What is National Above the Bus Day?
National Above the Bus Day, observed annually on October 5, is a day dedicated to celebrating acts of kindness, appreciation, and recognition. It flips the negative phrase “throw under the bus” into something positive by encouraging people to lift others up through compliments, advocacy, and acknowledgment of their achievements.
Quick Facts
- When is it? October 5
- Tagged as: Kindness, Appreciation, Positivity
- What’s the hashtag? #AboveTheBusDay
- When was it founded? 2021
- Who founded it? Evan Wildstein
History of National Above the Bus Day
The day was created in September 2021 by writer and comedian Evan Wildstein. Inspired by the phrase “throw under the bus,” Wildstein sought to create a counter-narrative that focuses on uplifting others. October 5 was chosen as it coincides with National Do Something Nice Day, further emphasizing kindness and positivity.
The phrase “throw under the bus” originated in the 1980s to describe betrayal. National Above the Bus Day reimagines this by encouraging people to celebrate unsung heroes in their lives—be it coworkers, friends, or family.
Timeline
- 1980s: The phrase “throw under the bus” is first used.
- October 5: National Do Something Nice Day is established.
- 2021: Evan Wildstein creates National Above the Bus Day.
- 2022: The first official celebration of this day takes place.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 5 | Sunday |
| 2026 | October 5 | Monday |
| 2027 | October 5 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | October 5 | Thursday |
| 2029 | October 5 | Friday |
| 2030 | October 5 | Saturday |
Observed
National Above the Bus Day is observed through acts of kindness and recognition. People celebrate by:
- Complimenting colleagues or loved ones.
- Advocating for someone who needs support.
- Sharing positive stories about others on social media using #AboveTheBusDay.
Fun Facts About National Above the Bus Day
- It aligns with National Do Something Nice Day for double positivity!
- The phrase “throw under the bus” was originally a metaphor for betrayal but has now inspired kindness through this day.
- The day encourages even small gestures like sending a thoughtful text or buying someone coffee.
Quiz
- Who founded National Above the Bus Day? (Answer: Evan Wildstein)
- When is National Above the Bus Day celebrated? (Answer: October 5)
- What is its primary focus? (Answer: Kindness and recognition)
FAQs
Q: How can I celebrate National Above the Bus Day?
A: You can celebrate by recognizing someone’s achievements, offering compliments, or advocating for someone who needs support.
Q: Why was October 5 chosen for this day?
A: It coincides with National Do Something Nice Day, amplifying its message of kindness.
Q: Can I celebrate this day at work?
A: Absolutely! Acknowledge a colleague’s hard work or perform a kind gesture to make their day better.
Importance of National Above the Bus Day
This day fosters a culture of empathy and positivity in workplaces, communities, and families. By recognizing others’ contributions, it strengthens relationships and promotes mental well-being.
Related
- National Do Something Nice Day (October 5)
- Random Acts of Kindness Week (February)
- World Kindness Day (November 13)