National Joy Day

A group of diverse people in brightly colored clothing, dancing and laughing in a sunny park, surrounded by balloons and confetti.. — National joy day illustration

Get ready to jump for joy because it's National Joy Day! This special day is all about celebrating happiness, laughter, and all things that bring us unbridled joy. So put on your happy pants, turn up the happiness dial, and let's dive into the cheerful world of National Joy Day!

When is Joy Day?

It's national joy day on the 17th November.

The Origins of National Joy Day

Just like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day, National Joy Day emerged from the depths of the internet to spread joy far and wide. Although we couldn't locate its exact online birthplace, we can tell you that it gained popularity on November 17, 2020, with a whopping 28 online mentions. Since then, it has become an annual celebration of joy. It's a day where people come together to revel in the simple pleasures that make life brighter.

How to Celebrate

Now, you might be wondering how to fully embrace the spirit of National Joy Day. Well, fear not! We have some delightful suggestions for you:

Gather your loved ones and engage in activities that make you all giggle like little kids again.
Indulge in your favorite foods because, let's face it, joy and deliciousness go hand in hand.
Get active and play some sports. Joy can be found in the thrill of competition and the joy of teamwork.
Take a moment to reflect on happy memories and create new ones to cherish.
Spread joy and awareness by supporting causes that bring happiness to others.

A Fun Fact to Brighten Your Day!

Did you know that research has shown laughter can boost your immune system, decrease stress levels, and even make you more attractive? So, it's not just a cliché when they say laughter is the best medicine – it's science!

History behind the term 'Joy'

13th century

The Birth of 'Joy'

The term 'joy' can be traced back to the 13th century, derived from the Old French word 'joie'. It originally referred to a feeling of great happiness or pleasure, often associated with a sense of delight or bliss. During this time, 'joy' was used to express a wide range of positive emotions and experiences.

14th century

Religious Connotations

In the 14th century, 'joy' acquired significant religious connotations. It became closely linked to spiritual and religious celebrations, particularly within Christianity. Joy was seen as a desirable state of mind and a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It was celebrated as a divine gift and was often associated with the happiness derived from a strong faith and connection to God.

18th century

The Age of Enlightenment

During the 18th century, known as the Age of Enlightenment, 'joy' took on a new dimension. It became associated with the pursuit of personal happiness and the idea that individuals were entitled to experience joy in their lives. Philosophers and thinkers of the time, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, emphasized the importance of personal happiness and well-being as a fundamental human right.

19th century

Joy in Literature

The 19th century witnessed a proliferation of 'joy' in literature and art. Many renowned authors and poets, including William Wordsworth, Emily Dickinson, and Walt Whitman, explored the concept of joy in their works. It became a recurring theme, often depicted as a source of inspiration, beauty, and fulfillment. Their writings contributed to the popularization and romanticization of joy as a profound and transformative experience.

20th century

Joy as a Cultural Phenomenon

In the 20th century, 'joy' became a cultural phenomenon. The pursuit of joy and happiness became embedded in popular culture, manifested in songs, films, and advertisements. The term became synonymous with celebration, positive experiences, and moments of pure happiness. 'Joy' also became associated with the idea of spreading happiness and sharing moments of joy with others, as seen in the rise of global events like International Day of Happiness.