National Kiss Your Mate Day

Happy couple in a scenic outdoor setting, dressed in casual attire, sharing a tender kiss.. — National kiss your mate day illustration

You know how they say actions speak louder than words? Well, on National Kiss Your Mate Day, you get to do just that! This day proudly sits on the calendar every year, urging lovebirds to showcase their love, not by articulate 'I Love Yous' but through the slightly more fun task of sending across sweet, passionate kisses! We promise, it's actually a thing!

When is Kiss Your Mate Day?

It's national kiss your mate day on the 28th April.

History of the National Kiss Your Mate Day

This piece of online whimsy first found its way onto our calendars somewhere in the deep, boundless universe of the internet. While it's precise inception remains as mysterious as the Mona Lisa's smile, what we know is that its online popularity has been growing year upon year, reaching its peak popularity on April 28th, 2018, with a whopping 435 mentions!

The Art of Celebrating the Day

So, how should one go about celebrating this national day, you ask? It's as complex as a peck on the cheek, or as layered as a full-blown Hollywood-style smooch. Sweep your mate off their feet, or catch them off guard in the morning with a surprise kiss. The more kisses, the merrier the day.

Why is it crucial to celebrate?

Well, to be completely honest, we doubt anyone needs a reason to pucker up. But if you’re the type that likes to intellectualise love, how about we look at it this way? Kissing is a universal language. A soft kiss on the forehead can signal comfort, a peck on the cheek signifies fondness, and a passionate lip lock...well, we're trying to keep things PG-13, so let's say it represents profound love.

Final Words

You don’t need a special day to show your love, but if there's already one on the calendar, why waste it? So, go ahead and plan some surprises, and remember, sometimes a kiss can say what words cannot. Let's give a round of applause for the lovely National Kiss Your Mate Day!

History behind the term 'Kiss Your Mate'

1800s

The Birth of the Term

During the 1800s, the term 'kiss your mate' was first introduced as a colloquial phrase. It was derived from the act of kissing one's romantic partner or spouse. The term gained popularity among couples as a way to express affection and love for their significant other. It soon became synonymous with romantic relationships and was widely used in literature, poetry, and everyday conversation.

1896

The Modern Valentine's Day Kiss

The tradition of kissing one's mate on Valentine's Day began in 1896. This gesture of affection was popularized by the rise of mass-produced Valentine's Day cards, which often featured images of couples locked in a loving embrace. The kiss became a symbol of love and romance, and couples started exchanging kisses as a way to express their affection on this special day.

1400s

The Origin of the Term Kiss

The term 'kiss' traces its origins back to the 1400s in Middle English. It evolved from the Old English word 'cyssan,' which meant 'to touch or press with the lips.' Kissing was a common form of greeting and affectionate gesture in various cultures, including ancient Roman, Greek, and Egyptian societies. It symbolized love, respect, and social bonding.

1700s

Romantic Kissing in Literature

During the 1700s, romantic literature and poetry further popularized the act of kissing. Romantic poets like William Shakespeare, Lord Byron, and John Keats often used descriptions of kisses as a symbol of passion, desire, and intimacy. Kissing became associated with courtship and expressions of romantic love.

1920s

The Roaring Twenties

In the 1920s, the term 'kiss your mate' experienced a surge in popularity, particularly in Western cultures. This was a time of social change and liberation, characterized by the newfound freedom of expression. Kissing became more openly celebrated and embraced as a symbol of love and romance. The term 'kiss your mate' became even more entrenched in the public lexicon, appearing in songs, movies, and advertisements.

1929

The First On-Screen Kiss

In 1929, the advent of sound in movies led to a groundbreaking moment in cinematic history. The film 'The Marriage Playground' featured the first-ever on-screen kiss between consenting adults. This kiss, which lasted a mere three seconds, caused quite a stir among audiences at the time. The portrayal of intimate moments on the silver screen helped to further normalize the act of kissing, including between romantic partners.

1800s

Pucker Up: The Term 'Kiss' Gains Popularity

The 1800s marked a significant rise in the popularity of the term 'kiss' as more people began using it in everyday conversation. It became an essential part of the English language, finding its way into common sayings and phrases. The act of kissing became increasingly associated with affection, romance, and emotional connection.

1950s

Kissing in Post-War America

Following the end of World War II in the 1940s, the 1950s in America saw a resurgence of traditional values and the idealized nuclear family. The term 'kiss your mate' became associated with the idealized image of the perfect married couple and symbolized the harmony and affection within a relationship. This post-war era promoted the idea of stable, monogamous marriages, and kissing one's mate was seen as a way to reinforce that commitment.

1951

The Hollywood Kiss

The term 'kiss your mate' gained significant popularity in 1951 with the release of the Hollywood film 'An American in Paris.' This movie starred Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron in a charming love story set in the city of love itself, Paris. Their passionate, ballet-inspired dance routine culminated in a mesmerizing kiss, which became an iconic moment in cinema history. The film's success further solidified the act of kissing as a symbol of pure romance.

1960s

Love and Counterculture

The 1960s brought about a significant cultural shift, with the rise of counterculture and the hippie movement. This era embraced free love, personal expression, and challenging societal norms. The term 'kiss your mate' took on a broader meaning, representing love, freedom, and connection with others. It became a way to showcase affection for not only romantic partners but also friends, family, and even strangers, as a symbol of unity and togetherness.

1977

The Kiss Cam Phenomenon

The term 'kiss your mate' took on a new meaning in 1977 with the introduction of the 'Kiss Cam' during sporting events. This innovative concept involved a camera scanning the crowd and focusing on couples, encouraging them to share a kiss on the jumbotron for all to see. The Kiss Cam quickly became an entertaining and heartwarming tradition, capturing countless sweet moments between couples and spreading the joy of love throughout stadiums and arenas.

1900s

Kiss Your Mate: A Popular Expression

In the 1900s, the phrase 'kiss your mate' emerged as a playful and endearing expression. It encouraged people in romantic relationships to show their love and affection by sharing a kiss with their partner. The expression gained popularity through various forms of media, such as movies, songs, and literature, solidifying its place in popular culture.

Present

Kiss Your Mate National Day

In recent years, the term 'kiss your mate' has become associated with a special annual celebration called 'Kiss Your Mate Day,' observed on a national level. This day reminds couples of the importance of maintaining love and intimacy in their relationships. It encourages couples to take a moment to express their affection by sharing a memorable kiss with their significant other.

Present Day

Continued Significance

In the present day, the term 'kiss your mate' remains a widely recognized phrase that embodies the timeless act of showing love and affection to one's partner. It has transcended generations and cultural boundaries, evolving alongside societal changes. While its meaning may vary from person to person, 'kiss your mate' continues to foster intimacy, strengthen relationships, and serve as a symbol of tenderness and passion.

2010

International Kissing Day

In 2010, the concept of 'kiss your mate' expanded globally with the establishment of International Kissing Day. Celebrated on July 6th each year, this day aims to promote the power of the kiss in nurturing relationships and sharing affection. It serves as a reminder to cherish the small moments of intimacy and connection with our loved ones. People around the world now participate in this celebration by giving their mates an extra special kiss.

Did you know?

Did you know? A single passionate kiss can burn 2 to 3 calories. So, on National Kiss Your Mate Day, not only are you spreading love, but you're also keeping fit!