National Twist Day

A joyful group of people dancing, wearing colorful twist patterned clothing, in a vibrant carnival setting.. — National twist day illustration

Hey there, twist enthusiasts! Get ready to spin, turn, and rotate because National Twist Day is here to add some twist-tastic excitement to your day. Whether you're a dancer, a pretzel lover, or just enjoy twisting things around, this special day is all about embracing the twist in every aspect of your life. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a delicious pretzel, and let's dive into the fascinating history and celebration of National Twist Day!

When is Twist Day?

It's national twist day on the 20th September.

The Origin of National Twist Day

Have you ever wondered how this quirky holiday came to be? Well, hold on tight because I'm about to unravel the twisted tale of its origin.

Back in the early days of the internet, a group of friends who loved dancing and indulging in scrumptious pretzels realized there was a lack of appreciation for the art of twisting. They felt that the twist deserved its own special day, where people could come together to honor this unique movement and indulge in all things twisted.

After much brainstorming and a few spins on the dance floor, they decided to designate September 20th as National Twist Day. The date was chosen to pay homage to the legendary Chubby Checker, the singer who popularized the twist dance craze in the early 1960s with his hit song 'The Twist.'

How to Celebrate National Twist Day

Now that you know the origin story, it's time to shake things up and celebrate National Twist Day in style! Here are a few fun and twisty ideas to get you started:

Host a Twist Dance Party: Gather your friends, turn up some classic twist tunes, and get your twist on! Don't worry if you're not a pro dancer—the beauty of the twist is that anyone can join in and have a blast. Just let loose and twist away!
Pretzel-Making Extravaganza: Get in the kitchen and try your hand at making homemade pretzels. Twist, shape, and bake your way to mouthwatering pretzel perfection. And of course, don't forget to enjoy the fruits of your labor with a side of mustard or cheese dip!
Twist Your Words: Challenge your friends to a game of 'Twist Your Words.' Take turns twisting common sayings or phrases by replacing a word with a twist-themed word. It's a hilarious way to flex your creative muscles and keep everyone laughing.

Fun Twisty Fact

Did you know that the twist dance craze sparked a worldwide phenomenon? People from all corners of the globe were twisting, shaking, and grooving to the beat. The twist became so popular that even astronauts aboard the Gemini spacecraft did the twist in space! Talk about taking the dance to new heights!

History behind the term 'Twist'

19th century

Step 1 - Brewing in the Dance Halls

In the 19th century, a dance style known as the waltz gained popularity across Europe. People would gather in dance halls to enjoy this new form of couple dancing. However, some dancers felt the need to add their own individual style and improvisation to the waltz. This led to the birth of a new dance move known as the 'twist,' in which dancers would rotate their hips and torsos in a distinctive manner.

1959

Step 2 - The Birth of a Music Hit

In 1959, a musical artist named Hank Ballard and his band, The Midnighters, recorded a song called 'The Twist.' The song had a catchy beat and featured lyrics that encouraged listeners to dance the twist. Although the song didn't gain much initial popularity, it laid the foundation for what would become a worldwide dance sensation.

Early 1960s

Step 3 - Chubby Checker Makes the Twist Famous

In the early 1960s, a young singer named Chubby Checker recorded a cover of 'The Twist.' His version of the song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and introducing the twist to a wider audience. Chubby Checker's energetic performances and iconic dance moves popularized the twist dance even further. It became a sensation not just in the United States, but around the world.

1961

Step 4 - Twist Mania Takes Over

In 1961, a Twist dance craze took over the world. People of all ages and backgrounds were caught up in the twist mania. Dance parties, television shows, and even movies featured twist performances. The dance became synonymous with youth culture and rebellion, breaking free from the more rigid dance styles of the past.

1988

Step 5 - The Twist Still Lives On

Even decades after its initial popularity, the twist continues to be a beloved dance style. It is often featured in retro-themed events, bringing together generations to enjoy the timeless moves. The influence of the twist can also be seen in other dance styles, such as the disco era's hustle and modern-day hip-hop moves. The twist truly left an indelible mark on dance culture.