National Pom Day

A cheerful young person with voluminous hair, wearing a colorful cheerleading outfit, surrounded by vibrant pom-poms.. — National pom day illustration

Get ready to fluff up your hair and bust out the hairspray, because it's time to celebrate National Pom Day! This quirky holiday is all about embracing the bouncy and energetic spirit of pom-poms. Whether you're a cheerleader, a crafter, or just someone with a penchant for fluffy things, National Pom Day is the perfect occasion to let your pom-poms fly.

When is Pom Day?

It's national pom day on the 26th March.

The Origins of National Pom Day

While the exact origins of National Pom Day are shrouded in fuzzy mystery, we can trace the love for pom-poms back to ancient times. The earliest known pom-poms were discovered in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, showcasing the enduring charm of these whimsical accessories.

Fast forward to the modern era, and pom-poms have become a staple in various realms of life. Cheerleaders have been waving their pom-poms with pride for decades, adding an extra dose of spirit to every game. Crafters and DIY enthusiasts have also embraced these fluffy orbs, using them to create everything from colorful garlands to quirky keychains.

How to Celebrate National Pom Day

If you're ready to join in on the pom-pom fun, here are a few ways to celebrate National Pom Day:

Cheer on your favorite sports team: Whether you're at the game or watching from home, grab a pair of pom-poms and show your support.
Get crafty: Grab some yarn, scissors, and a pom-pom maker (or just use your hands) to create your own fluffy masterpieces.
Rock the pom-pom fashion: Embrace your inner fashionista and incorporate pom-poms into your outfit. From earrings to shoes, there's a pom-pom accessory for every style.
Spread joy with pom-pom gifts: Surprise your loved ones with homemade pom-pom gifts. Who wouldn't appreciate a cute keychain or a cozy pom-pom blanket?

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest pom-pom ever made measured a whopping 17 feet in diameter? Talk about a big fluffy ball of fun!

History behind the term 'Pom'

1912

Origin of the term 'pom'

The term 'pom' originated in Australia in 1912 as a slang term used to refer to British immigrants, particularly those who had emigrated from England. It is believed to be derived from the fruit 'pomegranate,' which is commonly associated with the color red. The term was initially used humorously to describe the pale complexions of the British immigrants compared to the sun-kissed Australians. However, over time, it evolved into a more general term for British people regardless of their complexion.

1967

Rise in popularity during the Ashes series

The popularity of the term 'pom' grew significantly during the 1967 Ashes series, a prestigious cricket tournament held between England and Australia. The Australian media widely used the term to describe the English cricketers, further popularizing it among the public. The term became synonymous with English cricket and was often used playfully to create a sense of rivalry between the two cricketing nations. It also became a part of the cultural lexicon, with 'pom' being used to refer to any English person, not just cricket players.

1970s

Incorporation in Cockney rhyming slang

During the 1970s, the term 'pom' found its way into Cockney rhyming slang, a distinctive form of English slang popular in East London. In Cockney rhyming slang, 'pommy' or 'pom' was used to refer to a British person, rhyming with the phrase 'pommy shower' which stands for 'hour.' This usage further added to the cultural significance of the term, firmly cementing it in British and Australian vernaculars.

1991

Formal acknowledgment in the Australian National Dictionary

In 1991, the term 'pom' was formally acknowledged in the Australian National Dictionary. The dictionary recognized 'pom' as an Australian term for a British person, tracing its origins to the early 1900s. This acknowledgment solidified the term's cultural significance and established it as an enduring part of Australian slang.

Present

Continued usage and modern connotations

Today, the term 'pom' is still widely used in Australia and other English-speaking countries, albeit with a more light-hearted and playful tone. While it can still carry some historical connotations, it is generally used without any malice or offense. The term has become a part of the cultural exchange between England and Australia, representing the enduring relationship and friendly rivalry between the two nations.