In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic on May 4, 2022, one household found solace in an unusual way—by celebrating Star Wars Day with themed food and a movie marathon. As uncertainty loomed, the simple joy of baking a Sarlacc-shaped bundt cake and pulling a BB-8 pizza from the oven provided a welcome escape from the heaviness of daily life.
This personal experience underscores a broader concept: obscure holidays, often dismissed as trivial, can serve as bright spots in the routine of daily life. While some may see these unofficial celebrations as frivolous, they offer a way to inject fun, structure, and anticipation into otherwise predictable schedules.
Psychologist Marty Nemko, writing for Psychology Today, emphasizes the importance of having something to look forward to as a way to maintain mental well-being.
“One tactic that my clients have found helpful is rather simple: Just think of something you are looking forward to,” Nemko stated. “Or if you cannot think of anything, think of something you could do that you would look forward to.”
For enthusiasts of themed activities, niche holidays offer a built-in way to create moments of enjoyment. A quick look at holiday databases like National Today and Holiday Insights reveals a vast array of unusual observances beyond well-known celebrations like Easter and St. Patrick’s Day.
Among the more unexpected observances is Talk Like William Shakespeare Day, marked on either March 22 or April 23. For those who embrace the spirit of the Bard, the day presents an opportunity to craft sonnets or engage in witty repartee in Elizabethan English.
Other quirky holidays include Alien Abduction Day on March 20 and No Housework Day on April 7, both of which lend themselves to creative interpretations—whether through a sci-fi movie night or a well-earned day off from chores.
Food-related holidays offer an easy way to partake in the fun with minimal effort. For example, March 23 is National Chip and Dip Day, while April 2 marks Peanut Butter and Jelly Day. A simple visit to a favorite restaurant or a nostalgic lunch can transform an ordinary day into a small celebration.
For journalists and media professionals, April 4 presents an amusing challenge: Hug a Newsperson Day. While not everyone may be inclined to embrace the tradition literally, the day serves as a lighthearted nod to the work of reporters and editors.
And for those who find existing holidays lacking, March 26 brings Make Up Your Own Holiday Day—an invitation to craft a personalized celebration.
Ultimately, obscure holidays offer more than just a reason to be festive; they remind people to find joy in the little things and embrace the unexpected. As the pressures of work, school, and daily obligations build, taking a moment to recognize a playful holiday can provide a much-needed mental reset. Whether by indulging in a themed activity or simply marking the day with a small treat, these unofficial observances serve as reminders that fun and relaxation are worth prioritizing—even in the busiest of times.
