BC

Ancient Rome: The First Recorded Kiss

The concept of a 'first kiss' can be traced back to Ancient Rome, where kissing was seen as a social bonding ritual. In 15 BC, the Roman poet Ovid wrote about the first recorded kiss in his famous poem 'Ars Amatoria,' which translates to 'The Art of Love.' This poem described the act of kissing in detail and emphasized its importance in relationships.

13th Century

The Development of Courtly Love

During the 13th century, the concept of courtly love emerged in European literature and culture. Courtly love was a social and romantic ideal that emphasized chivalry, admiration, and longing. The exchange of kisses, especially the first kiss between lovers, became an essential element of courtly love. Poets and troubadours of the time often wrote about the significance and anticipation of the first kiss in their works.

19th Century

Rise of Romanticism and the First Kiss in Literature

The Romantic era in the 19th century further popularized the idea of the first kiss. Romantic literature, such as novels and poetry, often depicted the moment of the first kiss as a highly emotional and transformative experience. Famous literary works like 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen and 'Romeo and Juliet' by William Shakespeare further cemented the cultural importance of the first kiss as a symbol of love and passion.

20th Century

The First Kiss in Film

The advent of cinema in the 20th century brought the first kiss to the silver screen. One of the earliest notable depictions of a first kiss in film history can be found in the 1922 silent film 'Nosferatu.' Over the years, countless films have portrayed the anticipation, nervousness, and magic of a first kiss, making it a recurring and cherished theme in cinema.

21st Century

First Kiss in the Digital Age

With the rise of social media and online dating, the concept of the first kiss has taken on a new dimension in the 21st century. Individuals can now connect virtually, building relationships and sharing their first kiss experiences on platforms like YouTube, creating a unique digital archive of first kiss moments. Additionally, dating apps and websites have facilitated meetings between individuals, changing the landscape of how the first kiss occurs in modern society.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world record for the longest kiss lasted for a mind-boggling 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds? Now, that's what you call dedication! Just imagine having to explain to your boss why you were absent for three straight days. Awkward!